Navigating the Changes: What to Expect from the New GMAT Focus and Shorter GRE

The Graduate Management Admission Test, commonly known as the GMAT, has long served as a pivotal gateway for candidates aspiring to enter top business schools worldwide. In recent years, the test has undergone a significant transformation. The introduction of the GMAT Focus Edition marks a fundamental shift in the exam’s design, intended to better reflect the skills business schools deem most essential for future success. The new exam is shorter, more streamlined, and designed with a sharper emphasis on analytical reasoning and data interpretation skills.

This article explores the details of the GMAT Focus Edition—examining its new structure, content changes, and the strategic approaches candidates should adopt to maximize their performance.

Why the Change?

The original GMAT, in use for decades, was a lengthy and multifaceted exam composed of four main sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal Reasoning. While comprehensive, the exam’s length, often exceeding three hours, and the broad variety of question types sometimes distracted from measuring core business skills effectively.

Feedback from test takers and business schools indicated a desire for a more focused evaluation. Specifically, schools sought an exam that would assess critical thinking, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making in a manner more aligned with contemporary business environments. At the same time, many candidates found the original exam demanding in terms of endurance, often leading to mental fatigue that could affect performance.

In response, the Graduate Management Admission Council redesigned the GMAT, giving birth to the GMAT Focus Edition. The updated test promises a more efficient and relevant testing experience while maintaining the high standards of assessment that have made the GMAT a respected metric globally.

Overview of the New Exam Structure

The GMAT Focus Edition is considerably shorter than its predecessor, reducing the testing time from roughly three and a half hours to approximately two hours and fifteen minutes. This change reflects a deliberate effort to alleviate test fatigue and enhance focus throughout the exam.

Whereas the original GMAT had four sections, the Focus Edition comprises three distinct sections:

• Quantitative Reasoning
  
  
• Verbal Reasoning
  
  
• Data Insights
  
  

Each section is designed to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude in areas critical for business school success, yet the total duration and question load are calibrated to allow a concise yet comprehensive assessment.

Quantitative Reasoning Section

The Quantitative Reasoning section remains a cornerstone of the exam, assessing a candidate’s numerical problem-solving abilities, quantitative reasoning, and interpretation of graphical data. This section lasts 45 minutes, during which test takers encounter questions that challenge algebraic reasoning, arithmetic, and data sufficiency.

Notably, geometry questions, which were once a component of the original GMAT, have been removed to sharpen the focus on quantitative reasoning skills that are more relevant to contemporary business scenarios. The exam emphasizes interpretation of quantitative information and problem-solving over rote memorization or advanced mathematical theory.

Verbal Reasoning Section

The Verbal Reasoning section, also lasting 45 minutes, tests a candidate’s ability to analyze and comprehend written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written English where necessary. Compared to the previous version, this section has been refined to exclude sentence correction questions. The rationale behind this change is to prioritize reasoning and comprehension skills that mirror the types of communication and critical evaluation expected in business settings.

Candidates should expect a heavy focus on reading comprehension and critical reasoning questions, which assess understanding, inference, and argument analysis—skills essential for evaluating complex business texts and scenarios.

Data Insights Section

Perhaps the most notable addition to the GMAT Focus Edition is the Data Insights section. This 30-minute component replaces the former Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing Assessment segments, combining elements of both into a more concentrated focus on data interpretation and analysis.

The Data Insights section presents test takers with complex data sets, charts, graphs, and scenarios that require evaluation and synthesis. Candidates must analyze this information to draw conclusions, solve problems, and make data-driven decisions. This section reflects the increasing importance of data literacy and analytical thinking in business leadership roles.

What Is Removed and Why?

The GMAT Focus Edition eliminates the Analytical Writing Assessment and the traditional Integrated Reasoning section. The decision to remove the writing portion reflects the understanding that business schools often assess writing skills through other application materials such as essays and interviews.

Similarly, the Integrated Reasoning section has been folded into the new Data Insights section, streamlining the test while retaining the emphasis on analyzing complex information. By consolidating these areas, the exam reduces redundancy and focuses more sharply on actionable data interpretation.

The removal of sentence correction from the Verbal Reasoning section also signals a shift away from testing English language mechanics toward higher-order reasoning skills.

Adaptive Testing and Scoring Changes

The GMAT Focus Edition maintains a computer-adaptive testing (CAT) format, which means the difficulty of questions adjusts based on a test taker’s performance. This adaptive mechanism ensures a personalized assessment that accurately measures ability across all sections.

