Introduction
The Graduate Management Admission Test, now GMAT Focus Edition, was a step toward streamlining the exam and making the interface more student-friendly and accessible.
The new GMAT total score scale ranges from 205 to 805, and all total score values end in a 5.
However, with such changes in the timings, sections, and even the scoring range of the exam, a significant question arises: Will the old GMAT scores be considered valid after the implementation of GMAT Focus Edition?
To answer in one word, Yes. The validity of classic GMAT remains 5 years. The business school will continue accepting your old GMAT score once the GMAT focus edition is introduced.
The new edition’s score is based on all three sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights. Section scores range from 60 to 90, with each section equally weighted towards the Total Score.
To understand this process in detail, let’s take up a few numerical data:
Example 1—Rohit aims to get admitted into top US universities. Since the GMAT has a 5-year validity period, he gave it a shot and scored an exceptional 700. However, his score would be equivalent to 655 under the new edition. Here, both scores would fetch a percentile of 89.6%.
(Percentile rankings indicate what percentage of test takers you performed better than.)
Hence, even though the marks of both editions differ, the percentile equivalent remains the same.
You can still take the GMAT after establishing the GMAT Focus Edition. The GMAT Focus Edition is a newer test version designed to better align with the skills needed for business school and professional success. However, the traditional GMAT is still available, and you can choose which version to take based on your preferences and the requirements of the programs you are applying to. It's a good idea to check with the specific business schools you're interested in to see which version they prefer or require.
Choosing between the GMAT and the GMAT Focus Edition depends on several factors:
Content and Structure
GMAT - The traditional GMAT has four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative, and Verbal.
GMAT Focus Edition - This version is streamlined and potentially focuses more on sections that align closely with business school requirements, such as Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights. It does not include the AWA section.
Preparation
GMAT - Given its long-standing presence, extensive resources and practice materials are available.
GMAT Focus Edition - Newer prep materials might be required. However, the foundational requirements remain the same. Ensure you can access updated resources tailored to this version, especially from their official resources.
Business School Requirements
Check if the business schools you're applying to prefer one version. Some schools may be more familiar with the traditional GMAT, while others may prefer the updated focus of the GMAT Focus Edition.
Test Format Familiarity
If you're already preparing for the traditional GMAT and feel comfortable with its format, sticking with it might be less disruptive.
It might be worth considering if you believe the changes in the GMAT Focus Edition align better with your strengths and the skills you want to showcase, such as Data Insights. You can also opt for GMAT Focus Edition if geometry is not one of your most robust suites.
Future Trends
The GMAT Focus Edition might eventually become the standard, so taking it could position you ahead of the curve if it gains wider acceptance.
Conclusion
Converting a traditional GMAT score to a GMAT Focus Edition score is not straightforward due to potential differences in test structure and scoring methods. You can check their conversion chart on their official site.
Before deciding, review sample questions and practice tests for both versions and consider seeking advice from admissions consultants or current students at your target programs.
We know and understand that the application process can be overwhelming and confusing, so we are here for you. Our GMAT program is curated with the individual needs of every student in mind, with the number of sessions ranging according to your expertise. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way.
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