A Guide to the Updated GMAT and GRE: What Candidates Should Know

The world of graduate admissions testing is undergoing a significant transformation with the arrival of the new GRE Focus Edition and the GMAT Focus Edition. Both tests have been redesigned to create a shorter, more efficient experience for test takers while maintaining the rigor and validity that business schools and graduate programs expect. The GRE update launched on September 22, 2023, and the GMAT Focus Edition is set to arrive on November 7, 2023. These changes come as a response to evolving educational needs and the desire to reduce test anxiety among candidates. Understanding the modifications and how they will impact your preparation is critical to navigating the new landscape successfully.

The Shift to a Shorter GRE Focus Edition

One of the most striking changes in the GRE Focus Edition is its significantly shortened duration. The test now takes just under two hours, a drastic reduction from the previous version that could take close to four hours to complete. This shorter length aims to lessen the mental fatigue candidates often face during long exams and to make the testing experience less daunting.

The Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE, has balanced the need to maintain a rigorous assessment with a better candidate experience. This effort shows a clear understanding of the stress and pressure test takers endure. By shortening the test, ETS hopes to encourage more students to apply to graduate programs by removing the intimidation factor of a lengthy exam.

Key Changes in the GRE Focus Edition

Several notable changes have been introduced in this new edition of the GRE. The removal of the unscored experimental section means that every question will now directly affect your final score. This change increases the stakes of each question, making accuracy and time management more critical than ever.

Additionally, the analytical writing section has been altered. The “Analyze an Argument” task has been eliminated, reducing the writing portion to a single analytical writing task. This streamlines the writing evaluation but also means there is less room to demonstrate critical writing skills.

The number of questions in the quantitative and verbal reasoning sections has also been reduced. This concentration of questions focuses the test more on the core competencies essential for graduate-level study.

The test no longer includes the traditional 10-minute break, which previously gave candidates a moment to regroup. This change contributes to the condensed format but places greater emphasis on stamina and focus throughout the exam.

Scores will now be delivered faster, typically within eight to ten days after the test date. This improvement helps candidates receive their results promptly and submit their applications sooner.

Impact of the GRE Focus Edition on Test Preparation

The shortened format of the GRE means that test preparation strategies will need to adapt. Since there are fewer questions, every single item will carry more weight in the overall score. This reduction means candidates cannot afford to guess or skip questions as freely as before.

Another factor is pacing. Candidates must work efficiently to answer questions correctly within a tighter timeframe. Traditional practice tests that mimic the older, longer GRE will no longer be as effective for preparation. Instead, test takers should seek or simulate practice that aligns with the new test’s timing and structure.

Currently, test prep books and official materials tailored specifically to the new GRE Focus Edition are limited. However, since the content largely remains consistent with the previous GRE, candidates can still use existing resources with an adjusted practice approach. ETS is expected to release more information and official prep tools as the new GRE becomes established.

Introduction to the GMAT Focus Edition

Following the GRE update, the GMAT is also undergoing a significant revision with the Focus Edition launching on November 7, 2023. Developed by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), this updated test aims to be more flexible, efficient, and insightful.

The GMAT has traditionally been the gold standard for MBA admissions, designed specifically to assess skills relevant to business management. However, with many schools accepting both the GRE and GMAT, the focus has shifted toward making the exam more accessible and less intimidating while retaining its ability to measure essential skills.

The GMAT Focus Edition is shorter and more streamlined than its predecessor, featuring only three sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and a new Data Insights section. This change reflects the evolving requirements of business schools and the needs of candidates.

What’s Different About the GMAT Focus Edition?

Several components of the traditional GMAT have been removed or altered in the new Focus Edition. Notably, the analytical writing assessment, including the essay, has been eliminated. Both students and admissions committees found this portion somewhat redundant, as other application materials, such as personal essays, serve a similar purpose.

The sentence correction and grammar assessment have also been removed from the verbal section. Instead, the verbal questions now focus exclusively on reading comprehension and critical reasoning skills.

The Integrated Reasoning section, once a separate part of the GMAT, has been reimagined and incorporated into the new Data Insights section. This section includes problems related to data sufficiency, multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, and two-part analysis questions.

The quantitative section has been reduced from 31 questions to 21 and now emphasizes problem-solving skills. One significant removal from this section is geometry, aligning the test more closely with the Executive Assessment, which also excludes geometry.