However, unlike the original GMAT’s adaptive structure that adjusted question difficulty within sections, the Focus Edition adopts an adaptive design at the section level. After completing a section, the next section’s difficulty is calibrated based on overall performance, allowing a more nuanced and fair evaluation.

Regarding scoring, the new test reports scores on a scale from 205 to 305. This contrasts with the previous total GMAT score range of 200 to 800. The new scale simplifies interpretation, though schools are actively working to recalibrate their admissions criteria around this new scoring model.

Strategic Implications for Test Preparation

The changes introduced with the GMAT Focus Edition necessitate an updated approach to preparation. Candidates must adapt study strategies to the new format, content emphases, and timing constraints.

Prioritize Analytical and Data Skills

With the advent of the Data Insights section and the emphasis on critical reasoning in the verbal portion, test takers should allocate significant study time to analytical thinking and data interpretation. Familiarity with diverse data presentation styles, such as tables, charts, and graphs, is crucial.

Practicing questions that require synthesizing information from multiple sources will help develop the agility needed to excel in this section.

Adapt to Shorter, More Intense Sections

The reduced time per section means pacing is critical. Unlike the longer original GMAT, the Focus Edition demands sustained concentration and quick decision-making. Time management drills, simulated practice tests, and focused review sessions will help candidates build stamina and efficiency.

Update Study Materials

Because the GMAT Focus Edition excludes certain question types, such as sentence correction and geometry, study materials and practice tests designed for the previous format will be less effective. Candidates should seek out updated resources explicitly aligned with the new exam blueprint to avoid wasting time on obsolete content.

Practice Adaptive Testing Strategies

Understanding the section-level adaptive nature of the test can inform strategic test-taking. Since section difficulty adjusts based on performance, early accuracy in the test is important. Building confidence with foundational question types before tackling more challenging ones can help maximize scoring potential.

Mental and Physical Preparation

Though shorter, the new exam remains challenging. Test takers should prepare mentally and physically to maintain focus through intense question sequences. Techniques such as mindfulness, regular breaks during study, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to optimal test day performance.

The New GMAT Focus Edition in the Admissions Landscape

Business schools are enthusiastic about the revamped GMAT, recognizing its alignment with modern curricula and job requirements. Many programs have already recalibrated their admissions processes to interpret the new scores effectively.

While some uncertainty exists as schools transition, the overall consensus is that the GMAT Focus Edition better reflects candidates’ readiness for graduate management education. Its emphasis on analytical prowess, critical thinking, and data literacy aligns with what business schools seek in their incoming cohorts.

For test takers, understanding these shifts and preparing accordingly will be key to standing out in the increasingly competitive admissions environment.

The GMAT Focus Edition represents a thoughtful evolution of one of the most important graduate admission tests. By reducing length, concentrating on key skills, and adopting a more adaptive design, the new exam seeks to measure what truly matters in business education and careers.

Candidates facing this new test should embrace a tailored preparation approach that emphasizes analytical reasoning, data interpretation, and strategic pacing. With the right mindset and study regimen, the GMAT Focus Edition offers an opportunity to demonstrate readiness for the complex challenges of business school and beyond.

The Shorter GRE: What Has Changed and How It Affects Test Takers

The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, has been a longstanding standardized test widely accepted by graduate and business schools around the world. Similar to the recent overhaul of the GMAT, the GRE has also undergone a significant transformation aimed at modernizing the test experience and reducing the overall burden on test takers. The introduction of the shorter GRE format brings fundamental changes to the exam’s length, structure, and content focus, making it more streamlined and accessible.

This article explores what the new shorter GRE entails, the differences from the traditional exam, and how these changes affect candidates preparing for graduate admissions.

Why a Shorter GRE?

The GRE was historically a rigorous exam spanning over three hours, which often tested endurance as much as aptitude. The lengthy duration posed challenges for many test takers, especially those balancing work, school, and personal commitments.

Recognizing these concerns, the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE, announced plans to shorten the exam without sacrificing the quality and depth of assessment. The goal was to create a more efficient testing process that evaluates core skills more effectively while reducing fatigue and stress.

The shorter GRE format reflects broader trends in standardized testing that favor brevity and relevance, aligning with evolving educational standards and candidate feedback.

Overview of the Shorter GRE Format

The new GRE format reduces the total testing time to approximately two hours, compared to the previous duration of around three hours and forty-five minutes. This reduction is achieved by condensing sections and adjusting the number of questions per section.

