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GMAT 2024: All You Need to Know

A Comprehensive Guide for GMAT Test Takers

GMAT FOCUS EDITION OVERVIEW

The GMAT focus edition is a standardised test used by many business schools worldwide as part of their admission requirements for MBA and other graduate management programs. Its purpose is to assess the essential skills and abilities needed for success in the business and management field. Furthermore, GMAT focus edition scores are also taken into consideration for admission to MiM (Master's in Management) and Ph.D. in Management programs.

GMAT focus is specifically tailored for business schools, to evaluate candidates' aptitude and readiness for MBA and other graduate management programs. Read More

Quantitative Reasoning

Evaluates mathematical and problem-solving skills with both data sufficiency and problem-solving questions.

Scoring Scale: 0 to 60, with a score interval of 1
Duration: 45 minutes
Number of Questions 21
Minimum Marks: 60
Maximum Marks: 90
Verbal Reasoning

Assesses comprehension of written material, analysis of arguments, and the ability to correct written content. It includes questions on reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.

Scoring Scale: 0 to 90
Duration: 45 minutes
Number of Questions 23
Minimum Marks: 60
Maximum Marks: 90
Data Insight

The Data Insights section is a new addition to the GMAT Focus Edition that tests your ability to interpret and analyze various data forms.

Scoring Scale: 0 to 90
Duration: 45 minutes
Number of Questions 20
Minimum Marks: 60
Maximum Marks: 90

Total = 64 Questions (2 Hours and 15 Minutes)

The GMAT Focus Edition syllabus is shorter and different from the regular GMAT syllabus. The removal of AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) and SC (Sentence Correction) and the addition of Data Insights will impact how you prepare for the GMAT exam.

The total test duration for the GMAT focus edition is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. In addition to these sections, there is 1 optional (10 min) break, and there may also be a brief tutorial at the beginning of the test. The time taken for breaks is not included in the 2 hours and 15 minutes test duration. Test takers should plan accordingly to manage their time effectively throughout the exam.

The GMAT Focus Edition is available for scheduling throughout the year, allowing test takers to choose their preferred exam dates from authorized test centers.

Though the GMAT has been updated, the previous GMAT scores remain valid for a period of five years from the date of the test. Read Less

GMAT FOCUS EDITION LATEST UPDATES

The latest update to the GMAT focus edition exam brings a streamlined structure with fewer sections compared to previous versions.

Notably, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section, which included essay writing tasks, has been removed. Instead, the new update introduces the Data Insight section, focusing on assessing data analysis skills.

With this update, test-takers are encouraged to work smarter and focus on essential aspects of business and management readiness. The Data Insight section challenges candidates' ability to analyze and draw insights from complex data sets, a crucial skill in today's data-driven business landscape. Read More

By eliminating the essay writing portion, the GMAT now offers a more efficient and targeted evaluation of skills highly valued in the business world.

Aspiring business professionals can now concentrate their efforts on mastering the areas that truly matter, making their preparation more effective and purposeful for success in their graduate management journey.

Introducing the GMAT Exam - Focus Edition, designed to provide a more targeted test-taking experience that emphasises higher-order critical reasoning and data literacy skills. This update aims to align the exam with the demands of the future business environment, making it more relevant and applicable for aspiring business professionals.

The existing version of the GMAT focus edition exam will remain accessible until early next year, allowing test takers to continue their ongoing preparation and submit applications for business school. Furthermore, the following timeframes for the GMAT focus edition Focus Official Prep, registration, and appointment availability:

  • Official Prep Available: Starting June 6, 2023
  • Registration Opens: August 29, 2023
  • Testing Commences: In the fourth quarter of 2023

The latest version of the GMAT focus edition exam offers efficiency by reducing the test to three 45-minute sections, removing the essay, and streamlining content for preparation.

It provides flexibility for test-takers to personalise their experience with features like Question Review & Edit, Select Section Order, and improved score-sending options.

Moreover, test-takers will gain valuable insights from a more detailed Official Score Report, which is now included with registration.

