GMAT exam syllabus is vast and has seen various changes over time. The current version includes questions in three sections of Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Data Insights (DI). The GMAT exam has a mix of quant, data and verbal reasoning related topics. GMAT syllabus was revised recently and in place of four sections tested on 10th edition it has been reduced to three for 11th one. There are no Geometry questions, AWA and Integrated Reasoning sections have also been removed. Let us discuss the new GMAT Syllabus, the topics to cover for prep and tips while preparing for the GMAT 11th Edition.
Yes, GMAT exam syllabus is quite vast and despite some topic slashes like sentence correction, geometry and AWA (essay), the syllabus still has lots of topics. The Quant section has the maximum topics and is one of the biggest sections. Followed by Verbal Reasoning section where reading and critical analysis is tested. Finally, the latest Data Insights section is the next the biggest section with graph interpretation, data interpretation and tables along with other topics. Thus, GMAT includes a wide range of topics to test its applicants for admissions.
Yes, more or less the GMAT books are same for preparing for Focus edition with older versions. Applicants can just selectively choose the topics that are relevant for the current GMAT edition and can easily prepare for the exam. However, there are options to buy official guides or prep material from MBA.com website for GMAT Focus Edition.
- GMAT Exam Pattern 2025
- GMAT Exam Syllabus 2025
- GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus
- GMAT Verbal Reasoning Syllabus
- GMAT Data Insights Section Syllabus
- GMAT Syllabus 2025 Preparation Tips
- GMAT Syllabus 2025 FAQs
GMAT Exam Pattern 2025
Based on the latest changes, here is what is GMAT Focus Edition exam pattern looks like for applicants to understand the structure and then begin preparing for the GMAT exam:
| GMAT Focus Edition Sections | Number of Questions | Time Allocated |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 21 Questions | 45 Minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning (VR) | 23 Questions | 45 Minutes |
| Data Insights (DI) | 20 Questions | 45 Minutes |
| Total | 64 Questions | 2 Hours + 15 Minutes (Plus an optional 10 minute break in between) |
This is how the GMAT exam pattern would look like for those appearing for the exam soon. The applicants can now understand about the GMAT Focus syllabus from the following sections.
Commonly asked questions
Yes, you can review and change your answers while attempting your GMAT exam. In casee applicants mark some questions for reviewing, they can go back to them and review them and alter answers if needed.
GMAT Exam Syllabus 2025
GMAT exam syllabus is categorised into three sections that are overall 2 hours and 15 minutes long. GMAT Focus syllabus consists of various topics spread across the following sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning Section
- Verbal Reasoning Section
- Data Insights Section
Previously, there were four sections and now the sections on the GMAT exam are three. Plus, the time frame for the exam has also reduced significantly. The table given below provides the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus:
| GMAT Exam Sections | GMAT Exam Syllabus |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions in 45 Minutes) |
|
| Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions in 45 Minutes) |
|
| Data Insights (20 Questions in 45 Minutes) |
|
The GMAT syllabus for the GMAT Focus Edition differs from the current GMAT syllabus. AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) and SC (Sentence Correction) have been removed from GMAT exam syllabus of Focus Edition. In addition, a new section called Data Insights (DI) is based on IR (Integrated Reasoning) and this section also contains DS (Data Sufficiency) topic.
Important: For a complete analysis of the GMAT Focus Edition, students must visit our GMAT Focus Edition article.
Commonly asked questions
The GMAT exam syllabus is fixed and is not dynamic. There are a fixed set of topics per section that applicants have to look at to prepare for the syllabus. The exam sylabus does not change randomly or at a short span, official statements are released and time is given for implementation as well.
The following topics have been removed from GMAT's syllabus upon transition:
- Sentence Correction
- Geometry
- Analytical Writing Assessment or the AWA section which was the essay section
GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus
The Quantitative Section on GMAT comprises a total of 21 questions which are to be answered in 45 minute time frame. The questions will be objective type and will have multiple-choice answers. In the GMAT Quantitative section of Focus Edition, there are Problem-Solving questions which measure the candidates’ skills in using logic and analytical reasoning to solve quantitative problems.
In this section, the questions can be expected from the following math syllabus:
GMAT Quant Section Topics
The topics are further divided into the following categories to test GMAT Focus Edition's Quantitative Reasoning section:
| Arithmetic |
Algebra |
|---|---|
| Number System |
Elements of Algebra |
| Averages |
Linear Equations |
| Ratio and Proportion |
Quadratic Equations |
| Mixtures and Allegations |
Inequalities |
| Percentages |
Logarithm |
| Profit, Loss, and Discounts |
Functions |
| Time, Speed, Distance, and Work |
Exponents |
| Multiples and Factors |
Inequalities and Basic Stats |
| Decimals |
Permutation and Combination |
| Powers and Roots |
Progressions |
| Probablity |
-
|
| Set Theory |
|
| Mixtures and allegations |
|
| Simple and Compound Interest |
|
| Pipes, Cisterns and Work Time |
Check: GMAT Focus Sample Questions: Quantitative Section
Tips for GMAT 2025 Exam Quants
The following GMAT Quantitative Reasoning tips will help you score well on the Quants Section. To know the details GMAT 2025 Quants syllabus read on.