The exam still comprises the three primary areas of assessment:

• Verbal Reasoning
  
  
• Quantitative Reasoning
  
  
• Analytical Writing

However, each section is now shorter and more focused.

Verbal Reasoning Section

The Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE assesses a candidate’s ability to analyze and evaluate written material, understand complex vocabulary in context, and reason critically. This section traditionally included reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence questions.

In the shorter GRE, the Verbal Reasoning section is now divided into two shorter subsections, each lasting about 30 minutes. Together, they feature fewer questions than before, reducing redundancy but maintaining the core skills tested.

The questions continue to emphasize vocabulary in context, the ability to analyze written arguments, and interpret nuances in passages, all critical for success in graduate-level reading and writing.

Quantitative Reasoning Section

Quantitative Reasoning evaluates mathematical skills and the ability to solve quantitative problems, interpret data, and apply quantitative concepts. Like the Verbal section, the Quantitative section is split into two shorter parts of approximately 30 minutes each.

The question types remain largely consistent with the previous GRE, including problem-solving, quantitative comparison, and data interpretation. However, the total number of questions has been trimmed to allow a more focused and less exhausting assessment.

This change reflects a desire to test mathematical reasoning efficiently without overloading test takers with lengthy question sets.

Analytical Writing Section

The Analytical Writing section, which requires test takers to write essays analyzing an argument and an issue, remains an essential component. Unlike the Verbal and Quantitative sections, it has not been shortened but restructured for clarity and fairness.

The writing tasks evaluate critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential for graduate school success. Candidates are expected to demonstrate their ability to construct coherent, persuasive arguments and support them with relevant evidence.

Though this section remains unchanged in length, it now receives more emphasis as a distinct demonstration of written communication abilities, which schools value highly.

What Was Removed or Adjusted?

Several components of the previous GRE format have been revised or eliminated to accommodate the shorter exam length.

One significant change is the removal of the experimental or unscored sections. Previously, test takers were sometimes given additional questions that did not count toward their score but were used for future test development. These experimental sections added to the overall length and uncertainty of the exam experience.

By removing these, the shorter GRE offers a more transparent and predictable test experience, helping candidates better manage their time and energy.

Additionally, some question types that appeared less frequently or were considered less effective at differentiating skill levels have been reduced in number or eliminated. For example, certain complex quantitative comparison questions have been streamlined, focusing on problem-solving that is more applicable to real-world scenarios.

Implications for Test Preparation

The introduction of the shorter GRE has significant implications for how candidates approach their study plans.

Adjusting Study Time and Focus

With the overall exam duration reduced, test takers may find that preparation can be more targeted and efficient. While the GRE remains challenging, candidates can allocate study time more strategically, focusing on the most frequently tested question types and core skills.

However, the reduced number of questions per section means that every question carries more weight. Accuracy becomes even more critical, so test takers must develop strong problem-solving techniques and carefully manage their pacing.

Practice With Updated Materials

Just as with the GMAT, test prep materials for the GRE have evolved. Candidates should seek out practice questions and full-length practice tests that reflect the new exam format to ensure they are familiar with the pacing and content focus.

Practicing with outdated materials may lead to unnecessary time spent on question types no longer emphasized, reducing preparation efficiency.

Emphasis on Critical Reasoning and Reading

The Verbal Reasoning section continues to prioritize reading comprehension and critical analysis. Candidates should engage with a wide range of texts—including academic articles, opinion pieces, and complex narratives—to sharpen their comprehension and reasoning skills.

Vocabulary remains important, but understanding context and inference has gained more prominence in the new exam design.

Strengthening Quantitative Foundations

Quantitative preparation should emphasize conceptual understanding and real-world application rather than rote memorization. The shorter GRE tests core math skills but expects test takers to interpret data and apply logic effectively.

Using data sets and charts, as well as problem-solving in timed practice sessions, will build the skills needed to perform confidently.

Maintaining Writing Proficiency

The Analytical Writing section, while unchanged in length, demands careful attention. Candidates should practice writing clear, concise, and well-structured essays under timed conditions.

Developing a formula for organizing arguments and refining editing skills can help maximize performance on this section.

How the Shorter GRE Fits Into Graduate Admissions

Graduate programs continue to accept the GRE widely, and the shorter format has been embraced positively by both admissions committees and candidates. The more efficient test reduces the barrier of time commitment and stress, potentially broadening the pool of applicants.

Admissions officers recognize that the core competencies tested remain rigorous, and the changes enhance the exam’s ability to measure readiness for graduate-level study. Many schools have updated their admissions guidelines and score equivalencies to accommodate the shorter format.