The New Data Insights Section

The Data Insights section represents one of the most significant changes in the GMAT Focus Edition. It combines elements from the previous integrated reasoning section with newly formatted data sufficiency questions. While pure math questions have been replaced by word problems, this section requires test takers to analyze and interpret data presented in various formats.

The addition of Data Insights raises the importance of integrated reasoning skills, which were previously considered less critical. Candidates will need to develop speed and accuracy in working with complex data, often under considerable time pressure.

Preparing for this section will require focused study on data interpretation and reasoning, as it is expected to be one of the more challenging parts of the exam.

New Testing Flexibility on the GMAT Focus Edition

The GMAT Focus Edition introduces greater flexibility in how candidates approach the exam. For the first time, test takers can choose the order in which they complete the three sections. This allows candidates to start with their strongest area to build confidence and momentum.

Another notable addition is the ability to bookmark questions and return to change up to three answers per section. This feature can help reduce the pressure caused by the shorter exam length, allowing test takers to revisit difficult questions without losing too much time.

However, despite these benefits, the overall time constraints remain tight. Candidates must still balance speed and precision, making every minute and every question count.

Understanding Scoring Changes

Alongside the structural changes, the GMAT Focus Edition features a revamped scoring system. Scores on the new exam will not be directly comparable to those on the traditional GMAT. For example, a score of 700 on the old test might correspond roughly to a 665 on the new version.

This score recalibration will likely alter the admissions landscape for business schools in the near future. The elimination of extremely high scores above 700 will compress the scoring scale, potentially increasing competition in the middle range.

Scores will also be available faster, within three to five days, enabling quicker decisions and applications. Another candidate-friendly change is the ability to select which schools receive scores only after the test, rather than beforehand.

These changes in scoring and reporting aim to provide clearer insights into candidates’ abilities and improve transparency.

What Applicants Should Know

As these new test versions roll out, applicants may feel uncertain about how schools will treat the updated scores. However, it is important to remember that admissions committees use a holistic approach when evaluating candidates.

Test scores are only one part of an applicant’s profile, alongside academic records, essays, recommendations, and professional experience. Although the exams have changed, the overall admissions philosophy remains focused on comprehensive evaluation.

Applicants should prepare diligently for the new formats while continuing to build strong overall applications.

The arrival of the GRE Focus Edition and GMAT Focus Edition marks a new chapter in graduate admissions testing. Both exams have been shortened and refined to create a more efficient, less intimidating experience for test takers. While the content continues to assess essential skills, the condensed formats demand sharper focus and careful preparation.

Test takers must adapt their study strategies to the new structures, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and data interpretation skills. The added flexibility in the GMAT Focus Edition may provide new advantages, but every question will carry more weight than before.

Ultimately, these changes reflect the evolving landscape of business education and graduate admissions, aiming to better serve both candidates and schools. Staying informed and adjusting your approach will help you navigate this transition confidently and maximize your chances of success.

Adapting Your Preparation Strategy for the GRE Focus Edition

The introduction of the GRE Focus Edition requires a thoughtful re-examination of your preparation plan. With the test duration nearly halved and the elimination of the unscored section, each question carries greater weight, making accuracy and pacing paramount. Traditional approaches to preparing for the longer GRE will no longer suffice.

First, practice with full-length timed tests that mimic the new format. Because the test is shorter and more intense, your endurance and focus must be trained to sustain peak performance for the entire duration without the customary breaks. Simulate the actual test conditions as closely as possible, including the absence of extended breaks and the exact number of questions.

Second, review your strategies for answering verbal and quantitative questions. The reduced number of questions means less room for error. Avoid random guessing, as it could significantly lower your final score. Instead, work on eliminating incorrect options quickly and making educated guesses when necessary.

Focusing on High-Yield Content in the GRE

The GRE Focus Edition continues to assess verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, but with a sharper focus on core skills. Candidates should concentrate on high-yield topics within these domains.

In verbal reasoning, critical reading comprehension and vocabulary skills remain essential. The test leans heavily on understanding complex passages and identifying nuances in meaning. Practicing active reading and expanding your vocabulary with rare or precise words will give you an edge.

In quantitative reasoning, expect more emphasis on data interpretation and problem-solving over advanced algebra or geometry. The test will assess your ability to analyze quantitative information quickly and accurately. Focus on number properties, statistics, and data sufficiency problems to align your studies with the updated exam priorities.