- Start with the basics. You may begin with Manhattan guides if you feel that your math is weak. If you have a good base, you may directly start by solving the GMAT.
- As you prepare, make sure to write the math formulae, concepts and tricks on A4 sheets. Revise them from time to time. To utilize your time, you may revise them while you are travelling.
- Also it is about understanding the concepts and not mugging them up. Try to analyse what fits where and then solve QR syllabus questions.
- Get as much practice as possible. Know that understanding questions on QR will be helpful only when you know how to tackle them on main exam day.
Commonly asked questions
For some, the QR section maybe a cakewalk, however for some it may not be. Thus, this is a very subjective question and will not have a cut-to-cut answer. Applicants who are confident enough would require some additional practice to crack the section. But those who are not very confident, would need to give extra time for preparation, take a lot of practice tests and be adept to make through the minimum cutoff requirement.
GMAT's Quant section preparation can be tricky for some applicants. The main aim is to test the applicant's analytical reasoning plus how they can analyse data and consequently draw conclusions. The strategy to target these type of questions on Quant section of GMAT shoudl ideally require applicants to time themselves, understand the strong and weak points plus work on them, most importantly practice as much as possible and finally, have your own shortcuts and tricks to solve lengthy questions.
There are different topics on GMAT QR section and these include:
| GMAT Quant Topics | Sub Topics |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic |
|
| Algebra |
|
GMAT Verbal Reasoning Syllabus
This Verbal Skills section will have 23 multiple-choice questions. This section of GMAT Focus is divided into Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension. This section tests the candidates’ ability to comprehend the written material and read and understand the logical relationship between the points mentioned in the passage and concepts.
1. Critical Reasoning
GMAT Critical Reasoning syllabus consists of different types of arguments that measure candidates’ skills to analyse argument structure, evaluate arguments, and assumptions, formulate or evaluate a plan of action, strengthen/weaken an argument, complete an argument, etc.
2. Reading Comprehension
It measures the candidates’ skill to draw inferences, understand logical relationships between significant points, understand words and statements, and follow the development of quantitative concepts. GMAT Reading Comprehension (RC) syllabus includes short and long passages wherein candidates are tested on the following reading skills: inference, application, main idea, supporting the idea, logical structure, and style.
Tips for GMAT 2025 Exam Verbal Reasoning
- GMAT RC: Understand the different types of questions tested on this section. Develop a habit of writing the main idea or point of any paragraph you read. It will help you for your main exam day.
- GMAT CR: Understand the different question types asked in the GMAT CR section. Make sure that you practice all of those.
Overall, you should have a good command over English language. Ensure you build your vocabulary regularly. Plus, do inculcate a regular reading habit to ace Verbal Reasoning section.
Commonly asked questions
The Verbal Reasoning on GMAT tests applicants on:
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Reasoning
- English grammar and skills
This is a very subjective question and the answer may vary per applicant. Those who have a good command over the English language can be more confident for this section. While those who are not very confident about the language and the rules may falter a bit. But with enough practice and a good preparation strategy it will be a cakewalk to ace this section like a pro!
The best way to improve English language skills is through:
- Having a habit of reading regularly - books, magazines or journals.
- Brushing up English langiage rules and implementing them.
- Learning new words everyday to build vocabulary.
- Build communication skills and conversing in English with friends and family.
- Also journaling in English language can be a plus point.
GMAT Data Insights Section Syllabus
For the third section of the GMAT exam, the syllabus is as follows for testing the Data Insights section of the Focus Edition:
- Data Sufficiency: It measures the candidates’ ability to examine a quantitative problem, identify which data is important, and determine at what point there is enough data to solve the problem.
- Multi-source Reasoning: Analysis of data from different sources (text, tables, graphics, or combination of these) + recognition of discrepancy + inference + determination of the relevance of data
- Table Analysis: Questions will be based on data given in a table. The data can be analysis of trends, sorting organised or unorganised data or even make a comparative study.
- Graphics Interpretation = Interpretation of information from graphics (scatter plot, x/y graph, bar chart, pie chart, or statistical curve distribution) + finding relationship + inference
- Two-part Analyses = Quant, Verbal, or a combination of both + evaluating trade-offs + solving simultaneous equations + finding relationships
This is a new section on the GMAT syllabus, but more or less a concise version of the Integrated Reasoning and a part of the Quantitative Section of the previous GMAT exam. The applicants can prepare for Data Insights Section based on the syllabus given above for reference.