For applicants, it is important to communicate clearly with prospective programs about the new test and understand any specific requirements or preferences related to GRE scores.

Comparing the Shorter GRE to the Previous Format

Though the shorter GRE reduces testing time by nearly a third, it retains the exam’s core strengths. The elimination of experimental questions and adjustments to section lengths provide a more focused and transparent experience.

Candidates may notice the new format feels brisker and more demanding in terms of maintaining concentration. However, this can be advantageous by keeping engagement high and reducing fatigue-related errors.

Some test takers may appreciate the clearer structure and the removal of extraneous content, which allows for more strategic studying and test-taking.

Final Recommendations for Test Takers

To excel on the shorter GRE, candidates should take a disciplined and strategic approach:

• Use updated practice materials that reflect the new exam format to develop familiarity with pacing and question styles.
  
  
• Focus on accuracy and efficiency since the fewer number of questions increases the stakes for each item.
  
  
• Build strong reading comprehension and critical reasoning skills through diverse academic reading and targeted exercises.
  
  
• Reinforce fundamental quantitative skills, emphasizing data interpretation and problem-solving under time constraints.
  
  
• Practice writing clear, concise essays for the Analytical Writing section, honing organization and argumentation.
  
  
• Simulate test-day conditions with full-length practice exams to develop stamina and pacing strategies.

With thoughtful preparation and understanding of the new format, candidates can confidently navigate the shorter GRE and present themselves as strong contenders in graduate admissions.

Comparing the New GMAT Focus and Shorter GRE: Which Test Is Right for You?

With both the GMAT undergoing a transformation into the new GMAT Focus format and the GRE adopting a shorter, more streamlined structure, prospective graduate and business school applicants face an important question: which exam best aligns with their goals, strengths, and target programs? This article examines key differences and similarities between the two tests, helping candidates make informed decisions about their preparation and admissions strategy.

Purpose and Acceptance of the GMAT Focus and GRE

The GMAT Focus is primarily designed for candidates applying to business schools and MBA programs, though it is also accepted by some specialized master’s programs. The test emphasizes skills relevant to business management, decision-making, and analytical reasoning.

The GRE, administered by ETS, serves a broader purpose. It is accepted by thousands of graduate programs across disciplines, including business schools, humanities, sciences, engineering, and social sciences. The GRE’s versatility makes it attractive to candidates who may be considering multiple graduate fields or are unsure of their exact path.

Understanding these differences in target audiences is crucial when deciding between the two exams.

Exam Structure and Content Comparison

The GMAT Focus and the shorter GRE have both reduced their test lengths to approximately two hours, but their structures and content emphases differ.

Verbal Sections

Both tests assess verbal reasoning, comprehension, and critical thinking, but they do so in distinct ways.

The GMAT Focus verbal section centers on evaluating reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction. Sentence correction tests grammar, usage, and clarity—skills particularly relevant to business communication.

The GRE verbal section focuses more on vocabulary in context, reading comprehension, and analytical reasoning. It includes text completion and sentence equivalence questions, which test nuanced understanding of language.

Candidates with a strong grammar foundation might prefer the GMAT Focus, while those who excel at vocabulary and inference may find the GRE verbal section more approachable.

Quantitative Sections

Quantitative reasoning is a core component of both tests, but the GMAT Focus emphasizes data analysis, problem-solving, and reasoning with charts and graphs. It includes real-world scenarios to assess quantitative literacy and decision-making.

The GRE quantitative section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis but also incorporates quantitative comparison questions unique to the GRE. These compare two quantities and ask test takers to determine their relationship, requiring flexible mathematical thinking.

Applicants with solid foundational math skills and comfort interpreting data in applied contexts may lean toward the GMAT Focus. Those who enjoy abstract mathematical puzzles might prefer the GRE.

Analytical Writing and Reasoning

The GRE maintains the Analytical Writing section, requiring candidates to write two essays analyzing an issue and an argument. This section is unchanged in the shorter GRE format and tests written communication and critical thinking.

The GMAT Focus replaces traditional essay writing with integrated reasoning tasks that measure the ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats. While the GMAT Focus no longer includes a separate writing section, the integrated reasoning component provides an alternative measure of analytical skills.

Applicants who prioritize demonstrating written communication may find the GRE’s essay section advantageous, while those who prefer interactive problem-solving might appreciate the GMAT Focus integrated reasoning.

