The Ultimate Guide to Excelling in the GMAT Focus Edition and GRE
Since September 2023, two pivotal standardized tests for business school admissions—the GMAT and the GRE—have undergone significant transformations. These changes have introduced a fresh dynamic into the admissions landscape, impacting not only test-takers but also admissions committees and test preparation professionals. The introduction of the GMAT Focus Edition and the revamped GRE have brought new structures, scoring systems, and content emphases that can initially seem perplexing. This evolving terrain requires prospective MBA candidates to rethink their test strategies carefully.
With these recent changes, candidates frequently ask questions regarding the differences between the new GMAT Focus Edition and the GRE, the nature of updated test preparation materials, and ultimately which exam they should choose. Drawing on extensive experience advising MBA applicants, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding these tests, their key updates, and how to select the best fit for your individual strengths and goals.
What Is New in the GMAT Focus Edition?
The GMAT Focus Edition, launched in November 2023, is a shorter, more streamlined version of the traditional GMAT. This new format is designed to assess core skills while offering greater flexibility and efficiency for test-takers.
The Focus Edition consists of three sections instead of the four found in the traditional GMAT. The Quantitative Reasoning section now includes 21 questions, down from 31, while Verbal Reasoning features 23 questions, reduced from 36. The biggest change is the introduction of the Data Insights section, which has 20 questions that combine elements of data sufficiency and integrated reasoning from the old test. The Data Insights section emphasizes analyzing and interpreting data rather than pure calculation.
One significant removal in the Focus Edition is the elimination of grammar, sentence correction, and the analytical writing assessment (the essay). Additionally, most geometry questions have been removed from the Quantitative section. Data sufficiency questions, previously part of the Quant section, now appear exclusively in the Data Insights segment, highlighting a shift toward data analysis and critical thinking.
Test-takers also gain more control with the GMAT Focus Edition’s flexible test structure. Candidates can choose the order in which they complete the three sections, and the test allows flagging of questions to revisit them later if time permits. This autonomy can help reduce test anxiety and improve time management.
Scoring has also been adjusted in the Focus Edition. Scores now range from 205 to 805, incremented by fives, which helps admissions committees distinguish new scores from those earned on the older exam. The availability of both the old and new GMAT versions ended in early 2024, so from now on, all candidates take the Focus Edition.
How Has the GRE Changed?
The GRE underwent a major revision in September 2023 as well, primarily aimed at shortening the exam length without compromising its rigor.
The revised GRE is now a two-hour test, down from the previous four-hour format. To achieve this reduction, the essay section was removed, as was the experimental section, which used to appear unscored.
The number of questions in both the verbal and quantitative sections has been reduced. Verbal questions decreased from 40 to 27, and quantitative questions also dropped from 40 to 27. Despite the reduction in question count, the types of content tested remain largely consistent with the previous version, covering vocabulary, reading comprehension, quantitative problem-solving, and data interpretation.
The GRE retains its reputation as a broadly applicable graduate admissions test, accepted by many programs beyond business schools. Its changes primarily focus on efficiency and streamlined testing.
Comparing the GMAT Focus Edition and GRE
Historically, the GRE was considered more challenging in verbal reasoning, while the GMAT was thought to have tougher quantitative problems. However, with the recent updates, the lines between the two tests have blurred considerably.
Test prep veterans note that the GRE has seen an increase in the difficulty of math questions over the past five years, bringing it closer to the GMAT’s level of quantitative rigor. Simultaneously, the GMAT Focus Edition’s removal of grammar and sentence correction, combined with the introduction of the Data Insights section, aligns it more closely with the GRE’s style.
One expert from a prominent test preparation agency commented that the two exams are now converging in format and difficulty, making the choice less about the inherent difficulty of each test and more about personal fit.
While it is still early to draw definitive conclusions—given the limited data from candidates who have taken the new exams—initial feedback shows that test-takers appreciate the elimination of the sentence correction component in the GMAT Focus Edition. Some find the math more challenging but recognize this may stem from unfamiliarity with the new question types rather than an increase in difficulty per se.
Ultimately, rather than asking which test is harder, it is more important to identify which exam aligns better with your strengths, test-taking style, and academic background.
What Are Your Testing Options Now?
The GRE transition to its new format was immediate, so all recent GRE test-takers have taken the shorter, two-hour exam. The GMAT Focus Edition was introduced with a transition period allowing candidates to choose between the traditional and new versions until early 2024. Now, only the Focus Edition is available.
