Choosing Between Current GMAT and GMAT Focus Edition: A Guide

If you’re navigating the decision between the current GMAT and the newly introduced GMAT Focus Edition, this guide aims to provide clarity on when, why, and how to make the right choice for your GMAT exam. Let’s break down the key considerations:

In this Blog:

Which GMAT Should I Take?

Will B-schools Still Accept Old GMAT Scores in 2024 and Later?

When to Register for GMAT Focus Edition?

What’s New and What Has Changed?

What Should I Study for GMAT Focus?

Will It Be Easier to Score Higher in GMAT Focus Than the Old GMAT?

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between GMAT and GMAT Focus:

I’m Applying in 2023. Which GMAT Should I Take?

• If you’re already in the midst of GMAT preparation, continue with the current GMAT.
• The content and question types overlap between the two versions, ensuring your preparation remains relevant.
• For applications due in autumn 2023, stick to the current GMAT as it will be available until early 2024.
• Test-takers planning to apply in 2024 and beyond should opt for the new GMAT Focus Edition as course materials will be updated accordingly.

Will B-schools Still Accept Old GMAT Scores in 2024 and Later?

• Yes, B-schools will continue to accept both old GMAT scores and scores from the new GMAT Focus Edition.
• GMAT scores are valid for five years after the test date, providing flexibility for applicants.

When to Register for GMAT Focus Edition?

• Registrations for GMAT Focus Edition start from August 29, 2023.
• Test appointments can be scheduled from the fourth quarter of 2023 (October onwards) and beyond.
• Practice materials for GMAT Focus are already available as of June 6.

What’s New and What Has Changed?

• Duration: GMAT Focus Edition is shorter, with a duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes compared to the current GMAT’s 3 hours and 7 minutes.
• Sections: GMAT Focus Edition has three sections, excluding Analytical Writing. Current GMAT has four sections.
• Question Type: GMAT Focus Edition comprises all multiple-choice questions, eliminating the essay. Current GMAT includes both multiple-choice questions and an essay.
• Evaluation: GMAT Focus provides a single unified score, while the current GMAT offers three different scores.
• Score Range: GMAT Focus has a score range of 205-805, compared to the current GMAT’s 200-800.
• Flexibility: GMAT Focus allows for modifying, bookmarking, and reviewing questions, with the option to change up to three answers per section.

What Should I Study for GMAT Focus?

• GMAT Focus Edition assesses critical reasoning and data literacy skills.
• The syllabus includes three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
• While certain elements like Analytical Writing, Sentence Correction, and Geometry have been omitted, overall test-taking strategies remain crucial.

Will It Be Easier to Score Higher in GMAT Focus Than the Old GMAT?

• Unlikely. The nature of evaluation remains based on ability, maintaining competitiveness between the two versions.
• Thorough and meticulous preparation is essential for success in either version.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between GMAT and GMAT Focus:

• Application Deadlines: Your application deadline will influence the choice between the standard GMAT and GMAT Focus.
• Current Test Preparedness: Assess your readiness for the current GMAT and whether a shift to GMAT Focus aligns with your preparation.
• Disruption to Delay Your GMAT Test: Consider whether switching to GMAT Focus would disrupt your current preparation plan or if it aligns with your goals.

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