In 2024, the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) introduced the GMAT Focus Edition, significantly changing the exam format and scoring system. If you’re planning to apply to business schools, understanding what is a Good GMAT score under this new format is crucial.
Understanding the New GMAT Focus Edition Structure
The GMAT Focus Edition features a total score range of 205-805, with three main sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Verbal Reasoning
- Data Insights
- Total Score combining all three sections
This is a significant change from the previous version, eliminating the separate Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Integrated Reasoning sections.
Breaking Down What “Good” Means in the GMAT Focus Edition
The Overall Picture
- 600+: Generally considered a competitive score
- 650+: Strong score for many programs
- 700+: Excellent score that makes you competitive at top programs
- 750+: Exceptional score that puts you in the top percentiles
Key Changes from the Previous Format
- Shorter test duration (2 hours 15 minutes vs. 3 hours 7 minutes)
- More focused content relevant to modern business education
- Increased emphasis on data analysis and business applications
- Greater integration of business contexts across all sections
- Removal of AWA and standalone Integrated Reasoning sections
Section-Specific Considerations
Business Reasoning Score (Combined score from all sections)
The Focus Edition provides a Business Reasoning Score that reflects your ability to apply core skills in business contexts. This holistic score is increasingly important to admissions committees.
Quantitative Reasoning
- Focus on:
- Problem-solving skills
- Data analysis
- Business applications
- Real-world scenarios
- Less emphasis on pure mathematical theory
- More integration with business contexts
Verbal Reasoning
- Enhanced focus on:
- Business communication
- Critical reasoning
- Reading comprehension with business contexts
- More practical application of language skills
- Emphasis on decision-making and analysis
Data Insights
This new section combines elements of the previous Integrated Reasoning section with modern data analysis skills:
- Data interpretation
- Statistical reasoning
- Business intelligence
- Decision-making with data
Contextual Factors That Define a “Good” Score
- Target Business Schools Top business schools are still adapting their expectations to the new format, but early indicators suggest:
- Elite programs (M7 schools): Targeting scores of 700+
- Top 20 programs: Competitive with 650+
- Other ranked programs: Varying requirements, typically 600+
- Your Overall Application Profile The Focus Edition’s emphasis on business reasoning makes it more integrated with your professional experience:
- Strong business background might complement a moderate score
- Technical background might need to demonstrate strong verbal skills
- Non-traditional background might need to show strong quantitative abilities
- Industry Standards Some industries still consider GMAT scores in hiring:
- Consulting firms: Typically look for 700+
- Investment Banking: Often prefer 650+
- Tech Industry: Generally more flexible with score requirements
How to Determine Your Target Score
- Research Current Admission Trends
- Contact admissions offices for their Focus Edition score expectations
- Network with current students and recent admits
- Monitor school admission forums and websites for updated information
- Evaluate Your Profile Holistically Consider how the Focus Edition’s business-centric approach aligns with your:
- Work experience
- Academic background
- Career goals
- Overall application strategy
- Consider Program Tiers
- Top-tier programs: Aim for 700+
- Mid-tier programs: Target 650+
- Regional programs: Usually accepting 600+
Tips for Success on the GMAT Focus Edition
- Understand the New Format
- Familiarize yourself with the Focus Edition’s structure
- Practice with official GMAC Focus Edition materials
- Focus on integrated business scenarios
- Prepare Strategically
- Allocate study time across all three sections
- Practice data interpretation skills extensively
- Focus on business applications of concepts
- Use Updated Resources
- Ensure all study materials are specific to the Focus Edition
- Take official Focus Edition practice tests
- Join study groups familiar with the new format
Conclusion
The GMAT Focus Edition represents a significant evolution in business school admissions testing, emphasising practical business skills and integrated reasoning. While the scoring scale remains similar, the content and approach have been modernised to better reflect the skills needed in today’s business environment.
A “good” score on the Focus Edition is one that:
- Aligns with your target schools’ expectations
- Demonstrates your business reasoning capabilities
- Complements your overall application profile
- Supports your career goals
Remember that as schools continue to adapt to the new format, score expectations may evolve. Stay informed about your target programs’ specific requirements and focus on demonstrating your overall business readiness through the new integrated format. A Good GMAT score is thereby what ever helps you achieve your target schools but aim for at least a 700 irrespective!