Originally published July 2026. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
The GMAT Focus Edition is the current version of the Graduate Management Admission Test, administered by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council). It replaced the classic GMAT in early 2024 and is the standardised test used by business schools worldwide to evaluate applicants for MBA and other graduate management programmes.
The Focus Edition is shorter and more streamlined than its predecessor. GMAC removed the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) essay section and the standalone Integrated Reasoning (IR) section, replacing them with a new Data Insights section that combines elements of both. The result is a 2-hour-15-minute test with 64 questions across three equally weighted sections. (Source: GMAC — mba.com)
The test is section-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of each question adjusts based on your performance on previous questions within that section. You can also choose the order in which you take the three sections, giving you more control over your test-day experience.
| Section | Questions | Time | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes | Problem Solving |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes | Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes | Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis |
| Total | 64 | 2 hours 15 min | — |
Source: GMAC (mba.com — GMAT Focus Edition exam structure).
Key changes from the classic GMAT: The AWA essay is gone. Sentence Correction questions have been removed from Verbal. Data Sufficiency has moved from the Quant section to Data Insights. You now get one 10-minute optional break (instead of two 8-minute breaks). You can choose your section order. And you can review and change up to 3 answers per section before submitting.
This section tests your ability to solve mathematical problems using arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and word problems. All questions are Problem Solving format — you select the correct answer from five multiple-choice options. Data Sufficiency questions have moved to Data Insights.
What is tested: Arithmetic (fractions, percentages, ratios, averages), algebra (equations, inequalities, functions), geometry (area, perimeter, coordinate geometry), and word problems (rate, work, mixtures, probability, combinatorics). No calculus or advanced mathematics is required.
Strategy: You get approximately 2 minutes 8 seconds per question. Focus on number properties and mental math shortcuts. Backsolving (plugging answer choices into the question) and picking numbers (substituting values for variables) are essential techniques.
This section evaluates your ability to read and comprehend written material, evaluate arguments, and draw logical conclusions. There are two question types: Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. Sentence Correction has been removed.
Reading Comprehension: Passages of 200–350 words on topics from business, science, social sciences, and humanities. Questions ask about main idea, specific details, inferences, author’s tone, and logical structure.
Critical Reasoning: Short arguments (one to two paragraphs) followed by questions asking you to strengthen, weaken, identify assumptions, draw conclusions, or evaluate the argument’s structure.
Strategy: You get approximately 1 minute 57 seconds per question. For Reading Comprehension, read actively — focus on the author’s main point and argument structure rather than memorising details. For Critical Reasoning, identify the conclusion and evidence before looking at answer choices.
This is the newest section, combining elements of the old Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency. It tests your ability to analyse data from multiple sources, interpret graphs and tables, and determine whether you have sufficient information to solve a problem.
| Question Type | What It Tests | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Data Sufficiency | Whether two statements provide enough information to answer a question | 5 fixed answer choices (A–E) |
| Multi-Source Reasoning | Synthesising information from multiple tabs (text, tables, charts) | Multiple choice or Yes/No per row |
| Table Analysis | Sorting and analysing data in a sortable table | Yes/No or True/False per row |
| Graphics Interpretation | Reading and interpreting graphs, scatter plots, or charts | Fill-in-the-blank from dropdown menus |
| Two-Part Analysis | Solving problems with two interrelated components | Select one answer per column from a table |
Source: GMAC (mba.com — GMAT Focus Edition Data Insights section).
The GMAT Focus Edition uses a total score range of 205 to 805, with each section scored individually on a scale of 60 to 90. All three sections contribute equally to the total score. Scores are reported in 10-point increments for the total and 1-point increments for sections. (Source: GMAC — gmac.com)
You receive unofficial scores immediately after completing the test. Official scores, including the Enhanced Score Report (ESR), are available within approximately 7 business days.
| Total Score | Percentile | Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|
| 705+ | 99th | Competitive for any top-10 global MBA |
| 645–695 | 85th–98th | Strong for top-20 programmes |
| 575–635 | 55th–80th | Competitive for most accredited MBA programmes |
| 505–565 | 25th–50th | Below average — may limit options |
| Below 505 | Below 25th | Consider retaking or exploring test-optional programmes |
Source: GMAC (gmac.com — GMAT exam scores and percentiles). Percentile data based on 531,520 exams taken 2020–2025.
