GMAT Focus Edition: pattern, scores and how Indian B-schools use it
The GMAT Focus Edition is the current version of the GMAT, run by GMAC. It has 64 questions in 2 hours 15 minutes, split into three sections of 45 minutes each: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights. Total scores run from 205 to 805, and scores are valid for five years.
In India, GMAT is used for the one-year executive programmes at the IIMs and ISB, and many institutes (for example XLRI, MICA and IBS) accept it alongside CAT or XAT. Unlike CAT, you can book it on almost any day of the year.
GMAT Focus at a glance
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes |
| Total | 64 | 2 hours 15 minutes (plus an optional 10-minute break) |
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Score range | 205 to 805 (each section 60 to 90) |
| Mode | Test centre or online, depending on availability |
| Review | You can bookmark, review and change up to 3 answers per section |
| Validity | Five years |
| Fee | Check the current fee for India on mba.com when booking |
What each section tests
- Quantitative Reasoning: problem solving in arithmetic, algebra and statistics. Plane geometry is no longer tested, and data sufficiency has moved to Data Insights.
- Verbal Reasoning: reading comprehension and critical reasoning. Sentence correction has been removed.
- Data Insights: data sufficiency, multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation and two-part analysis. An on-screen calculator is available here.
The test is computer-adaptive at the question level: your answers decide the difficulty of the next question. You can choose the order of the three sections.
How it compares with CAT
| CAT | GMAT Focus | |
|---|---|---|
| When | Once a year | Almost any day |
| Sections | VARC, DILR, QA | Quant, Verbal, Data Insights |
| Calculator | Basic on-screen | Only in Data Insights |
| Used for | Two-year PGP at IIMs and most Indian B-schools | One-year executive MBAs, ISB, global schools |
Preparation tips
- Take the free official practice tests on mba.com first to set a baseline.
- Data Insights is new to most Indian students. Spend extra time on two-part analysis and multi-source reasoning.
- Use the review-and-edit feature only for questions where you made a clear mistake; do not plan to revisit many.
- CAT DILR practice helps a lot with Data Insights. Try the free DILR sets on Target Campus.
Frequently asked questions
Is GMAT accepted for the two-year MBA at the IIMs?
Mainly for the one-year executive programmes and for international candidates. For the two-year PGP, Indian residents usually need CAT. Check each institute's admission page.
How long is a GMAT score valid?
Five years from the test date.
Can I change answers in GMAT Focus?
Yes, up to three answers per section, using the review screen at the end of each section.
Published 2 Nov 2026 · Facts last checked 2 Nov 2026 by Team Target Campus. Exam bodies and companies can change details at any time, so confirm on the official website before you apply.