Commonly asked questions
The Data Insights (DI) section on GMAT Focus Edition is structured this way -
- DI is timed for 45 minutes
- DI consists of 20 MCQ based questions
- Questions on DI will test applicant's knowledge in the areas of:
- Data Sufficiency
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Table Analysis
- Graphics Interpretation
- Two-Part Analysis
- Applicants will be scored on a 60-90 scale for this section and based on the overall sectional scores, GMAT scores will be generated.
Thus, this is how the structure of DI has been defined by GMAC for the latest GMAT exam's edition.
The syllabus of Data Insights (DI) section on the GMAT exam consists of the following topics:
- Data Sufficiency
- Multi Source Reasoning
- Table Analysis
- Graphics Interpretation
- Two Part Analyses
In order to target Integrated Reasoning questions on GMAT which include - Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, and Two-Part Analysis, applicants will have to think critically and show their analytical skills. Based on these skills and ofcourse practice, applicants can target these type of questions on the GMAT exam. Applicants will get only 30 minutes to target 12 questions, which they mut time during their mock tests and preparation also. The major focus should be on understanding the questions and then answering them.
GMAT Syllabus 2025 Preparation Tips
To be able to study on your own effectively, you need some good GMAT books. If there is a time constraint and you need professional guidance for preparation, then consider joining a GMAT coaching centre. Covering GMAT exam syllabus in three months is not difficult if you are regular. For this you should follow these strategies:
- Have a clear understanding of GMAT syllabus and how topics are divided section wise.
- Thoroughly understand key topics tested on GMAT exam syllabus based on its pattern and devise study plan accordingly.
- Focus first on important and tougher GMAT syllabus topics with regular revision and preactice.
- Complete the official study material for GMAT, available on GMAC or mba.com's website.
- Visit the GMAT Club and Beat the GMAT forums regularly. There, you can find practice questions, B-school reviews and toppers’ experiences.
- Appear for multiple GMAT mock tests. It will help you gauge your preparation levels and progress.
- Lastly, build your vocabulary regularly and ensure revising formulae too along with practice.
Check out Preparation Tips for GMAT Syllabus
Commonly asked questions
There are various sources available online where one can get useful study material to prepare for the GMAT test. Following are the sources where one can study and prepare for the GMAT for free:
- Official GMAC site (mba.com): Here, you can get tips to prepare for the exam and free GMAT practice tests as well
- Manhattan Prep: It offers free GMAT online prep tools that are very useful for the candidates preparing for the GMAT exam
- Veritas Prep: It offers free GMAT lessons and free tools that will come in handy while preparing for the exam
Most people start studying 4 to 6 months before the real test. If math is hard for you, start earlier. dont wait until the last month. You need time to learn concepts. Booking the exam date early helps you stay on track.
Start your MBA application process at least 10 months before deadline. Allow yourself three to six months just for studying from scratch. Use rest time for documentation. Preparing for GMAT requires careful planning.
GMAT Syllabus 2025 FAQs
Students may refer to the FAQs section below for more information on the GMAT syllabus.
Commonly asked questions
Usually, anything above 700 is considered a good GMAT score. With consistency, one can score 700+ on the GMAT. With a proper study plan, one should also practice mock tests and have a grip on the fundamentals. You should start by understanding the GMAT exam syllabus and pattern. Then, you must select the correct GMAT books and resources. Do not buy too many books else, you will be confused. Once you have completed the GMAT official guide and other official material, you can refer to Manhattan guides. You must give full-length mock tests every week to gauge your performance.
Yes, applicants who will appear for GMAT Focus Edition will have to put in lower time for preparing for the exam, plus, questions on Geometry and Sentence Correction are no more a part of the GMAT syllabus. Also applicants will not have to prepare for the writing section because it is not a part of the new GMAT exam version. Hence, one sectional reducation can benefit the students with their overall preparation.
GMAT exam tests different skill sets like the ability to think critically, the ability to analyse data, and draw conclusions using reasoning skills. According to an estimate, only 5-6% of candidates are able to score more than 720+. So, one needs to develop these skills to get a decent score in order to get admission to their dream B-school. Students must look at the GMAT from the perspective of B-schools. GMAT is only testing those quantitative and verbal reasoning skills that are required by a student to survive a B-school curriculum. It is not a test of management, but of general reasoning skills.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum VitaeComments
(294)
A
a year ago
A
a year ago
S
2 years ago
A
2 years ago
v
2 years ago
A
2 years ago
The current version of the GMAT exam "will continue to be available until early next year". There is no specific date for the same. After MCom, you may opt for an MBA as it will enhance your profile. You might as well venture into a new field (e.g. supply chain management) if you find it interestin
s
2 years ago
A
2 years ago
Hello. Now that you have completed your graduation, you can very well appear for the GMAT exam. Please make sure to check the eligibility criteria for MBA abroad as certain B-schools demand prior work experience. You may also apply for MIM programmes as they are also rewarding. You may check the to