Score validity: GMAT scores are valid for 5 years. You can take the exam up to 5 times within a rolling 12-month period, with a minimum gap of 16 calendar days between attempts.
Score sending: You can send your scores to up to 5 programmes for free when you register. Additional score reports cost USD 35 each. You can use Score Preview to see your unofficial score before deciding whether to send it.
The short answer: it depends on the programme. The trend toward test-optional admissions has accelerated significantly since 2020. Many top business schools no longer require GMAT scores, while others have made them optional or offer waiver programmes for candidates who meet certain criteria.
| Category | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GMAT required | INSEAD, some European programmes | Fewer programmes require it than before; check programme pages |
| Test-optional | HBS, Wharton, Stanford GSB, Kellogg, Booth, Columbia, Michigan Ross | Score not required but can strengthen application |
| GMAT waiver available | MIT Sloan, UCL, NYU Stern | Waiver granted based on work experience, GPA, or professional certifications |
| No GMAT at all | Some online and executive MBA programmes | Typically evaluate based on work experience and academic record |
When you should still take the GMAT:
Even if your target programme is test-optional, a strong GMAT score can help in several ways. It demonstrates quantitative readiness (especially important if your undergraduate degree is not in a quantitative field). It strengthens scholarship applications — many merit-based scholarships still use GMAT scores as a criterion. It provides a standardised data point if your GPA is average or from a less well-known university. And for international applicants, it signals academic capability in a globally recognised format.
When you might skip the GMAT: If you have significant professional experience (typically 5+ years), a strong GPA from a well-known university, and are applying to test-optional programmes, the GMAT may not be necessary. However, always check each programme’s specific requirements and weigh the potential benefit of a strong score.
| Item | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Test centre registration | $275 |
| Online (at home) registration | $300 |
| Rescheduling (more than 60 days before) | $55 |
| Rescheduling (15–60 days before) | $110 |
| Rescheduling (1–14 days before) | $165 |
| Additional score report | $35 each |
| Enhanced Score Report (ESR) | $30 |
| Score cancellation (after test) | Free (within 72 hours) |
| Score reinstatement | $50 |
Source: GMAC (mba.com — GMAT registration and fees).
How to register: Create an account at mba.com, select a test date and location (test centre or online), and pay the fee. Test centres are available in most major cities worldwide; Nepal has a test centre in Kathmandu.
On test day: Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in at the test centre. Bring a valid passport (for international test-takers) or government-issued ID. You receive a notepad and marker for scratch work. You choose the order of the three sections. There is one optional 10-minute break between sections. You can review and change up to 3 answers per section before moving on.
Online option: The GMAT Online Exam has the same content, timing, and scoring as the test-centre version. You need a quiet, private room, a computer with a webcam, and a reliable internet connection. You are monitored by a live proctor throughout.
Use official GMAC materials first: Start with the free GMAT Official Starter Kit available at mba.com, which includes practice questions and two full-length practice exams. The official materials are the most accurate representation of what you will see on test day.
Quantitative Reasoning tips: Master number properties, ratios, and percentages — these appear frequently. Practice mental math to save time. Learn backsolving (plugging answer choices into the problem) and picking numbers (substituting easy values for variables). Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorising formulas.
Verbal Reasoning tips: For Reading Comprehension, practice active reading — identify the main point, author’s purpose, and argument structure in the first read. For Critical Reasoning, always identify the conclusion and supporting evidence before evaluating answer choices. Read answer choices carefully — wrong answers often contain subtle distortions.
Data Insights tips: This section is new to most test-takers. Practise Data Sufficiency separately — the logic is unique and requires training. For Multi-Source Reasoning and Table Analysis, practise extracting specific data points quickly. Do not spend too long on any single question — time management is critical in this section.
