GMAT Focus Edition updates: What's new and how to register?
Steve Keating
Registration dates for the new GMAT Focus Edition
Recently the test makers announced that you can take the new GMAT Focus Edition exam from November 7th, 2023. The test will be available from that date at test centers and for online testing at a location of your choice. Registration for the new test is now open. You can still take the old GMAT until 31st January 2024.
A free practice test is also available on the official GMAT website using the button below.
GMAT exam updates: What has changed in the GMAT exam format?
Remember that there have been some significant changes from the old GMAT test.
Sentence correction, geometry and the essay have been eliminated.
Coordinate geometry remains, as it is considered part of algebra.
There are three sections – quant, verbal and data insights. All contribute equally to your score.
Quant is now just problem solving. These are multiple-choice questions. You have 5 options.
Verbal is now just reading comprehension and critical reasoning.
Data insights consists of data sufficiency and integrated reasoning. Data sufficiency has been modified so that it is no longer a test of pure math concepts, and has become more of an English exercise. There is no longer a need for complicated mathematical calculations. An understanding of the question and the two statements should be enough to get you to the right answer, without having to calculate much.
Another change in the GMAT Focus Edition is that you can review as many questions as you like, and can change up to 3 answers per section. I’m not sure how useful this will actually be, as there is significant time pressure in the testing situation. This may not allow you the time to revisit questions you have already attempted.
Why not streamline your GMAT prep by taking a trial lesson with an experienced GMAT tutor?
Further reading:
5 hacks from a GMAT expert. I’ve been teaching the GMAT for many years and have taken the test myself. Students often ask me what my favourite tips for the GMAT are. Check out my 5 hacks for cracking the GMAT exam here!