GMAT Exam 2023: Dates, Registration, Syllabus, Pattern, Eligibility Criteria » Navigating the New GRE Format vs GMAT Focus Edition

Navigating the New GRE Format vs GMAT Focus Edition

As of September 2023, the GRE General Test has undergone substantial changes, ushering in a revamped format with a shortened testing duration of just under 2 hours. Simultaneously, GMAC has introduced the GMAT Focus Edition. This blog aims to provide clarity on the distinctions between the new GRE exam and the GMAT Focus Edition, offering a section-wise breakdown and comparative insights.

Here is a brief outline of the article:  

Changes in the New GRE Exam:

New GRE Format 2023

GMAT Focus vs Shorter GRE: Questions and Time

Shorter GRE vs GMAT Focus: Key Differences

Conclusion

Changes in the New GRE Exam:

  • Duration: Reduced from nearly 4 hours to 1 hour and 58 minutes.
  • Sections: Analytical Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.
  • Elimination: The unscored portion and scheduled break have been eliminated.
  • Score Delivery: Accelerated, with anticipated results within 8-10 calendar days.

New GRE Format 2023:

  • Analytical Writing: 1 essay task in 30 minutes.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections with a total of 27 questions in 47 minutes.
  • Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections with a total of 27 questions in 41 minutes.
  • Total Time: 1 hour and 58 minutes.

GMAT Focus vs Shorter GRE: Questions and Time:

Sections Shorter GRE GMAT Focus Edition
Analytical Writing 1 essay task in 30 minutes –
Quantitative Reasoning 27 questions in 47 minutes 21 questions in 45 minutes
Verbal Reasoning 27 questions in 41 minutes 23 questions in 45 minutes
Data Insights – 20 questions in 45 minutes
Total – 2 hours, 15 minutes

Shorter GRE vs GMAT Focus: Key Differences:

Feature Shorter GRE GMAT Focus Edition
Registration Dates Launched on September 22, 2023. Registration open for test dates on or after September 22. Launching in Q4 2023, registration opens on August 29.
Content Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights.
Test Length 1 hour, 58 minutes. 2 hours, 15 minutes.
Fees $220 (varies by location). Pricing varies but generally ranges from $250-$275 to test at a center and $275-$300 to test at home.
Score Reports Four included with fees, additional reports at $30 each. Five included with fees, additional reports at $35 each.
Test Experience Flexibility to move around, answer questions in chosen order, and change answers without limits. Questions must be answered in the order received, with a limited ability to change answers.
Score Penalty for Unanswered Questions No penalty for unanswered questions. Penalty for unanswered questions.
Official Scores Typically within 8-10 calendar days. Typically within 7 business days.
Score Options for Multiple Tests Can send scores to schools from Most Recent, All, or Any specific test administration. Official Score Report includes all exams taken in the past five years.

Conclusion:

Choosing between the shorter GRE and GMAT Focus Edition depends on your preferences, application deadlines, and individual test-taking characteristics. Consider factors like test format, question adaptive nature, and content to make an informed decision that aligns with your academic goals.