The analytical writing section now includes a single essay focused on analyzing an argument. Practice crafting clear, coherent, and logically sound responses within a limited time to succeed here.

Mastering Time Management on the GRE Focus Edition

Effective time management is a critical skill on the new GRE. The shortened format means less time per question compared to the old test, requiring sharper focus and faster decision-making.

Create a pacing plan for each section before you begin. For example, allocate about one minute per verbal question and slightly less for quantitative ones, adjusting as you identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Learn to recognize questions that are time traps and practice moving on quickly if a question is taking too long. Return to difficult questions only if time permits. This strategy ensures you maximize the number of questions you answer correctly within the time limits.

Additionally, build stamina through practice tests, as maintaining concentration for the entire duration without breaks can be mentally taxing.

Leveraging New Features of the GMAT Focus Edition in Your Study Plan

Preparing for the GMAT Focus Edition involves adjusting to its three-section structure and understanding the new Data Insights section. Start by familiarizing yourself with the types of questions that appear in each section and the skills they test.

Because the analytical writing and sentence correction parts have been removed, you can reallocate study time to the verbal, quantitative, and data reasoning areas. Concentrate on reading comprehension and critical reasoning for the verbal section.

The Data Insights section demands strong data interpretation and multi-step reasoning skills. Practice working with charts, tables, graphs, and multi-source data sets. Strengthen your ability to analyze and draw conclusions quickly.

Since the quantitative section has shifted toward word problems and removed geometry, focus your efforts on algebra, arithmetic, and data sufficiency problems. Problem-solving speed and accuracy will be critical to success.

Developing Skills for the Data Insights Section

The Data Insights section is a unique challenge of the GMAT Focus Edition. Unlike traditional math questions, it assesses your ability to understand and analyze data in various formats and contexts.

To excel, build skills in interpreting complex data presentations and answering multi-part questions. Develop the habit of carefully reading instructions and data to avoid common pitfalls.

Practice with real-world business scenarios, such as financial reports, marketing metrics, and operational data, to gain familiarity with the types of data you will encounter.

Because you can bookmark questions and revisit up to three per section, practice judicious use of this feature during your studies. Strategically flag questions that you find challenging and learn to balance speed with accuracy.

Utilizing Flexible Testing Options to Your Advantage

One of the most significant changes in the GMAT Focus Edition is the ability to choose the order of sections. Use this flexibility to your advantage by starting with your strongest section to build confidence and momentum.

Some candidates prefer to tackle quantitative first if math is their strength, while others start with verbal or data insights to get those challenging sections out of the way early.

Additionally, the option to revisit a limited number of questions can reduce anxiety and improve accuracy. Develop a strategy during practice sessions to identify which questions are worth revisiting and which to lock in quickly.

Remember that despite these options, the overall test time remains tight, so avoid spending excessive time on any question or section.

Scoring Insights and What They Mean for Your Preparation

Understanding the scoring changes in both the GRE and GMAT Focus Editions is essential for setting realistic goals.

With the GRE Focus Edition, the absence of an experimental section means your performance on every question directly affects your score. Precision is vital, and it’s essential to avoid careless mistakes.

The GMAT Focus Edition’s new scoring scale compresses the range of scores, meaning high scores above 700 will be less common. Aim to improve your performance steadily, focusing on accuracy and time management rather than trying to maximize every single point.

Also, keep in mind that scores will be delivered faster on both exams, allowing you to plan your application timeline more effectively.

How Admissions Committees View the New Exams

Admissions committees recognize that the new GRE and GMAT Focus Editions are designed to reflect evolving testing philosophies and candidate needs.

Both exams maintain rigorous standards, and scores will continue to play an important role in admissions decisions. However, committees look beyond scores to assess a candidate’s overall potential, including academic history, professional experience, essays, and recommendations.

Preparing well for the new formats shows adaptability and readiness for graduate study, qualities that admissions officers appreciate.

Tips for a Smooth Transition to the New Testing Formats

To navigate the transition smoothly, start early by familiarizing yourself with the new test structures and question types. Use official resources when they become available, and incorporate new-format practice tests into your study schedule.

Keep track of updates from ETS and GMAC regarding official prep materials, test policies, and score reporting.

