GMAT Focus Exam FAQ
We've been teaching GMAT for decades, and we know the days before the exam can be stressful. Below is a list of all you need to know from logistics to what you can do on breaks, so you can focus on the studying ;)
Important Takeaways
Key Points
- You control which scores schools see, and they view online and in-person scores equally
- For the in-person exam, book it in advance!
- For the online exam, give yourself plenty of time to prepare your workspace and setup your computer
- Don't forget your ID!
Retake Limits
- Up to 5 times in any 12-month period
- You need at least 16 days between two exams
- Maximum 8 times in your lifetime
- GMAT scores valid for 5 years
Online vs In-Person Comparison
In our experience most people prefer the online format, but the in-person does have some advantages, especially for the first time takers.
Online
In-Person
Online
In-Person
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In-Person
Online
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In-Person
Online
- Can be booked last minute
- Familiar home environment
- No travel required
- Technical issues are your responsibility
- Strict anti-cheating monitoring can be stressful
- Home distractions possible
In-Person
- Technical issues are not your responsibility, and proctors are less distracting once the exam starts!
- Requires booking in advance
- Must travel to official test center
- May feel daunting if not used to formal exams
| Feature | Online Exam | In-Person Exam |
|---|---|---|
Booking | • Can be booked up until 24h before the exam • Usually plenty of slots available, including weekends | • Availability depends on the test center • Some centers get booked up months in advance! • Typically only available on working days! |
Security process | • The proctor will check your ID and ask you to scan (with the camera) your work area before the exam and get you to close down all applications other than the exam software • During the exam the proctor will monitor you via webcam and microphone, and ask you to erase and show both sides of your whiteboard 2-3x times | • Before entering the exam room they will check your ID, take your photo, get you to sign a document and (in some countries) scan your palm • A physical proctor will be present during the exam |
Note taking | • Digital whiteboard or physical whiteboard no larger than 30 cm x 50 cm • Most people prefer having a physical whiteboard | • They will provide a booklet of 5 laminated pages and 2 markers |
Things not everyone knows! | • You need a transparent bottle for your water • Make sure there is no background noise. People have had their scores canceled because of their flatmates talking! | • If you arrive early at the exam center, you are often asked to start the exam early! • You can't take snacks into the exam room (but can leave them in your locker and take them out during the break) |
What to worry about before the exam | • Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a functional webcam and microphone • Download the software and test your setup • Clear your workspace and get your ID ready | • Plan transport and get your ID ready • Leave well in advance to avoid a stressful start! |
Pros & Cons |
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Further Reading from GMAC Official Sources
Common Questions
How long is the GMAT Focus exam?
The GMAT Focus Edition is 2 hours and 15 minutes of testing time — 45 minutes each for Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. You also get one optional 10-minute break between sections, so the total appointment runs roughly 3 hours including check-in and instructions.
How much does the GMAT Focus cost?
A standard GMAT Focus appointment costs $275. Rescheduling fees apply if you change your booking within 14 days of the exam. If you cancel within 14 days you receive a partial refund rather than a full one. Prices may vary slightly by region.
What is the GMAT Focus score range?
The GMAT Focus total score ranges from 205 to 805 in 10-point increments. Each of the three sections — Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights — is scored from 60 to 90. Your total score is a scaled combination of all three section scores.
What sections are on the GMAT Focus Edition?
The GMAT Focus has three sections: Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions, 45 minutes), Verbal Reasoning (23 questions, 45 minutes), and Data Insights (20 questions, 45 minutes). There is no Analytical Writing Assessment — that essay section was removed in the Focus Edition.
How long are GMAT Focus scores valid?
GMAT Focus scores are valid for 5 years from your test date. Most MBA programs only consider scores within 5 years of the application deadline, so plan accordingly if you are not applying immediately.
When will I receive my official GMAT Focus scores?
You receive an unofficial score report immediately after completing the exam. Official scores — including section sub-scores and your Enhanced Score Report (ESR) — are available within approximately 7 business days. You can then choose which schools to send your official scores to.
Can I use a calculator on the GMAT Focus?
No calculator is available on Quantitative Reasoning or Verbal Reasoning. A basic on-screen calculator is available during Data Insights only. This is why GMAT Quant focuses on logical reasoning and number sense rather than complex arithmetic — a calculator would make the questions trivially easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ready to Ace Your GMAT Focus Exam?
Whether you're taking the GMAT Focus exam online or in-person, preparation is the key to success. Understand the process, plan your strategy, and give yourself ample time to meet your goals.