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Below is a table summarizing the score ranges, score intervals, and standard errors of measurement for the total score, Quantitative Reasoning score, Verbal Reasoning score, and Data Insights score in the GMAT™ Focus Edition:

It’s essential to note that numerical scores alone may not signify similarity in performance when it comes to comparing the new GMAT with its previous version. Unlike before, where the scores were derived just from two sub-sections (Quant and Verbal), the new GMAT scoring considers all sections, including data insights. It is more accurate for diverse test-takers and reflects a variety of skills. For instance, scores of 600 and 605 might appear similar but they actually denote distinct performance levels across various skills.

Classic GMAT Vs GMAT Focus Edition Scoring Structure

So far, we have learned that the GMAT Focus Edition’s updated score scale ranges from 205 to 805. Each score ends in a 5, unlike the traditional GMAT Exam’s 200-800 range. We have also learned that this modification is instrumental in establishing a distinct separation between scores derived from the GMAT Focus Edition and those of the traditional GMAT Exam.

Now, let’s dive deeper into how this new scoring structure differs from the classic GMAT scoring system.

Based on the table above, let's break down and understand the key differences between Classic GMAT and GMAT Focus Edition scoring:

Total Score Range:

The Classic GMAT maintains a scale of 200-800, while the GMAT Focus Edition offers a more detailed assessment in its score range from 205 to 805.

Scoring Composition:

The Classic GMAT derives scores solely from Quantitative and Verbal sections, whereas the GMAT Focus Edition incorporates all sections, including Quant, Verbal, and the Data Insights (DI) section, fostering a more comprehensive evaluation

Number of Scoring Levels

Both versions offer 61 scoring levels. The GMAT Focus Edition allocates 40% more levels in Section 1, ensuring a finer resolution in evaluating their achievements.

Levels

The Classic GMAT designates 5 levels for 99 percentile scorers, whereas the GMAT Focus Edition pioneers a notable shift. With 11 levels (705 to 805) exclusively dedicated to the top 40% of test-takers, this adjustment reflects a threefold increase compared to the classic GMAT.

Levels

The Classic GMAT designates 5 levels for 99 percentile scorers, whereas the GMAT Focus Edition pioneers a notable shift. With 11 levels (705 to 805) exclusively dedicated to the top 40% of test-takers, this adjustment reflects a threefold increase compared to the classic GMAT.

Score Equivalence

The scoring landscape diverges as a score of 710 on Classic GMAT symbolizes a 90th percentile, but on the GMAT Focus Edition, it corresponds to a higher 93rd percentile.

Mean Score

The Classic GMAT's mean score stands at 574.51, whereas the GMAT Focus Edition presents a slightly lower mean score of 546.01.

What are Major Changes in GMAT Scoring System?

The GMAT Focus Edition has brought about significant transformations in its scoring system, departing from the reliance on Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning scores to a more comprehensive evaluation encompassing all three sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and the newly introduced Data Insights (DI).

Holistic Scoring Approach

The GMAT Focus Edition incorporates scores from all three sections - Quantitative, Verbal, and the innovative Data Insights section. Each section's score ranges from 60 to 90, with an equal weighting towards the total score. This shift indicates a more detailed recognition of a test-taker's proficiency across diverse skill sets.

Refined Content Areas

The GMAT Focus Edition emphasizes data literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving. By aligning with the evolving demands of the academic and professional landscape, the GMAT Focus Edition ensures that the assessment is both relevant and reflective of the skills required in today’s business settings.

Updated Scoring Algorithm

The scoring algorithm has undergone updates to enhance precision and accuracy of scores, ensuring a fair and equitable evaluation process.

Question Review & Edit Feature:

A noteworthy addition is the Question Review & Edit feature, which holds implications for testing behaviour, encouraging a more interactive and adaptive approach.

How is Section-wise Scoring Done in GMAT Focus Edition?

In the GMAT Focus Edition, the Section-wise scoring offers a tailored approach to evaluating a test-taker's proficiency in crucial skills. Let's understand how it better.

Quantitative Reasoning Marks Distribution

The Quantitative Reasoning section has 21 multiple-choice questions. The time allotted to complete this section is 45 minutes. The score range is 60 to 90, determined by the following factors:

1. Number of questions answered
2. Accuracy of answers
3. Difficulty and question parameters

Verbal Reasoning Marks Distribution

The Verbal Reasoning section has 23 multiple-choice questions (Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning). The time provided for this section is 45 minutes. The scoring follows a range from 60 to 90. The score is determined by the following factors:

1. Number of questions answered
2. Accuracy of answers
3. Difficulty and question parameters

Data Insights Marks Distribution

The Data Insights section has 20 multiple-choice questions that are required to be completed within a time frame of 45 minutes. The scoring in the Data Insights section follows a range from 60 to 90. The score is determined by three crucial factors:

1. Number of questions answered
2. Accuracy of answers
3. Difficulty and question parameters

It is important to note that certain questions may comprise multiple parts in the DI section. To secure credit for a question, each part must be accurately answered.

How is Section-wise Percentile Calculated in GMAT New Edition?

With your GMAT exam scores, you get a percentile ranking. Percentiles are derived from the aggregate performance of all test-takers. For example, if someone scores 695 on the GMAT Focus and this score aligns with the 98th percentile, it denotes that merely 2% of GMAT test-takers achieved a comparable score. While all three sections of the GMAT Focus employ the same scoring scale (60-90), it is important to recognize that percentile rankings may vary among these sections.

How to Compare the GMAT Classic & the GMAT Focus Edition Score?

See more...

How Difficult is it to Score in the New GMAT Format?

The GMAT Focus Edition has a new scoring system, but scoring well is not tougher. The adjustments aim for fairness, and understanding how the numbers relate makes your performance clearer and more meaningful. For example, if you score 645 on the GMAT Focus Edition, it will be like getting 700 on the old scale, and both mean you are in the 86th percentile. So, even though the numbers look different, your performance level is pretty much the same.

Remember, a good score is not just about achieving a certain number. Your ranking is clearly shown on your scores report, giving you a clear idea of how well you did compared to others.