GMAT changes tracker
The big recent change: GMAC launched the GMAT Focus Edition on November 7, 2023, and since February 1, 2024 it has been the only version of the GMAT. It is shorter, has three sections instead of four, drops the essay and uses a new 205 to 805 score scale.
Sources: GMAC documents on mba.com and gmac.com; launch dates as reported by guides. Checked October 11, 2026.
| Change | Old GMAT | Current GMAT | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sections | 4 sections, 80 questions | 3 sections, 64 questions | Nov 2023 |
| Section order | Choice of 3 orders | Any order | Nov 2023 |
| Score scale | 200-800 (Quant and Verbal only) | 205-805, all three sections equal | Nov 2023 |
| Essay (AWA) | Included | Removed | Nov 2023 |
| Review and edit | Not available | Change up to 3 answers per section | Nov 2023 |
| Only version offered | — | GMAT Focus Edition | February 1, 2024 |
Sources: GMAC; dates as reported.
What has not changed
- Scores stay valid for 5 years.
- Attempt limits: 5 in 12 months, 8 in a lifetime, across both versions.
- Test center or online, year-round.
Official source & community discussion
GMAC: GMAT Focus and the GMAT exam (official PDF) →
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