Current GMAT pattern at a glance
The current GMAT has 64 questions in three sections. Each section is 45 minutes, making the timed test 2 hours 15 minutes. Candidates may take one optional 10-minute break. The sections are Quantitative Reasoning (21 questions), Verbal Reasoning (23) and Data Insights (20). You can choose the order in which to complete the three sections, so practice a sequence that fits your concentration and stamina.
This description is for the current GMAT exam, formerly branded GMAT Focus Edition. GMAC replaced the GMAT Exam (10th Edition) on 1 February 2024. The old edition had a different structure, including Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning; its question list and score scale do not describe the present exam. If a prep guide refers to Sentence Correction, an essay or the old three-hour format, check its edition and publication date before using it.
Quantitative Reasoning
Quantitative Reasoning has 21 Problem Solving questions in 45 minutes. GMAC says the content uses foundational arithmetic and elementary algebra, with emphasis on applying that knowledge through logic and analysis. It is not a test of advanced university mathematics. The current official page states that a calculator is not available in this section, so candidates should practise making accurate calculations with the permitted tools and within the time limit.
Read the question carefully before choosing a method. Identify what is being asked, list the relevant values and check whether the result must be exact, approximate or compared with another quantity. Review errors by concept and reasoning step; repeatedly memorizing a shortcut without understanding its conditions can fail when the problem is presented differently. Use the current official practice material for question format and answer controls.
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning has 23 questions over 45 minutes and includes Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. Reading questions assess understanding of statements, logical relationships, inferences, application, structure and style. Critical Reasoning asks candidates to evaluate an argument or plan, such as identifying evidence that strengthens or weakens a conclusion or spotting a flaw.
GMAC states that specialized subject knowledge is not needed. Focus on what the short passage actually says, the conclusion it supports and the assumptions between evidence and conclusion. In reading passages, distinguish a main claim from examples and details. A familiar topic can still have a surprising correct answer if the passage uses a term in a narrow way, so base the response on the text rather than personal knowledge.
Data Insights
Data Insights has 20 questions in 45 minutes. It tests how candidates interpret and connect information from sources such as text, tables, charts and graphics. GMAC lists five types: Data Sufficiency, Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation and Two-Part Analysis. Questions can combine quantitative, verbal and data-analysis skills. An on-screen calculator is available in this section.
Data Sufficiency asks whether the supplied statements contain enough information to solve a quantitative question. Multi-Source Reasoning uses several sources that may need to be reconciled. Table Analysis requires sorting and interpreting tabular values; Graphics Interpretation asks candidates to draw conclusions from a visual display. Two-Part Analysis can require evaluating trade-offs or linked outcomes. Read the prompt and response controls closely because a task may require one or more answers.
Navigation, review and score reporting
GMAC lets candidates choose section order. During a section, you can bookmark questions and later review as many as time permits. You can edit up to three responses per section from its review screen. If the section timer expires, the review screen is skipped. This makes time management important: leave enough time to reach the review stage if you plan to use it, and do not assume edits can be made after the section ends.
The total score ranges from 205 to 805; section scores range from 60 to 90, and each section contributes equally to the total. The report includes percentile rankings. The numbers differ from the legacy 200–800 total scale, and GMAC cautions against direct numerical comparison. Use the official percentile concordance for context and the target school’s policy for admissions interpretation.
Delivery modes and planning
The current exam can be taken at a test centre or online in many regions. Both formats use the current three-section structure and scoring scale, while their check-in and equipment rules differ. Confirm which format the target programme accepts and review current ID or online workspace rules. Appointments are selected from live availability and the exact date is location-specific.
For preparation, practise all three current sections and include the current item types. Do not mix in the legacy Analytical Writing Assessment, Sentence Correction or separate Integrated Reasoning section as if they were current. GMAC’s official content and structure pages are the best reference for the exam you can book today; the business school’s own requirements determine how a current or legacy result will be treated in an application.