GMAT 2024 (Focus Edition): Registration, Preparation Tips & More

To pursue graduate-level courses in business studies, you need to have a good grasp of interpersonal skills like critical thinking and verbal and written communication. And to assess you on these grounds, many business schools rely on GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) test scores.

In fact, 9 out of every 10 new MBA enrollments are done based on GMAT scores. Nearly 200,000 students appear for this test every year for degrees like MBA and Masters in Management. So, knowing about the test would be very beneficial if you are aspiring to pursue an MBA from reputed universities across the globe.

In this article, we are going to cover everything about GMAT, from the recent changes in GMAT 2024 Focus Edition to its structure and scoring system.

Overview of the GMAT Exam

A big reason why GMAT is the most sought-after exam is that almost 1,900 business schools consider this exam as part of the selection criteria. Plus, the GMAT test adapts according to the candidate's level, meaning the questions will be selected based on your previous responses.

GMAT 2024 Syllabus: Section-by-Section Breakdown (Focus Edition)

Now that we know about the recent updates in GMAT 2024 let us take a look at the syllabus and provide a section-by-section breakdown of each section.

Quantitative Reasoning (QR)

This is one of the most significant sections of the test. In this, you will have to answer 21 questions within a time frame of 45 minutes. You can expect most of the questions to be related to problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking. For instance, the questions based on Mathematical concepts, Arithmetic, and Algebra will be there. In recent updates, the authorities have made two major updates in the Quant Section, which are as follows:

• Geometry questions have been eliminated.

• Mathematical data sufficiency questions will now be replaced with real-world scenarios and asked in the data insights section.

Let's have a look at the topics to be covered under Arithmetic and Algebra.

Verbal Reasoning

Reasoning is yet another important aspect of this test. In the Focus Edition GMAT, verbal reasoning has two parts: reading comprehension and critical reasoning. Similar to the quant section, you will get 45 minutes for this section. However, this section has 23 questions. As per the latest update, no more questions for sentence correction will be asked in the test. Let us take a detailed overview of what topics reading comprehension and critical reasoning comprise:

Data Insights Section

This is a newly introduced section in the test that aims to test your ability to analyse different types of data from multiple sources to make an informed decision. The section comprises 5 types of questions: Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, and Two-Part Analysis. For this section, you would be required to evaluate real-world business scenarios. The time frame of this section is also 45 minutes for 20 questions.

GMAT 2024 - Exam Result and Scores

Wondering about exam results and score ranges? Let us discuss that as well:

There will be 64 questions in total for three sections, as discussed above (21+23+20). In this, the total score range will be between 205 to 805. In the case of each section, the score range will be between 60 and 90. All total score values end in 5. You will be required to answer these questions in 2 hours and 15 minutes (including one optional 10-minute break) What's more important to note is that all three sections (QR, VR, DI) contribute equally to the final total score. Additionally, some B-schools may request individual section scores, too.

The candidates have a couple of privileges in answering the question. For instance, they can choose the order of answering the three sections. Additionally, they can use on-screen calculators for the Data Insights section.

Preparing for the GMAT 2024: Essential Tips

Want to get started with your preparation right away? Good luck, but don't forget to note some important tips for your exam.

1. Understand the Exam Format

Gain a complete understanding of the GMAT 2024 exam pattern and format. Specifically, plan according to the exam structure, question types, and time constraints. In addition to this, make sure you check if your preferred B-School needs a specific sectional score.

2. Identify your Strengths and Weaknesses

Note down your areas of strength and weakness among the three sections. Prioritise which of these sections you need major improvements in and plan accordingly.

3. Strengthen your Fundamentals

Work on strengthening your fundamentals in mathematics and English to build a solid groundwork for advanced study. This could lead to better results.

4. Practise Regularly

Last but not least, follow reliable study material like official GMAT guides or question banks to gain a better understanding of difficulty levels. Always remember that regular practice is the key to success.

Conclusion

Summing up, acing the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition is an important step towards securing your place at a top B-school. As per the information provided in this post, you will be able to get a better understanding of the exam format, content, and effective preparation strategies. Apart from sectional cutoffs, you must also recognise that costs for studying in a top-tier business school like Harvard Business School can be high.

However, the cost of an MBA program overseas shouldn't hinder your aspirations. Therefore, Prodigy Finance offers international student loans specifically designed for ambitious individuals like you. The company has partnered with many top business schools, including Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, London Business School, etc. And the best part? No cosigner or collateral is required for your student loan.

FAQs

Can I take the GMAT more than once to get a competitive score?

Yes, you can. However, you have to wait for a 16-day waiting period before you can re-appear for your exam. The waiting period is the same across both the test formats (online or offline).

What is the average GMAT score required for top MBA programs in the USA?

While GMAT remains the primary entrance exam to MBA programs, understand that the top B-schools in the USA don't evaluate your profile solely on the basis of scores. A high score in GMAT may or may not guarantee you get in. However, a 700+ score could be considered a safe score.

Which is better, the GMAT or the GRE?

It all boils down to the course you want to take. Though both of these exams can get you into graduate-level B-schools, the GRE is also accepted for business, engineering, and the sciences. On the other hand, GMAT is specifically conducted in business schools.

Can I use calculators during the GMAT exam?

Absolutely. However, you are only allowed to use on-screen calculators for the Data Insights section.

How long should I study for the GMAT 2024?

Based on your strengths and weaknesses, you may make a personalised study plan. Generally, a 3 to 6-month study plan can be sufficient if followed faithfully.