TL;DR — The GMAT Focus Edition is the current version of the GMAT — about 2 hours 15 minutes long, three sections (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights), total score out of 805. Top MBA programmes typically look for 655 to 685+. Plan 8 to 16 weeks depending on your baseline.
The GMAT remains the standard admissions test for MBA programmes at top business schools worldwide. The Focus Edition replaced the earlier Classic format. This guide sets out the current structure and a preparation plan.
Test structure
- Total duration: about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Quantitative Reasoning: 45 minutes, 21 questions. Problem-solving with a focus on arithmetic, algebra and word problems.
- Verbal Reasoning: 45 minutes, 23 questions. Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.
- Data Insights: 45 minutes, 20 questions. Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis.
Scoring
- Each section scored 60 to 90.
- Total score: 205 to 805.
- Section-level and percentile scores are reported.
Score expectations by MBA programme
- Top-tier global MBAs (Harvard, Wharton, Stanford, INSEAD, LBS): 685 to 725.
- Strong second-tier programmes: 645 to 675.
- Solid mid-tier programmes: 605 to 645.
Preparation timeline
- 8 weeks: strong quantitative baseline and comfortable with test-taking.
- 12 weeks: standard case.
- 16 weeks: rebuilding maths fundamentals or verbal comprehension.
Section strategy
- Quantitative: master arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics and probability. Focus on efficient problem-solving.
- Verbal: build critical reasoning skills; practise identifying assumptions, inferences and strengthen/weaken questions.
- Data Insights: the newest section; practise reading tables, charts and integrating multi-source data.
Official resources
- GMAT Official Guide (from GMAC / mba.com).
- GMAT Focus Official Practice Exams (six official practice tests).
- GMAT Official Prep on mba.com.
Registration
Book at mba.com. The GMAT can be taken at Pearson VUE test centres or as GMAT Online Focus Edition (proctored at home). Test centres are available in Kathmandu.
Key takeaways
- GMAT Focus Edition is about 2 hours 15 minutes; three sections.
- Total score: 205 to 805.
- Top MBAs typically look for 655 to 685+.
- Data Insights is the newest section — practise on official materials.
- Preparation timeline: 8 to 16 weeks depending on baseline.
Important: This article is for general informational purposes only. Test fees, format details and score requirements change; verify current guidance on the mba.com official website and speak to The Next Education counsellors before taking any action based on this content.
Related resources
See our Studying MBA abroad, Studying MBA in Canada, and Studying MBA in Australia.