  • Experience the shortest GMAT focus edition ever, saving nearly one hour of your time.
  • Study with ease, as the content has been streamlined, requiring less preparation.
  • No essay section means all questions are now multiple-choice.
  • Enjoy easier score sending - send your score to five schools for free once you know your results.
  • Focus on relevant business skills with three sections of classroom-ready content.
  • Get personalized insights through an improved Official Score Report, offering detailed performance feedback.
RE-TESTS

GMAT focus edition test-takers can take the exam up to five times within 12 months. There must be at least a 16-day gap between two consecutive attempts. Test-takers are allowed a maximum of eight attempts in their lifetime.

COST

One notable change is the increase in the GMAT focus edition exam fee for the online GMAT focus edition exam, which now stands at US $300.

Read Less

GMAT FOCUS EDITION 2024: Key Highlights

GMAT focus edition full form Graduate Management Admission Test
Short Exam Name GMAT focus edition
Conducting Body Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
Exam Level International Level Exam
Languages English
Mode of Application Online
Mode of Exam Online or Center-based
Participating Colleges 197
Duration of the Exam 2 hours 15 minutes + 10 min break

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA 2024

Age Eligibility:
  • To be eligible for the GMAT exam, candidates must be at least 18 years old.
  • There is no upper age limit for taking the GMAT exam.
  • If an applicant is between 13 and 17, they need to provide written approval from a parent or guardian.
Academic Qualification:
  • The GMAT Focus Edition is open to anyone interested in pursuing undergraduate or master's courses in business.
  • GMAC sets no specific educational prerequisites for this edition, but candidates must meet the minimum requirements of their chosen schools or universities.
Passport Requirement:
  • A valid passport is a mandatory prerequisite for candidates taking the GMAT exam.
  • It is imperative for candidates to possess a valid passport during the GMAT examination.

GMAT FOCUS EDITION FEES 2024

GMAT focus edition, administered by GMAC, is a globally recognized exam designed to assess the business analytical skills of its takers. The registration process involves a fee of $275 (INR 22,583), allowing individuals to secure their test date. However, there are important considerations and payment methods to be aware of before finalizing registration.

Moreover, GMAT focus edition exam fees in India are $300 for the online format and $275 for the test center option. If applicants wish to reschedule or cancel their GMAT focus edition 2024 exam, they will incur additional fees. Full GMAT focus edition exam fees will be charged to candidates who fail to attend the test.

Payment Methods:

For candidates' convenience, GMAT focus edition offers both online and offline payment options.

Online Payment ModeOnline ModeUS$275 (Rs 22,813.08)

Using credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, JCB), candidates can conveniently pay the registration fee online. It's essential to ensure successful transaction completion, as failed payments will lead to automatic registration cancellation. In such cases, the process will need to be restarted with a valid session.

Offline Payment ModeOffline ModeUS$300 (Rs 24887.00)

An alternative option is offline payment, which involves using money orders, cashier cheques, or personal cheques made payable to PEARSON VUE in US dollars. This offline payment must include applicable taxes within the full amount. Candidates should allow ample time for the payment and necessary documents to reach the authority at least 10 business days before the scheduled GMAT exam date. Careful attention should be paid to provide accurate bank details, a clear name and signature, and proper address proof on the cheque. Candidates should also be aware that insufficient funds could lead to additional service fees from the bank, resulting in cancellation of the registration.

GMAT FOCUS EDITION Registration 20244

GMAT Exam Date Booking in 2024:
  • Candidates can secure their GMAT exam dates for 2024 after reviewing the available slots.
  • It is recommended to plan and book exam dates well in advance to ensure availability.
How to Register for GMAT
Online
  • Candidates can easily register for the GMAT by following a simple online process.
  • Detailed instructions are provided during the online registration process.
Offline (Fees via Post)
  • Alternatively, candidates can choose to register offline, with fees payable through postal mail.
  • Specific instructions for offline registration are provided for candidates opting for this method.
Post Mail
  • GMAT registration can also be completed through postal mail, with candidates following the outlined instructions for the process.
  • This option provides an additional avenue for candidates to register for the exam.