Applicants looking to apply to business schools today must choose between the GMAT Focus Edition, the GRE, or, in some cases, the Executive Assessment (EA). The EA is a specialized test for Executive MBA programs and is less widely accepted than the GMAT or GRE.
Most U.S. business schools do not express a preference between the GMAT and GRE and will accept scores from either exam equally. This openness means candidates should focus on selecting the test that suits their abilities rather than attempting to predict school preferences.
It is essential to verify the specific admissions requirements for each MBA program you plan to apply to, especially regarding the EA, which some programs accept only for executive or part-time tracks.
What Test Preparation Resources Are Available?
Preparing for the revised GRE is relatively straightforward since the content remains consistent with prior versions. Candidates should focus on mastering the updated exam format, pacing, and technical features to use their time efficiently. Many practice tests and coaching resources remain relevant with minor adjustments.
For the GMAT Focus Edition, preparation resources are still emerging. The Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC), which administers the GMAT, offers official prep materials through MBA.com. While some links may currently be inactive, the repository of official practice questions and practice exams will expand rapidly as test prep companies adapt.
Test preparation providers are actively developing tailored study programs based on new practice exams and real test experiences. Candidates preparing for the GMAT Focus Edition should look for updated materials and guidance from trusted tutors and coaches.
Developing Your Best Test Strategy
If you have previously earned a strong GMAT score within the last five years, you do not need to retake the exam, as schools continue to accept these scores. GMAC has confirmed the validity of scores for five years post-test date and provides a concordance table to interpret old and new scores alongside percentile rankings.
For those starting their MBA admissions journey now, the best advice remains to select the test that suits your individual strengths and preferences. Given the changes, the following approach is recommended:
Take a full-length diagnostic test of both the GRE and GMAT Focus Edition on separate days to avoid fatigue. This exercise will help you gauge your comfort level with each exam’s format and content.
Evaluate not just the scores but also how you felt during the test — which exam felt more intuitive or manageable?
If you have a clear preference for one exam, focus your study efforts there.
If you feel equally comfortable with both, consider the availability and quality of study materials and seek advice from experienced tutors.
Both tests use adaptive technology, adjusting question difficulty based on your performance. The shorter format may introduce more variability in scores, meaning that a single answer can significantly impact your overall results. Allow ample time in your application schedule for multiple test attempts if needed.
Because the GMAT Focus Edition has a new scoring range, raw scores may not translate directly between old and new versions. Focus on percentile ranks as a more reliable indicator of competitiveness.
It is normal to feel apprehensive when facing a revised exam format. Standardized tests periodically undergo changes, and the initial uncertainty typically resolves as test-takers and test prep providers become more familiar with the new versions.
Experience shows that shifts in test dominance often occur during transitions. For instance, when the SAT was revised, many students briefly switched to the ACT due to more readily available prep resources. Over time, balance was restored.
Admissions teams at top business schools are well-prepared to evaluate new GMAT Focus Edition scores fairly. Experts at prestigious programs affirm that percentiles will continue to serve as reliable benchmarks for candidate selection.
Remember, every applicant faces the same updated challenges. With thorough preparation and strategic planning, you can confidently approach whichever exam you choose.
Understanding the Section-by-Section Breakdown of the GMAT Focus Edition
Delving deeper into the GMAT Focus Edition reveals how its three distinct sections test crucial skills for business school success. The Quantitative Reasoning section focuses on numeric problem solving but with a tighter scope than the traditional GMAT. By removing many geometry questions, the test now emphasizes arithmetic, algebra, and word problems, reflecting the kinds of calculations often encountered in real-world business contexts.
The Verbal Reasoning section no longer tests grammar or sentence correction. Instead, it centers on reading comprehension and critical reasoning. This aligns with MBA programs’ increasing emphasis on strategic thinking and evaluating arguments rather than nitpicking grammatical precision.
The new Data Insights section is perhaps the most innovative element. It combines aspects of integrated reasoning and data sufficiency from the older GMAT format into one cohesive segment. Test-takers encounter charts, graphs, and tables, then answer questions requiring data interpretation, analysis, and decision-making. This section is meant to mimic real-life business situations where data is complex and not always straightforward, requiring both quantitative and qualitative assessment.
Because candidates can choose the order of these sections, a common strategy is to start with the section that plays to their strengths or confidence level. For example, a test-taker who excels at numbers might begin with Quantitative Reasoning to build momentum.
