The GMAT™ Focus Edition sections measure mathematical problem solving in Quantitative Reasoning, reading and argument evaluation in Verbal Reasoning, and data interpretation in Data Insights.[2] Every section runs 45 minutes, and together they make a 64-question exam with 2 hours and 15 minutes of testing time.[1] This guide explains what each section measures, which question types it uses and how the sections fit together.
What is the exam called now?
The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) says the "GMAT Focus Edition" name reverted to "GMAT Exam" from July 1, 2024 onward.[4] Its current description also uses "GMAT Exam (Focus Edition)" for this version.[4]
How many questions and minutes does each section have?
| Section | Questions | Time | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21[1] | 45 minutes[1] | Problem Solving[2] |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23[1] | 45 minutes[1] | Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning[2] |
| Data Insights | 20[1] | 45 minutes[1] | Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis[2] |
GMAC describes the exam as 2 hours and 15 minutes long, with one optional 10-minute break.[1]
What does Quantitative Reasoning measure?
Quantitative Reasoning tests how you use foundational algebra and arithmetic to solve problems.[2] It has 21 Problem Solving questions, and you cannot use a calculator.[2] GMAC says some arithmetic and elementary algebra knowledge is required, but emphasizes logical and analytical thinking when answering the questions.[2] It also notes that the section measures skills used in business subjects such as finance, accounting and statistics.[3]
What does Verbal Reasoning measure?
Verbal Reasoning tests understanding of written material and the ability to assess arguments.[2] It has 23 questions of two kinds, Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.[2]
Reading Comprehension questions test these reading skills: main idea, supporting idea, inference, application, logical structure and style.[2] Passages can run up to 350 words.[3]
Critical Reasoning questions use a short passage, usually fewer than 100 words.[2] You do not need specialized subject knowledge to answer Critical Reasoning questions.[2]
What does Data Insights measure?
Data Insights tests data analysis and interpretation in business scenarios, as well as digital and data literacy.[2] It has 20 questions, which may require math, data analysis, verbal reasoning or all three, and you can use an on-screen calculator.[2] GMAC lists these question types:[2]
- Data Sufficiency: decide which information matters for a quantitative problem and whether it is sufficient to solve that problem.[2]
- Multi-Source Reasoning: work with information across text, tables or graphics to answer a series of questions.[2]
- Table Analysis: use a sortable, spreadsheet-like table to identify relevant information or data that satisfies specified conditions.[2]
- Graphics Interpretation: draw conclusions about relationships shown in a graph or another visual display of data.[2]
- Two-Part Analysis: tackle complex problems involving quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning or a combination of both.[2]
How do section order, answer review and scores work?
You can answer the three sections in any order, and you can take the optional break after the first or the second section.[1]
After you answer every question in a section, the Question Review & Edit screen lets you review questions and edit up to three answers, provided section time remains.[1] If no section time remains, you cannot access that review screen.[1]
Each section is scored from 60 to 90, and the total score runs from 205 to 805.[3] GMAC says the Official Score Report arrives within 3 to 5 days of the exam, although it may occasionally take up to 20 days.[1] It shows performance by section, content domain, question type and skills, and time management, among other views.[1]
How does this differ from the earlier exam?
GMAC updated the exam in late 2023, and testing on the current exam started in November 2023.[3] The previous exam had four sections, 80 questions, a length of 3 hours and 7 minutes and a 200 to 800 score scale.[3] The current exam has three sections, 64 questions, a length of 2 hours and 15 minutes and a 205 to 805 scale.[3]
How could you use this to plan your preparation?
Consider organizing some practice sessions around individual sections. Example: if you can already work through Problem Solving questions without a calculator but find multi-source questions slow, give the Data Insights question types their own practice blocks rather than mixing everything together.
For more preparation options, explore Score Architect's GMAT™ prep and resources.
Frequently asked questions
How many sections does the GMAT Focus Edition have?
The exam has three sections: Quantitative Reasoning with 21 questions, Verbal Reasoning with 23 questions and Data Insights with 20 questions.[1] Each section lasts 45 minutes.[1] Total testing time is 2 hours and 15 minutes for 64 questions, with one optional 10-minute break.[1]
Can I use a calculator on the GMAT Focus Edition?
Calculator access differs between Quantitative Reasoning and Data Insights.[2] You cannot use a calculator in Quantitative Reasoning, which contains Problem Solving questions.[2] In Data Insights, you can use an on-screen calculator for questions that may involve math, data analysis, verbal reasoning or all three.[2]
Can I take the GMAT Focus Edition sections in any order?
Yes, you can take the sections in any order, with the optional 10-minute break after the first or second section.[1] After answering every question in a section, you can review questions and edit up to three answers, but only if time remains in that section.[1]
What is the GMAT Focus Edition score range?
The total score runs from 205 to 805.[3] Each of the three sections is scored from 60 to 90.[3] The previous version of the exam used a 200 to 800 total score scale.[3] GMAC presents these total score ranges in its comparison of the current and previous exams.[3]
Sources
- Graduate Management Admission Council (mba.com), Exam Structure. Accessed 15 November 2026.
- Graduate Management Admission Council (mba.com), Exam Content. Accessed 15 November 2026.
- Graduate Management Admission Council (mba.com), GMAT: Everything You Need To Know. Accessed 15 November 2026.
- Graduate Management Admission Council, Evaluate talent with GMAT. Accessed 15 November 2026.