The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test used by business schools worldwide to evaluate applicants for their MBA programs. The test has been around for more than six decades and has undergone several changes over the years. The most recent update to the GMAT, known as the GMAT Focus Edition, is set to have an impact on test-takers. In this article, we will examine what has changed and answer the question of whether you should worry about the new GMAT update.
Candidates will still be able to take the GMAT Exam in its present format until the beginning of next year (2024) to help with their ongoing applications to business schools and preparation. The only GMAT exam that will be offered after that will be the GMAT Focus Edition.
Modality Changes
The idea of updating the current version of the GMAT is to create a more focused test-taking experience that aligns with the skills needed in the business environment of tomorrow. So in order to answer your question of whether you should worry about the new GMAT update? Let’s go deeper into changes.
The new GMAT Focus Edition has been updated to reflect the changing business landscape and measures higher-order critical reasoning and data literacy skills. The new version removes Sentence correction questions from the Verbal Reasoning section and has a new section called Data Insights that measures the ability to analyze and interpret data.
Test-takers will need to rely on logic and analytical skills to solve 21 Problem-Solving questions in the Quantitative Reasoning section. They will face 23 Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning questions in the Verbal Reasoning section that test their ability to read and comprehend written material and evaluate arguments. There are also five question types in the Data Insights section, including Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, and Two-Part Analysis. Check out our recent article where we break down all section updates.
Are The Changes To The GMAT Significant Enough to Cause Concern?
The changes to the GMAT are not significant enough to cause alarm. In fact, the focus on higher-order critical reasoning and data literacy skills is a positive change that will better prepare test-takers for the business world. The reduced test-taking time may also benefit test-takers who have difficulty focusing for extended periods of time.
How Will The Updated GMAT Impact Business School Admissions?
Business schools will continue to use the GMAT as one of the criteria for admission into their MBA programs. In fact, the GMAT Focus Edition was designed in collaboration with top-tier business schools. The updated GMAT will provide a better evaluation of the skills that are essential in today’s business environment, and schools will likely adjust their admission criteria to reflect this.
What Are Some Strategies For Preparing For The Updated GMAT?
To prepare for the updated GMAT, test-takers should focus on honing their critical reasoning and data literacy skills. Test-takers can also practice with sample questions to familiarize themselves with the new format. Working with a tutor can also be beneficial, as they can provide personalized feedback and guidance on areas that need improvement.
Looking to prepare for the new updated version of the GMAT Focus Edition? Apex can help. Our experienced tutors offer personalized test prep that can help you excel on the exam. We’ll work with you to identify areas of strength and weakness, and create a customized study plan to help you achieve your goals. Book a 30-minute complimentary call with our 770+ scoring tutors now!
Reasons To Prepare For The GMAT With a Tutor
Preparing for the GMAT Focus Edition with a tutor can provide numerous benefits.
- Firstly, a tutor can provide a customized study plan that caters to your specific strengths and weaknesses, which can help you save time and focus on areas that need improvement.
- A tutor can also provide personalized feedback and support to help you stay on track and motivated during your preparation.
- Furthermore, tutors are knowledgeable about the latest updates to the exam and can provide valuable insights and strategies to help you succeed on the test.
Apex’s experienced tutors work closely with students to create a personalized study plan, offer customized feedback, and provide expert guidance to help you achieve your target score.
FAQs About The GMAT Focus Edition
When will the new GMAT update take effect?
Official Prep Available – June 6, 2023
Registration Opens – August 29, 2023
Testing Starts – Q4 2023
Will the new GMAT update affect the validity or reliability of the test?
The validity of any GMAT score is 5 years after the test date. Once the GMAT Focus Edition is out, the business school will still accept your old GMAT score. Check out our article on how the new scoring system works.
Do I need to prepare differently for the new GMAT compared to the current version?
Yes, test-takers should prepare differently for the updated GMAT, as the focus and format of the test have changed. Test-takers should focus on honing their critical reasoning and data literacy skills, and practice with sample questions to familiarize themselves with the new format.
Conclusion
The updated GMAT is a positive change that will better evaluate the skills needed in today’s business environment. The new GMAT update will not affect the validity or reliability of the test, and business schools will continue to use the GMAT as one of the criteria for admission into their MBA programs.
If you are still worried about the new GMAT update, we offer extensive one-on-one GMAT tutoring. You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation call with one of our tutors to learn how we can help you get to your dream school!