Detailed Analysis of the GRE’s Updated Format and Content
The GRE’s revision aimed to preserve its broad graduate admissions utility while significantly reducing test duration. The two-hour format demands faster pacing and sharp focus. Verbal Reasoning continues to test vocabulary through context clues, reading comprehension, and text completion, but with fewer questions. The reduction means every question carries more weight, which can increase pressure but also rewards precise preparation.
Quantitative Reasoning remains mathematically similar, with arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation. However, test-takers report that the updated GRE includes some higher-level math questions, reflecting a modest increase in challenge that narrows the gap with the GMAT’s quantitative rigor.
Unlike the GMAT Focus Edition, the GRE did not introduce a new section focused exclusively on data analysis. Instead, its Quantitative section integrates all numeric content as before. The essay or Analytical Writing Assessment was removed, which some candidates may find liberating, but others might miss the opportunity to demonstrate analytical writing skills.
Test-takers must adapt to the new timing and question formats by taking practice tests that mirror the shorter length and updated question types.
The Role of Test Adaptivity in Both Exams
One hallmark of modern standardized testing is adaptivity—the test adjusts question difficulty in real time based on your answers. Both the GMAT Focus Edition and GRE employ adaptive technology, but their implementations differ.
The GMAT Focus Edition uses a section-level adaptivity model, meaning question difficulty adjusts based on your performance within each section. Correct answers lead to harder questions, while mistakes result in easier ones. This adaptive process hones in on your skill level efficiently.
The GRE uses a multi-stage adaptive approach. It groups questions into sets, and your performance in the first set determines the difficulty of the subsequent set. This staged adaptivity offers a balance between personalized challenge and content coverage.
Adaptive testing means every question is important. Because of the shorter format of both exams, missing even a single question can impact your final score more significantly than before. Test-takers should develop strong time management skills and strategic guessing techniques to optimize outcomes.
How to Choose Between the GMAT Focus Edition and the GRE for Your MBA Application
Choosing between these two updated exams depends largely on your personal profile, strengths, and the requirements of your target programs.
If your quantitative skills are strong and you enjoy working with data and numbers, the GMAT Focus Edition’s Quantitative and Data Insights sections may be more aligned with your abilities. The test’s emphasis on data analysis reflects core business competencies valued by many top MBA programs.
Conversely, if your verbal reasoning and reading comprehension are your strengths, or if you prefer a test with a broader graduate school acceptance, the GRE might be the better choice. Its verbal section still demands strong vocabulary and critical thinking but without the intense focus on data interpretation found in the GMAT Focus Edition.
Another consideration is preparation resources and test availability. The GRE is widely available globally and has a long-established training ecosystem. The GMAT Focus Edition is newer, and while preparation materials are increasing, they are less abundant than for the traditional GMAT or GRE.
Additionally, if you have a prior GRE score that you are happy with and it is recent, many MBA programs will accept it alongside or instead of a GMAT Focus Edition score. It’s prudent to check each school’s specific admissions policies.
Effective Study Plans for the GMAT Focus Edition
Given the GMAT Focus Edition’s new format, candidates should adjust their preparation strategies accordingly.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the new question types, particularly in the Data Insights section. Since this section is unique to the Focus Edition, mastering interpreting data from multiple sources, including tables, graphs, and charts, is critical.
Incorporate practice sessions that mimic the flexible section order and timed conditions to build endurance and test-day stamina.
Leverage official GMAC materials and updated prep books that reflect the Focus Edition’s structure. Many test prep companies are releasing new courses and question banks tailored to this version, so choose resources that specifically address the latest format.
Focus on conceptual understanding and analytical reasoning rather than memorization or drill-and-kill approaches. The GMAT Focus Edition rewards candidates who can think critically and apply reasoning skills under time pressure.
Seek coaching or join study groups if possible. Explaining concepts to others and sharing insights can deepen understanding and improve retention.
Recommended Study Approaches for the Updated GRE
For the GRE, focus on sharpening your verbal skills, particularly vocabulary in context, and practice with dense reading passages to enhance comprehension speed.
Since the test is shorter, practice pacing yourself carefully. Time management is even more crucial when each question accounts for a larger percentage of the total score.
Quantitative preparation should include revisiting core math fundamentals but also tackling more challenging problems to keep pace with the slight increase in difficulty.
Use official ETS practice materials updated for the new format, along with third-party resources that simulate the revised test length and question mix.
Simulate full-length tests regularly to build stamina and adjust your test-taking rhythm to the compressed timeline.
The Importance of Taking Diagnostic Tests Early
A critical early step for any MBA applicant is to take official diagnostic tests of both the GMAT Focus Edition and the GRE. These initial practice exams provide invaluable insight into your strengths, weaknesses, and comfort level with each exam format.