Join forums or study groups with other candidates to share insights and tips about the new exams.

Above all, maintain a balanced approach to preparation, focusing on knowledge, test-taking strategies, and mental endurance.

The GRE Focus Edition and GMAT Focus Edition introduce substantial changes that affect test content, format, and strategy. Success on these new exams requires a deliberate adjustment in preparation methods, emphasizing efficiency, precision, and adaptability.

By understanding the new question types, pacing demands, and scoring systems, you can tailor your study plan to meet the challenges ahead. Utilize the flexibility and features of the GMAT Focus Edition to your advantage, and develop focused strategies for the GRE’s condensed format.

Staying informed and practicing effectively will empower you to approach the new GRE and GMAT with confidence, helping you achieve your best possible score and strengthen your graduate school applications.

Advanced Test-Taking Strategies for the GRE Focus Edition

With the GRE Focus Edition’s condensed format, advanced strategies become crucial to maximize your score. One key approach is mastering question triage—quickly identifying which questions to tackle immediately and which to skip temporarily. Because the exam offers fewer questions and less time, spending too long on a single difficult item can severely impact your overall performance.

Prioritize questions that you find straightforward and answer them efficiently. For more challenging questions, make educated guesses if you cannot solve them quickly, and flag them to revisit if time permits. Remember, accuracy trumps speed but pacing remains essential.

Another strategy is leveraging process of elimination to narrow answer choices rapidly. With fewer questions, even small improvements in guesswork can lead to significant score gains.

Familiarize yourself with common traps and distractors typical in verbal and quantitative questions. In reading comprehension, watch for answer choices that reflect extreme language or go beyond the passage scope. In math, double-check calculations and be alert to unit conversions and hidden assumptions.

Mastering Critical Reasoning and Data Interpretation on the GMAT Focus Edition

The GMAT Focus Edition places renewed emphasis on critical reasoning and data interpretation skills, especially with the introduction of the Data Insights section. Success here depends on your ability to dissect arguments and analyze complex data sets quickly and accurately.

For critical reasoning, practice breaking down arguments into premises and conclusions, evaluating assumptions, and identifying logical flaws. Developing this analytical lens helps in answering inference, strengthen/weaken, and evaluate-the-argument questions efficiently.

Data Insights challenges you to interpret graphs, tables, and mixed data sources while synthesizing multiple pieces of information. Enhance your skills by working through business cases and data sets beyond traditional math drills. Learning to identify trends, spot inconsistencies, and calculate relevant metrics swiftly will give you an advantage.

Incorporate timed drills that simulate the pace of the Data Insights section. Work on managing multiple steps of reasoning under time constraints to build confidence.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in the New GRE and GMAT Formats

The new test structures introduce novel challenges, and it is easy to fall into traps without proper preparation.

A frequent pitfall on the GRE Focus Edition is underestimating the impact of the removed unscored section. Since every question counts, careless errors or skipped questions disproportionately hurt your score. Avoid rushing through early questions just to finish quickly; instead, maintain focus and accuracy throughout.

On the GMAT Focus Edition, the temptation to spend too much time on the new Data Insights section can derail your pacing. Practice recognizing when a question is overly time-consuming and move on if needed.

Another trap is mismanaging the flexible section order on the GMAT. Some test-takers start with their weakest section due to nervousness or overconfidence. Choose the order that plays to your strengths and helps maintain momentum.

Familiarize yourself with the bookmarking feature but use it judiciously. Over-reliance can lead to wasted time revisiting questions unnecessarily.

Integrating Test Prep with Your Graduate or Business School Application

Achieving a competitive GRE or GMAT score is only part of a successful application. Integrating your test preparation with your overall application strategy creates a cohesive and compelling profile.

Start your test prep early enough to allow multiple practice cycles and avoid last-minute cramming. This approach reduces stress and improves retention.

Use your practice test results to identify weaknesses not only in test content but also in skills like time management and stress control. Develop a balanced plan that includes mental and physical well-being strategies alongside academic study.

Simultaneously, allocate time to develop your essays, letters of recommendation, and résumé or CV. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who show strong, consistent effort across all components.

Consider how your test scores align with your target schools’ profiles. Use your score reports strategically to select programs that match your abilities and ambitions.

Leveraging Official and Supplementary Study Resources

With the new GRE and GMAT formats, official prep materials may initially be limited. Nonetheless, relying on high-quality resources is essential for effective preparation.