GMAT Exam Dates 2024

Cities Gmat Test Dates - FOCUS EDITION
GMAT test dates Ahmedabad
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
3, 9,16, 23, 25
March 2024:
1, 2, 6, 8, 16, 21, 23, 28
April 2024:
1,2,3,4,5,9,15, 23, 28
GMAT test dates Amritsar
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
1,2,3, 5,7 9,11,12,13,14,15,16, 23, 25
March 2024:
1, 2, 3,4,6, 8,15,16, 17,18,19,21, 22,25,26,28
April 2024:
1,2,4,6,9,11,12,14,15,17,19,20,22,25,26,28,29, 30
GMAT test dates Bangalore
Feb 2024:
2,4,6,9,11, 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28
March 2024:
1,2,3,5,7,8,12,16,20,22,25,29
April 2025:
2,5,8,9,11,15,16, 23, 25, 30, 31
GMAT test dates Bhopal
Feb 2024:
1,2,4,5,8,10,12,13,15,16,19,20,22,23,25,26,28
March 2024:
2,5,8,9,11,15,16,18,19, 23, 25, 30, 31
April 2024:
18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27
GMAT test dates Chennai
Feb 2024:
2,3,5,8,9,11, 12,13,18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 29
March 2024:
2,4,6,9,10,12,15,16, 21,22,23, 25
April 2024:
1,2,5,6,11,15,26,28,29
GMAT test dates Cochin
Feb 2024:
2,3,6,8,9,12,18, 20, 21, 24,25, 26, 27
March 2024:
1,2,3,5,6,8,12,13,15,17,18,20,24,25,27,29,30
April 2024:
1,2,4,5,7, 16,17,19,22, 27
GMAT test dates Gurugram
Feb 2024:
2, 3, 9,16, 17,18,19,21,23, 25, 28
March 2024:
2,4,7,9,10,11,25,27,28,29
April 2024:
2,5,7,19,20,22,27
GMAT test dates Guwahati
Jan 2024:
30, 31
Feb 2024:
1, 2,3,5,8,11,16,19,25, 26,27
March 2024:
2,3,5,7,19,20,25,28
April 2024:
1,4,6,8,9,15,20,25,26,29,30
GMAT test dates Hyderabad
Feb 2024:
1,2,3,5,6,9,11,15,17,18,20,22,25,26,27,28
March 2024:
1,2,3,4,7,12,16,19,22,23,26,28,29,30
April 2024:
1,2,3,4,6,7,9,11,14,15,17,29,22,25,27,29,30
GMAT test dates Indore
Feb 2024:
3, 9,16, 23, 25, 30, 31
March 2024:
2,7,9,12,15
April 2024:
2,4,7,9,12,18,20,25,28
GMAT test dates Jaipur
Feb 2024:
1,2,3, 9,16, 21,22,23, 25, 28
March 2024:
1,2,3,5,7,9,11,14,16,19,20,22,25,28
April 2024:
9,11,14,16,19,20,22,25,28, 29
GMAT test dates Kolkata
Feb 2024:
1,2,7,8,11,16,19,20,25,28
March 2024:
3,6,7,10,11,15,16,19,20,21,22,26,28
April 2024:
2,3,5,6,8,9,10,15,16,17,19,20,22,24,25,26,29,30
GMAT test dates Manipal
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
1,2,4,8,11,15,16,20
March 2024:
1,2,4,5,9,10,14,16,20,22,26
April 2024:
1,2,5,8,9,10,14,16,17,19,20,24,26,29
GMAT test dates Mumbai
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
1,2,4,6,9,10,11,15,17,18,20,25,27,28
March 2024:
2,3,5,8,9,10,11,15,16,17,20,22,25,27,29,30
April 2024:
1,2,3,4,5,9,10,14,16,18,19,20,22,26,29
GMAT test dates Mysore
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
1,2,4,6,9,10,11,15,17,18,20,25,27,28
March 2024:
2,3,5,8,9,10,11,15,16,17,20,22,25,27,29,30
April 2024:
1,2,3,4,5,9,10,14,16,18,19,20,22,26,29
GMAT test dates Nagpur
Feb 2024:
1,2,4,5,7,12,22,23,25,26,27,28
March 2024:
2,3,5,7,9,10,11,15,17,18,20,25,28,29,30
April 2024:
2,4, 5, 11, 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27
GMAT test dates New Delhi
Feb 2024:
4, 5, 11, 18, 20, 21, 27
March 2024:
1,2,6,9,10,14,15,18,20,22
April 2024:
1,2,3,6,8,11,12,16,19,20,29
GMAT test dates Noida
Feb 2024:
4, 5, 11, 18, 20, 21, 25, 27
March 2024:
1,2,3,5,8,9, 12,22,30
April 2024:
1,2,5,7,11,14,17,20,22,25,28,29
GMAT test dates Pilani
Feb 2024:
11
March 2024:
14
April 2024:
16
GMAT test dates Pune
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
2,3,5,8,9,11,14,17,19,20,22,24
March 2024:
1,2,5,7,9,11,15,17,19,20,24,25,28,29,30
April 2024:
2,3,6,9,11,14,17,19,22,26,29
GMAT test dates Ranch
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
1, 3, 7,8,9,16, 20,22,23, 25, 27,28
March 2024:
1,2,3,5,7,9,11,14,16,22,23,24,25,26,27,29
April 2024:
2,3,5,7,8,9,11,15,19,20,25,26,29,30
GMAT test dates Vijayawada
Jan 2024:
30
Feb 2024:
4, 5, 11, 18, 20, 21, 27
March 2024:
1,2,3,5,7,9,11,14,16,22,29
April 2024:
1,2,3,6,14,16,18,29,20,24,26,29,30
GMAT test dates Surat
Feb 2024:
1,2,5,9,12,14,15,20,22,25,26,27
March 2024:
1, 2,3,4,5,9,11,15,19,20,22,26,28
April 2024:
2, 3, 9,16, 21,22, 23, 25, 30
Check Other Cities

