If you're planning to apply to business school, you've probably heard of the GMAT Focus Edition — the updated, streamlined version of the traditional GMAT. But what exactly is included in this new format?

Let’s break it down.

The GMAT Focus Edition: A Quick Overview

Released by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the GMAT Focus Edition is a modernized version of the GMAT designed to better reflect the skills required in today’s business world. It's shorter, more efficient, and removes outdated content — all while keeping the rigor top schools expect.

So, What Are the Sections?

The GMAT Focus Edition consists of three main sections:

1. Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
Time: 45 minutes
Number of Questions: 21
This section tests your ability to reason quantitatively, solve math problems, and interpret data. It includes:

• Arithmetic
• Algebra
• Word problems
• Data interpretation

What’s different? No geometry! GMAC removed it to focus on the types of math you'll actually use in business and data analysis.

2. Verbal Reasoning (VR)
Time: 45 minutes
Number of Questions: 23
This section assesses your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written sentences.
It focuses on:

• Critical Reasoning
• Reading Comprehension

What's missing? Sentence Correction is no longer part of the test, a welcome change for many test takers who found it overly technical.

3. Data Insights (DI)
Time: 45 minutes
Number of Questions: 20
This is the most innovative section of the GMAT Focus Edition and reflects the growing importance of data literacy in business. You’ll need to interpret data from charts, tables, and graphs, and apply logical reasoning.
It includes a mix of:

• Multi-source reasoning
• Table analysis
• Two-part analysis
• Data sufficiency
• Math & verbal integration

Why this matters: Employers and MBA programs value analytical thinking. This section is a chance to show you’ve got it.

Total Time: Just 2 hours and 15 minutes

That’s an entire hour shorter than the old GMAT, with no essay and a flexible question review feature that lets you go back and change answers — something you couldn’t do before!

Why the Focus Edition Matters

The GMAT Focus Edition is built for a new generation of business leaders. It tests fewer things, but in smarter ways — and it gives you more control over how you take the exam.
If you’re applying to business school, understanding these three core sections will help you build a targeted study plan and walk into test day with confidence.