GMAC opened registration for the GMAT Focus Edition on 29 August 2023 and set 7 November 2023 as the first day of testing. The announcement described a test built around data analytics, problem solving and critical reasoning, with more flexible testing and score sending.
Key facts
- Registration opened 29 August 2023
- First test date 7 November 2023
- Old GMAT Available until 31 January 2024
Two GMATs for a few months
Between November 2023 and the end of January 2024 candidates could choose between the new Focus Edition and the previous GMAT. GMAC later confirmed that the old version would close on 31 January 2024, leaving the Focus Edition as the only GMAT from 1 February.
Preparation materials
GMAC had promised official Focus Edition preparation materials before registration opened, so candidates could practise the new Data Insights section and the review and edit feature before booking.
What this means
This was the start of the current GMAT. Today there is only one version, so any booking you make on mba.com is for the exam that started on 7 November 2023. Check that your preparation books and practice tests are for that exam, with three sections and a 205 to 805 scale.
The format GMAC opened for booking that day is still the one in use: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights, 45 minutes each, with one optional break and a free choice of section order. Candidates can review answers and change up to three per section. If you are booking now, allow time for at least one retake before your deadline, keeping in mind the 16-day gap and the limit of five attempts in 12 months.