The GMAT, now called the GMAT Focus Edition, has been updated to better align with today’s business environment. This computer-adaptive test assesses data literacy and higher-order reasoning and no longer includes the Sentence Correction or Essay (AWA) sections. Here is an overview of GMAT with respect to its exam structure, content, scoring system, features, and other updates.
GMAT Exam Structure & Content
The exam lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes and consists of three sections, which may be taken in any order.
| Section | Questions | Time | Content Focus |
|
Quantitative Reasoning
|
21 | 45 min |
Arithmetic and Algebra only. Geometry has been removed (except for coordinate geometry within algebra).
|
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
23 | 45 min |
Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension only. Sentence Correction has been removed.
|
|
Data Insights
|
20 | 45 min | Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, and Two-Part Analysis. |
An on-screen calculator is available only during the Data Insights section. Calculators are not permitted in the Quantitative section.
GMAT Scoring System
The GMAT now uses a 205 to 805 scale, replacing the previous 200 to 800 scale. This change allows admissions officers to easily differentiate between old and new scores.
- Each section is scored on a scale of 60 to 90.
- All three sections—Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights—contribute equally to the total score.
- A score of 645 on the new scale is approximately equivalent to a 700 on the previous exam. Percentile rankings are now the most effective way to assess competitiveness.
GMAT Features
The 2026 GMAT introduced “Question Review & Edit,” a significant update for test-takers:
- You cannot skip questions, but you may bookmark them as you progress.
- After completing a section, if time remains, a Review Screen will appear. You may revisit any question in that section and change up to three answers.
- You are allowed one optional 10-minute break, which may be taken after the first or second section.
- Registration & PolicieYou may retake the exam every 16 days, up to five times per year.ar.
- Lifetime Limit: Each candidate may attempt the exam up to eight times. Score Reporting: Unofficial scores are available immediately after the test. You have 48 hours to send your official score to up to five programs at no cost.
- Scores are valid for five years.
Summary Table: Then vs. Now
| Feature | Legacy GMAT (Pre-2024) | GMAT Focus (2026) |
|
Duration
|
3 hours 7 minutes |
2 hours 15 minutes
|
|
Score Range
|
200–800 |
205–805
|
|
Total Sections
|
4 (Quant, Verbal, IR, AWA) |
3 (Quant, Verbal, DI)
|
|
Grammar/SC
|
Included |
Removed
|
|
Geometry
|
Included |
Removed
|
|
Review Feature
|
No (could not change answers) |
Yes (3 edits per section)
|