By analyzing your diagnostic scores and experiences, you can make an informed decision about which test aligns better with your skills and strategic preferences.
Moreover, diagnostics help you establish a realistic baseline score and identify specific areas for improvement. Tailoring your study plan based on this data improves efficiency and maximizes score gains.
Don’t hesitate to retake diagnostics after several weeks of preparation to track progress and adjust tactics.
Handling Test Anxiety and Building Mental Resilience
The new format and adaptivity of both exams can be sources of stress. Candidates often worry about the pressure of each question carrying more weight and the shorter testing duration.
Developing mental resilience is therefore as important as academic preparation.
Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, controlled breathing, and visualization can reduce anxiety and improve focus during study and on test day.
Simulating test conditions at home or in a testing center helps familiarize your mind and body with the exam environment.
Scheduling breaks during study sessions and ensuring adequate sleep, nutrition, and exercise will support sustained cognitive performance.
Seeking support from peers, mentors, or counselors can provide encouragement and coping strategies.
Planning for Multiple Test Attempts and Score Improvement
Given the shorter formats and adaptive scoring, some candidates may benefit from multiple test attempts.
Both the GMAT Focus Edition and GRE allow retakes, but candidates should space these attempts strategically to allow time for focused study and score improvement.
It’s important to review score reporting policies of your target MBA programs, as some may consider the highest score while others use an average or most recent score.
Preparing a timeline that incorporates potential retests ensures you meet application deadlines with your best possible scores.
Embrace the Change and Prepare Strategically
The GMAT Focus Edition and the updated GRE represent a new era in graduate admissions testing. While their changes may seem daunting initially, they reflect broader trends toward efficient, data-driven assessment of key skills.
Success comes from understanding these changes, choosing the test best suited to your abilities, and developing a tailored, disciplined preparation plan.
Candidates who adapt quickly, focus on mastering new question types, and build mental toughness will position themselves strongly in the competitive MBA admissions landscape.
we will explore concrete test-taking strategies, common pitfalls to avoid, and tips from top scorers that can help you maximize your results on either exam.
Proven Test-Taking Strategies for the GMAT Focus Edition
Effective test-taking on the GMAT Focus Edition starts with a strategic approach to each section. Since you can select the order of the three sections, it is wise to begin with the one where you feel most confident. This can help build momentum and reduce anxiety early in the exam.
During the Quantitative Reasoning section, carefully read each problem to identify relevant data. Because the section now excludes many geometry problems, focus on algebraic manipulation and word problem interpretation. Make use of the on-screen calculator sparingly; sometimes mental math or estimation speeds up responses.
The Verbal Reasoning section requires careful reading and logical analysis. Since sentence correction is no longer tested, allocate more time to understanding arguments and drawing inferences from passages. Practice recognizing common logical fallacies and assumptions that underlie argument structures.
The Data Insights section is unique to this exam. Here, it is essential to quickly interpret tables, graphs, and charts. Avoid getting bogged down in minutiae; instead, focus on extracting key trends and relationships. Practice exercises involving data sufficiency and interpretation will build your proficiency.
Across all sections, pacing is critical. The shorter test length means that spending too long on a single question can detrimentally impact your overall score. Develop an instinct for when to guess and move on if a question proves too time-consuming.
Top Tips for Navigating the Updated GRE
For the GRE, managing the shorter two-hour timeframe is paramount. Begin by attacking the verbal section with a clear strategy. Familiarize yourself with common vocabulary used in context and hone your ability to deduce meanings from sentence structure and surrounding text.
In quantitative problems, review foundational concepts thoroughly, but also practice advanced problems to avoid surprises. Be comfortable with data interpretation questions, as these remain a staple.
Time management requires rigorous practice with timed full-length tests, since every question now carries more weight. Use process-of-elimination strategies to increase your odds on tougher questions.
While the Analytical Writing Assessment was removed, cultivating concise analytical thinking remains valuable. Practice summarizing complex arguments or data succinctly in preparation for interview or essay components of MBA applications.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls on Both Exams
Many candidates fall into predictable traps when preparing for and taking these exams.
One frequent mistake is underestimating the new Data Insights section on the GMAT Focus Edition. Because it is a novel component, some test-takers neglect focused practice, resulting in unexpected difficulties. Prioritize regular drills with diverse data formats to build confidence.
Another pitfall is failing to adapt to the shorter test duration. Traditional pacing strategies may not apply, leading to rushed or incomplete answers. Regularly simulate the exact test conditions to acclimate your timing.