Practice with adaptive tests: The GMAT is section-adaptive, so practise with adaptive mock tests (available from GMAC at mba.com) to simulate the real experience. Static practice sets do not replicate the adaptive difficulty curve.
| Starting Level | Target Score | Study Duration | Hours per Week |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strong quant background, good English | 645+ | 6–8 weeks | 15–20 |
| Average quant, average English | 575–645 | 8–12 weeks | 15–20 |
| Weak quant, needs English improvement | 505–575 | 12–16 weeks | 10–15 |
| Starting from scratch | 645+ | 3–4 months | 15–20 |
Phase 1 (Weeks 1–2): Diagnostic and foundation. Take a full-length diagnostic test at mba.com. Identify your weakest areas. Review fundamentals in those areas — this is foundation-building, not question practice.
Phase 2 (Weeks 3–6): Targeted practice. Work through each section systematically. Do timed practice sets to build speed. Focus 60% of your time on weak areas, 40% on maintaining strong areas. Take one full-length practice test per week.
Phase 3 (Weeks 7–8): Simulation and refinement. Take 2–3 full-length practice tests under realistic conditions. Review every wrong answer — understand not just what the right answer is, but why you chose the wrong one. Fine-tune your timing strategy and section order preference.
Test centre in Kathmandu: The Pearson VUE test centre in Kathmandu administers the GMAT. Book at least 3–4 weeks in advance, especially during peak application season (August–November). You can alternatively take the online proctored exam from home.
Payment: The fee is charged in USD. You can pay using an international credit or debit card (Visa or Mastercard). If you do not have an international card, some test preparation centres in Kathmandu can assist with registration.
Verbal section challenge: Nepali test-takers typically score higher on Quantitative Reasoning than Verbal Reasoning. Invest extra time in Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension practice. Read English-language business publications regularly to build reading speed and comprehension.
Data Insights advantage: If you have a quantitative background (engineering, science, commerce), the Data Insights section can be a scoring opportunity. Data Sufficiency is a learnable question type — dedicated practice yields significant improvement.
Budget for retakes: Many successful MBA applicants take the GMAT more than once. Budget for at least two attempts in your planning. Your best score is what matters — business schools typically consider your highest score.
Planning to take the GMAT for your MBA application?
Get Free Consultation From The Next Global
Our counsellors help you decide whether to take the GMAT, set a target score, and choose the right MBA programme.
It depends on the programme. Many top business schools (including Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, and others) are now test-optional. However, some programmes still require it, and a strong score can strengthen your application even at test-optional schools — especially for scholarships and if your academic profile needs reinforcement.
A score of 645+ (85th percentile) is competitive for most top-20 MBA programmes. A 705+ puts you in the 99th percentile. The average total score across all test-takers is approximately 535. Your target depends on the specific programmes you are applying to — check their class profile pages for median GMAT scores. (Source: GMAC — gmac.com)
The Focus Edition is shorter (2 hours 15 minutes vs 3.5 hours), has 3 sections instead of 4 (AWA essay removed), has moved Data Sufficiency to the new Data Insights section, removed Sentence Correction from Verbal, allows you to choose section order, and lets you review and change up to 3 answers per section. (Source: GMAC — mba.com)
Yes. The GMAT Online Exam has identical content, timing, and scoring to the test-centre version. It costs USD 300 (vs USD 275 at a test centre). You need a quiet, private room, a computer with a webcam, and a stable internet connection. A live proctor monitors you throughout the exam.
You can take the GMAT up to 5 times within a rolling 12-month period, with a minimum gap of 16 calendar days between attempts. There is a lifetime limit of 8 attempts. Most business schools consider your highest score, so retaking can be beneficial if you underperform. (Source: GMAC — mba.com)
Most MBA programmes accept both. The GMAT is specifically designed for business school admissions, while the GRE is accepted by a wider range of graduate programmes. If you are only applying to MBA programmes, the GMAT may be slightly preferred. If you are also considering non-business graduate programmes, the GRE offers more flexibility. Check your target programmes’ preferences before deciding.
Official Sources Referenced:
GMAC — GMAT Focus Edition exam structure: mba.com
GMAC — GMAT exam scores and percentiles: gmac.com
GMAC — GMAT registration and fees: mba.com