GMAT FOCUS EDITION 2024 EXAM PATTERN

The GMAT syllabus has been modified lately, and the exam format has undergone some significant adjustments. Exam portions used to be four: verbal, IR, AWA, and quantitative. However, the most recent GMAT syllabus only has three sections. A data insights part has been included in place of the IR and AWA sections. The Focus Edition of the GMAT has 64 questions instead of the 80 questions on the previous syllabus. The revised GMAT exam format lasts two hours and fifteen minutes.

Quantitative Reasoning

Evaluates mathematical and problem-solving skills with both data sufficiency and problem-solving questions.

Scoring Scale: 0 to 60, with a score interval of 1
Duration: 45 minutes
Number of Questions 21
Minimum Marks: 60
Maximum Marks: 90
Verbal Reasoning

Assesses comprehension of written material, analysis of arguments, and the ability to correct written content. It includes questions on reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.

Scoring Scale: 0 to 90
Duration: 45 minutes
Number of Questions 23
Minimum Marks: 60
Maximum Marks: 90
Data Insight

The Data Insights section is a new addition to the GMAT Focus Edition that tests your ability to interpret and analyze various data forms.

Scoring Scale: 0 to 90
Duration: 45 minutes
Number of Questions 20
Minimum Marks: 60
Maximum Marks: 90

GMAT Focus Edition testing began on February 1st, 2024, and the revised exam format places greater emphasis on assessing applicants in business-level situations. Most business schools in India now accept GMAT focus edition results as part of their admissions process. For the best IIMs in India, the average GMAT score is 720. Applicants must prepare well, using the most recent study materials, to comprehend the revised GMAT syllabus.

