The GMAT Focus Edition is designed to test a student's aptitude in three key areas: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The Quantitative Reasoning section consists of 21 questions to be completed in 45 minutes, the Verbal Reasoning section consists of 23 questions to be completed in 45 minutes, and the Data Insights section consists of 20 questions to be completed in 45 minutes. It lasts a total of 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an optional 10-minute break.

A woman writes in a notebook

The GMAT Focus Edition is a computer-adaptive test, which means that the difficulty of the questions will adjust based on your performance. If you answer a question correctly, the next question will be more difficult. If you answer a question incorrectly, the next question will be easier.

What to Expect on Test Day

Whether you take your test at a test center or online, you should do the following:

  • Confirm your appointment details: Before test day, make sure you know the date, time, and time zone of your exam.
  • Have ID ready: You'll need to present appropriate identification on test day. Your ID should match your registration details.
  • Review exam policies: Familiarize yourself with the rules and policies of the GMAT Focus Edition to avoid any violations that could affect your score.
  • Arrive early: 30 minutes for a test center and 15 minutes for an online exam.
  • Be well-rested: Get a good night's sleep before the exam to stay focused and alert.

In addition, here is a list of things to prepare for with each testing experience:

At a Test Center

  1. Bring valid ID and comfort items if pre-approved: You must bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on your registration. It's also important to note that certain comfort items, like tissues, are allowed if they are pre-approved as accommodations. Ensure your ID complies with local requirements.
  2. Store personal items in a locker: Personal items such as phones, watches, and electronic devices are not allowed during the exam. You can store these items in a locker provided at the test center to maintain a distraction-free environment.
  3. No food, weapons, or unauthorized devices: Food, drink, and weapons, and unauthorized devices such as calculators are strictly prohibited in the test center. Adhering to these rules ensures a secure and fair testing environment for all candidates.
  4. One optional 10-minute break: During the GMAT Focus Edition exam, you have the option to take one 10-minute break. You can choose to take this break after completing the first section or the second section, but not both. There will be on-screen instructions to guide you on how to take your break, and it's important to follow them precisely.
  5. Follow security measures, including ID and photographs: To maintain test integrity and security, you'll need to undergo security measures on test day. This includes presenting appropriate identification, providing a digital signature agreeing to the Test Taker Rules & Agreement, and having a digital photograph taken. These measures help ensure fairness and security for all test-takers.

Online:

  1. System Requirements: Your computer must meet certain technical requirements to ensure a smooth testing experience. This includes having a functioning webcam and microphone, a stable internet connection, and specific operating system and browser versions.
  2. Whiteboard Options: You can choose to use a physical whiteboard or an online whiteboard, or both during the exam. If using a physical whiteboard, make sure it meets the specified size and materials requirements.
  3. Preparing Your Workspace: Your testing area should be clean and free of prohibited items. During check-in, you may be asked to perform a room scan using your webcam to ensure compliance.
  4. Security Measures: Security is taken seriously. During check-in, you'll answer security questions and go through a 360-degree room scan. The online proctor will monitor your workspace. The exam itself is conducted in a secure, locked-down browser.
  5. Allowed and Prohibited Items: You're allowed to have approved identification, prescription eyeglasses, water in a clear container, and pre-approved comfort items. Prohibited items include mobile phones, headphones, writing materials, and more.
  6. Taking Your Optional Break: You have one optional 10-minute break that you can take after the first or second section of the exam. Follow the on-screen instructions and be mindful of the time. During the break, you may use the restroom, but you must leave your camera running, and you can't access phones or devices.

By understanding these details and preparing accordingly, you can tackle the GMAT Focus Edition with confidence and increase your chances of success. Good luck on your journey to business school!