Scoring Differences and Reporting

The scoring scales and how scores are reported differ between the GMAT Focus and GRE, influencing how admissions committees interpret results.

The GMAT Focus returns a total score between 200 and 800, with separate scores for verbal, quantitative, and integrated reasoning sections. The scoring algorithm places significant weight on accuracy and speed.

The GRE provides separate scores for verbal reasoning (130-170), quantitative reasoning (130-170), and analytical writing (0-6). Schools often consider the individual section scores along with the overall performance.

Understanding how your target programs weigh scores can guide your test choice. Some business schools prefer the GMAT score, while others accept GRE scores equivalently.

Test Format and Delivery

Both exams are computer-based and adaptive to varying degrees, but the approach differs.

The GMAT Focus uses computer adaptive testing (CAT) at the section level, adjusting difficulty based on performance. The adaptive nature requires strategic pacing and precision.

The GRE uses a multistage adaptive format, adjusting the difficulty of the second section of verbal and quantitative based on the first section’s performance.

Test takers should practice with the specific adaptive format they choose, as strategic time management and question prioritization vary accordingly.

Preparation Strategies for Each Test

Given the content and format differences, preparation for the GMAT Focus and shorter GRE requires tailored approaches.

Preparing for the GMAT Focus

• Focus on grammar, sentence correction, and business-oriented verbal skills.
  
  
• Build strong quantitative skills emphasizing data analysis, charts, and applied math.
  
  
• Practice integrated reasoning tasks and real-world problem-solving scenarios.
  
  
• Take timed practice tests simulating the CAT format for pacing and endurance.
  
  
• Develop strategies for precision and efficiency, as speed influences scoring.
  
  

Preparing for the Shorter GRE

• Expand vocabulary and practice text completion and sentence equivalence questions.
  
  
• Strengthen reading comprehension across diverse academic topics.
  
  
• Review fundamental math concepts and quantitative comparison problems.
  
  
• Hone analytical writing skills through regular essay practice.
  
  
• Use practice tests with the multistage adaptive format to optimize pacing.

Advantages and Challenges of the GMAT Focus

The new GMAT Focus streamlines the test experience while enhancing business relevance. It reduces test length significantly and removes some older question types considered less relevant.

Advantages include a sharper focus on skills crucial for business success, integrated reasoning that simulates real-world data evaluation, and a testing experience designed for modern candidates.

Challenges include adapting to the new format, which may require fresh study materials and adjusting to the adaptive nature of the exam. The removal of the essay may be a downside for candidates wanting to showcase written communication directly.

Advantages and Challenges of the Shorter GRE

The shorter GRE’s main advantage is its versatility, opening doors to a wide range of graduate programs. The reduced length makes the test less daunting and more accessible.

Its emphasis on vocabulary and critical reading supports success in many disciplines, and the maintained Analytical Writing section allows candidates to demonstrate communication skills clearly.

However, some candidates find the vocabulary-heavy verbal section challenging, especially non-native English speakers. The math content, while fundamental, includes unique question types like quantitative comparison that require specific strategies.

How to Choose Between the GMAT Focus and Shorter GRE

Choosing between the GMAT Focus and the shorter GRE depends on several factors:

• Program Requirements: Check if your target schools prefer one test over the other. Business schools typically favor the GMAT, but many accept the GRE. Non-business programs often require the GRE.
  
  
• Career Goals: Candidates aiming for an MBA or business-focused graduate program may benefit from the GMAT Focus. Those exploring broader graduate studies or interdisciplinary fields might prefer the GRE.
  
  
• Strengths and Weaknesses: Assess your skills in verbal, quantitative, and writing areas. Choose the exam that plays to your strengths while giving you the best chance to improve weaker areas.
  
  
• Test Experience Preference: Consider whether you prefer the GMAT’s integrated reasoning and CAT format or the GRE’s multistage adaptive testing and analytical writing essays.
  
  
• Preparation Resources: Availability of quality study materials and practice tests aligned with each test’s new format should influence your choice.

Final Thoughts: 

Both the new GMAT Focus and shorter GRE reflect evolving standards in graduate admissions testing, focusing on relevance, efficiency, and candidate experience. These changes aim to make exams more accessible without compromising the rigorous evaluation of critical skills.

Prospective test takers should embrace these innovations by understanding the nuances of each exam and aligning their preparation and application strategies accordingly.

With thorough preparation, clarity about goals, and awareness of each test’s unique features, candidates can approach either the GMAT Focus or the shorter GRE with confidence, paving the way for successful graduate admissions.