GMAT FOCUS EDITION SYLLABUS 2024

The GMAT Focus Edition has 64 questions and lasts for two hours and fifteen minutes (with an optional ten-minute break). The GMAT Focus Edition syllabus is divided into three sections that highlight the particular abilities required to be successful in a graduate management program:

  • Quantitative Reasoning
  • Verbal Reasoning
  • Data Insights
Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions in 45 Minutes)
  • Algebra 
  • Arithmetic
Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions in 45 Minutes)
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Reasoning (CR)
Data Insights (20 Questions in 45 Minutes)
  • Data Sufficiency
  • Multi-source Reasoning
  • Table Analysis
  • Graphics Interpretation

Total 64 Questions in 135 minutes

GMAT FOCUS EDITION SCORE 2024

The Official Score Report provides various ways to understand your GMAT focus edition exam performance. It includes three individual scores (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights and Total), each presented on a standard scale and accompanied by a percentile ranking. This information, along with your personal details like GMAT focus edition ID, exam date, and appointment number, is featured on the Official GMAT focus edition Score Report sent to you and the graduate business programs you designate. Your achieved score remains valid for five years, offering you the freedom to share your results with schools whenever you are prepared.

Section Score Range Scoring Intervals
Quantitative Reasoning 60 - 90 1
Verbal Reasoning 60 - 90 1
Data Insights 60 - 90 1
Total Score 205 - 805 10

GMAT FOCUS EDITION 2024 PREPARATION

The GMAT exam is regarded as one of the most difficult ones for applicants who want to pursue higher education overseas. The GMAT evaluates applicants' English language proficiency in preparation for B-school coursework.

As a result, applicants view GMAT preparation as quite intimidating. Though a well-thought-out study schedule, useful study guides, and preparatory advice could hasten their GMAT preparation, A few pointers for preparing for the GMAT are:

Decide on a goal score.
Plan your study time.
Download the GMAT practice applications.
Practice basic mathematical calculations without a calculator.
Proceed with the online practice exams at a standard speed.
The ideal month or period for taking the GMAT.

GMAT FOCUS EDITION QUESTION PAPER 2024

GMAT focus edition question papers play a crucial role in preparing for the GMAT focus edition exam. To assist beginners, we have included GMAT focus edition questions for each section, facilitating comprehensive preparation. Participation in GMAT focus edition mock tests is highly recommended for students. These model tests serve as a valuable tool for analyzing mistakes and implementing necessary corrections in their GMAT focus edition 2024 exam readiness. It is strongly emphasized that students should recognize the significance of GMAT focus edition mock tests, as they constitute an integral component of their overall GMAT focus edition exam preparation. Explore sample GMAT focus edition questions categorized by section here:

GMAT FOCUS EDITION COLLEGES 2024

Aspiring GMAT Focus Edition candidates can apply to over 7700 programs at approximately 2400 business schools worldwide. Prestigious institutions like Harvard, INSEAD, and Stanford acknowledge GMAT focus edition scores above 720. Additionally, management schools must confer degrees on students for eligibility to accept GMAT Focus edition scores. GMAT focus edition scores play a pivotal role in the admission process for top B-schools globally. Accepted in over 110 countries, GMAT focus edition is a key credential. For those considering schools accepting both GRE and GMAT focus edition scores, understanding GRE to GMAT focus edition Score Conversion becomes essential for score interpretation.

MBA COLLEGES IN INDIA ACCEPTING 2024

Indian MBA College Accepting GMAT focus edition Exam MBA Course Name
ISB Hyderabad Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
IIM Ahmedabad Post Graduate Program in Management for Executives (PGPX)
IIM Bangalore Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA)
IIM Calcutta Post Graduate Diploma in Business Analytics (PGDBA)
XLRI Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
IIM Indore Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
SP Jain (SPJIMR) Post Graduate Program in Management (PGPM)
Great Lakes Institute of Management (GLIM) Post Graduate Program in Management (PGPM) and PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)
XIMB Master’s Program in Business Management (MBA-BM)
IMT Ghaziabad Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)