Some test-takers rely too heavily on memorization of formulas or vocabulary without understanding underlying concepts. Both exams emphasize reasoning over rote learning, so conceptual clarity is crucial.
Overanalyzing difficult questions can lead to wasted time and increased stress. Develop an exit strategy that allows you to skip and return if time permits.
Lastly, ignoring mental and physical wellness can undermine performance. Ensure adequate rest, hydration, and breaks during preparation to maintain peak cognitive function.
Leveraging Practice Tests to Maximize Scores
Practice tests remain the single most effective tool for exam readiness. Take official GMAT Focus Edition and GRE practice exams under timed, simulated conditions.
After each test, conduct a thorough review to identify question types that cause difficulties and recurring mistakes. Adjust your study plan to focus on these areas.
Track your progress over time to stay motivated and refine strategies. Use analytics provided by some prep platforms to understand performance patterns and adaptive tendencies.
Incorporate mixed practice sessions to mimic the unpredictable question order and difficulty. This prepares you mentally for the adaptive nature of both exams.
Additionally, practice tests improve endurance and reduce test-day anxiety by familiarizing you with the exam format, timing, and interface.
How Technology and Prep Resources Can Enhance Your Study
Modern technology offers a wealth of resources tailored to the GMAT Focus Edition and updated GRE.Mobile apps provide on-the-go practice with flashcards, timed quizzes, and vocabulary drills, fitting study into busy schedules.
Online video tutorials can demystify challenging concepts with visual explanations and expert guidance.Adaptive learning platforms customize question difficulty and topics based on your performance, optimizing study efficiency.Virtual study groups and forums enable collaboration, peer support, and sharing of strategies.
Make sure to prioritize materials explicitly updated for the new exam formats to avoid wasted effort on outdated content.
Consider investing in personalized coaching if you find self-study challenging or seek expert insight into test strategies.
Real-Life Success Stories: Lessons from Top Scorers
Many test-takers have navigated these new exams successfully and offer valuable lessons.
One high scorer emphasized starting with the Data Insights section on the GMAT Focus Edition to capitalize on their data interpretation strengths and build confidence early.Another candidate preparing for the GRE found that integrating daily vocabulary practice with timed reading exercises improved verbal scores dramatically.
Several MBA admits credit their success to disciplined practice tests combined with mental conditioning techniques like mindfulness to manage exam stress.Flexibility in adjusting study plans based on practice test feedback emerged as a common trait among top performers.
Their stories underscore the importance of personalized strategies, consistent effort, and resilience.
What Admissions Committees Look for Beyond Test Scores
While test scores remain important, admissions committees increasingly value a holistic profile.Strong scores demonstrate academic readiness but are only part of your MBA story.Leadership experience, career progression, community involvement, and personal qualities weigh heavily.Essays and interviews provide platforms to showcase your unique narrative, values, and fit with the program.Understanding this broader context can reduce test anxiety by placing scores in perspective.
It can also guide how much time and effort you dedicate to exam preparation relative to other application components.
Preparing for Test Day: Practical Tips and Checklist
As test day approaches, final preparation focuses on logistics and mindset.Confirm your test appointment details, location, and required identification.Pack essentials the night before: approved calculator (if applicable), snacks, water, and comfortable clothing.Ensure a restful night’s sleep and avoid cramming last-minute material.Arrive early to the testing center or prepare your quiet space for online testing.During the exam, practice deep breathing to maintain calm and focus.Keep an eye on the timer but avoid clock-watching obsessively.
Read instructions carefully and stay positive even if some questions seem difficult.
The Future of Graduate Admissions Testing: Trends to Watch
The GMAT Focus Edition and GRE updates signal ongoing evolution in standardized testing.
We anticipate further integration of real-world business scenarios and data analytics into exam content.
Shorter, more adaptive tests may become the norm, emphasizing efficiency and precision.
Technology like AI-driven personalized prep tools and virtual reality simulations could transform study and test-taking experiences.
Schools may increasingly accept alternative assessments or place less emphasis on standardized tests altogether.
Staying informed about these trends will help prospective MBA candidates remain agile in their admissions strategies.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing between the GMAT Focus Edition and the updated GRE is a pivotal step on your MBA path.
Both exams demand dedication, strategic preparation, and mental toughness.By understanding their nuances, leveraging the right resources, and cultivating resilience, you can maximize your test performance.Remember that your score is one part of a larger story about your potential as a future business leader.
Approach preparation with curiosity and confidence, and you will set a strong foundation for achieving your MBA goals.