ETS and GMAC will release official practice tests and guides tailored to the Focus Editions. Incorporate these into your study plan as soon as they are available to familiarize yourself with authentic question types and interface.

Complement official materials with reputable third-party resources that update their content to reflect the new exam structures. Select prep books, online courses, and question banks that emphasize skills tested in the Focus Editions, such as data interpretation and critical reasoning.

Participate in practice forums and study groups to gain insights into others’ strategies and challenges. Engaging with a community can provide motivation and diverse perspectives.

Avoid overloading on too many resources; quality and relevance matter more than quantity.

Managing Test Day with Confidence and Calm

Test day in the new GRE and GMAT formats demands mental preparation alongside academic readiness. Develop routines to ensure you arrive focused and composed.

Prepare all necessary documents, testing equipment, and identification in advance. Familiarize yourself with the testing center’s protocols and procedures.

Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises to manage anxiety before and during the exam. Break the test into manageable segments mentally, focusing on one section or question at a time.

Adopt a positive mindset that views challenges as opportunities to demonstrate your skills. Trust in your preparation and avoid second-guessing your answers once submitted, given the limited question revisits.

Plan your nutrition and hydration carefully to maintain energy and concentration.

Post-Test Reflection and Next Steps

After completing the new GRE or GMAT Focus Edition, reflect on your performance objectively. Regardless of the outcome, identify lessons learned to guide future efforts.

If you achieved your target score, focus on preparing your application materials and deadlines. If your score falls short, analyze which sections or question types need improvement and consider scheduling a retake if time allows.

Use score reports to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. Many testing platforms now provide detailed diagnostics that can inform your next steps.

Remember that test scores are only one part of your application. Continue building your experience, skills, and narrative to present a well-rounded candidacy.

Future Trends in Graduate and Business School Admissions Testing

The GRE and GMAT Focus Editions exemplify a broader trend in standardized testing toward efficiency, relevance, and adaptability.

As digital technologies evolve, future exams may further integrate interactive data analysis, adaptive questioning, and artificial intelligence to personalize assessments.

Admissions committees will likely continue valuing diverse competencies beyond raw scores, including leadership, creativity, and resilience.

Staying current with changes in testing formats and admissions criteria will remain essential for aspiring candidates.

Navigating the New GRE and GMAT Landscape

The shift to the GRE and GMAT Focus Editions marks a new era of graduate admissions testing. While the changes may initially seem daunting, they also present opportunities to demonstrate your critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and data literacy in more focused and relevant ways.

Approach your preparation with flexibility, discipline, and a strategic mindset. Use official materials and expert guidance to build targeted skills.

Most importantly, balance rigorous study with self-care and confidence. By embracing the new formats proactively, you position yourself to succeed and advance your academic and professional goals.

Conclusion:

The introduction of the GRE and GMAT Focus Editions represents a significant evolution in standardized testing, designed to better assess the skills most relevant to graduate and business school success. These streamlined formats, emphasizing critical reasoning, data interpretation, and analytical abilities, reflect the changing demands of academic and professional environments.

Throughout this series, we’ve explored the structural changes, new question types, and enhanced focus areas that define these updated exams. We’ve examined practical preparation strategies tailored to the condensed format, including time management, advanced test-taking techniques, and the integration of test prep with broader application goals.

Success in these new exams hinges on a combination of disciplined study, strategic pacing, and adaptability. Candidates must not only master content but also develop critical thinking and data literacy skills, while managing test-day stress and pacing effectively. Utilizing official resources alongside carefully chosen supplementary materials ensures a well-rounded preparation experience.

Moreover, the shift toward efficiency and relevance in testing mirrors broader trends in education and employment, where problem-solving, analytical insight, and communication skills are paramount. Preparing for these exams offers an opportunity to cultivate these competencies, benefiting both academic pursuits and future careers.

Finally, while test scores remain an important component of graduate and business school admissions, they are part of a holistic evaluation process. Applicants should integrate their test preparation within a comprehensive strategy that highlights their unique experiences, aspirations, and strengths.

By embracing these changes with confidence and a proactive mindset, prospective students can navigate the new GRE and GMAT landscape successfully. This not only opens doors to their desired programs but also equips them with essential skills for lifelong learning and professional achievement.