GMAT FOCUS EDITION SCHOLARSHIP 2024

Scholarships and Grants Overview
  • Business schools commonly offer scholarships and grants for pursuing professional programs like MBA.
  • Scholarships can be categorised as need-based or merit-based, and the criteria for GMAT scholarships in 2024 vary across schools.
  • Awarding of scholarships is contingent on each school's unique admission process, necessitating candidates to check directly with the respective institution for scholarship opportunities.
Types of Scholarships:
  • Full Scholarships: Encompass the entire cost of the program.
  • Partial Scholarships: Cover only a portion of the course fee.
University Type Name
Harvard University Scholarship Need-Based Scholarship
The University of Chicago Booth Scholarship/Fellowship The Ramakrishnan Family Scholarship
Akshtari H Tobaccowala Fellowship
Dartmouth College Fellowship Need-Based Fellowship
Saïd Business School PGDFellowshipM (GM) Need-Based Fellowship
London Business School Fellowship Need-Based Fellowship
Oxford and Cambridge Society of India Scholarship OSCI Scholarship for Indian Students
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Fellowship Need-Based Fellowship
INSEAD Fellowship Need-Based Fellowship

GMAT FOCUS EDITION VS. GRE

Choosing Between GMAT and GRE for MBA Admission:
Structure:

The GMAT Focus Edition consists of three sections:

  • Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions, reduced from 31)
  • Verbal Reasoning (23 questions, reduced from 36)
  • Data Insights (20 questions, including data sufficiency and items from the former Integrated Reasoning section)

The GRE has been shortened to 2 hours (as of September 22, 2023). It now includes 27 verbal and 27 quantitative questions.

Changes:
  • In GMAT Focus Edition, Grammar, sentence correction, and the essay have been eliminated. Most geometry questions are also removed.
  • In GRE the types of questions remain similar to the old format.
Acceptance:
  • While the GMAT and GMAT Focus Edition are business school-oriented, the GRE is typically accepted by other graduate programs, including business schools.
Duration and Cost:
  • GRE: 3 hours and 45 minutes
  • GMAT Focus Edition: 2 hours 15 minutes (same cost as the regular GMAT)
GMAT Focus edition GRE
Most graduate business programs Most graduate programs, including business
Online or at a testing centre Online or at a testing centre
$250 online or $275 in person (including free score delivery to up to five schools) Consider your proficiency in the quant section when deciding between GMAT and GRE for MBA admission
2 Hours 15 minutes 1 Hours 58 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions), Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions), and a new Data insights section (20 Questions). They removed the essay and the experimental section. They reduced the number of verbal questions from 40 to 27 and the number of quantitative questions from 40 tp 27
5 years 5 years

GMAT FOCUS EDITION FAQS 2024

What is the 2024 GMAT portion?
There is a reduced exam period for the GMAT Focus Edition. The new GMAT structure is 2 hours and 15 minutes long, consisting of three 45-minute sections: Verbal, Quantitative, and Integrated Reasoning.
When should I take the 2024 GMAT?

Applicants have the entire year to take the GMAT exam. It is recommended that students begin their preparation three to six months before their intended test date. The optimal time to take the GMAT exam is determined by some factors:

  • Target schools: After taking into account the deadline of their intended B-school, candidates must apply for GMAT registration.
  • Time needed for preparation: Check existing abilities and create a reasonable study schedule.
  • Format preference: Between the new GMAT Focus Edition and the regular GMAT exam pattern, select the appropriate one.
What is the new pattern for the GMAT?

The new GMAT pattern includes:

  • There are three major sections, namely, Data Insights (DI), Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Quantitative Reasoning.
  • The GMAT exam duration is 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 45 minutes for each section.
  • The essay has been removed.
  • All the questions will be multiple-choice questions.
What is the GMAT 2024 fee schedule?

The 2024 GMAT cost schedule varies by format and venue.

  • Normal GMAT score: Most countries. $275
  • Developing countries: $225
  • Focus Edition: $125 worldwide

For late registration, score reinstatement, and rescheduling, candidates may need to pay an extra GMAT price.

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