Choosing Between GMAT Focus and Regular GMAT - Need Advice!

Question

Hey GMAT Club community, I've been grappling with a dilemma and would greatly appreciate your insights. I've been preparing for the regular GMAT for the past four months, aiming for a score of 720 or above. Currently, my scores are in the 660 range (Q49 / V30). However, with the deadline of January 31st, 2024, for the availability of the regular GMAT, I'm at a crossroads. I'm considering whether to switch to the GMAT Focus or persist in my quest for a higher score before the deadline. My plan is to apply either next year or in 2025, with the intention of saving my score until then.

If I manage to hit my target score on the regular GMAT, will it still be accepted for applications in 2025? I'm torn between the urgency of the deadline and the desire to achieve my target score. Any advice or guidance from those who've been in a similar situation would be incredibly helpful. Thanks in advance!

If I manage to hit my target score on the  regular GMAT , will it still be accepted for applications in 2025? I'm torn between the urgency of the deadline and the desire to achieve my target score. Any advice or guidance from those who've been in a similar situation would be incredibly helpful. Thanks in advance!

pintukr · Answer

Are all official GMAT scores not valid till 5 years?

GmatKnightTutor · Answer

Person below went from a V31 to a V40 in about 30 days. Maybe some quick tips you can take. https://gmatclub.com/forum/gmat-online- ... 68599.html If you have the flexibility, one option could be to take the classic and, later on, study for/take the Focus in case you feel you're missing out for any reason. Ultimately, the classic will not be available after January. -contact: gmatknight site | gmatclub dm

AjiteshArun · Answer

Hi mgrisollem,

You could take the previous version before Feb 01, and then the Focus edition if you need to after that. As for your other question, scores from the previous version will almost certainly be accepted by schools as long as they are valid. You could reach out to some of your target schools and confirm this if you wish.

JayGMATFOCUS · Answer

If SC and Geometry played spoiler in your previous GMAT attempt then Focus edition is the way to go for you.

If you felt the longer test duration also as a challenge then thats another advantage you gain shifting to focus and reduce mental fatigue during test.

Otherwise as suggested by others above, you can anyways give classic another try before end of January and start Focus preparation if it doesnt work out.

All scores are valid 5 years without exception

Cheers

German9 · Answer

I was also prepping for the regular GMAT for the last four/five months. My practice scores were between 610-640. Was in the same dilemma as you are right now, and tried a GMAT Focus Mock and scored a 625 (~680 on regular). I struggled a lot with SC on the regular test. Will focus on the Focus from now on.

Posted from my mobile device

Posted from my mobile device

Prep4SuccessTutor · Answer

Choosing between the GMAT Focus and the regular GMAT can indeed be a tricky decision. Both tests have their unique advantages, so your choice should depend on your specific needs and goals.

The regular GMAT features four sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), and Integrated Reasoning1. On the other hand, the GMAT Focus Edition comprises three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights2.

One of the key differences is that the GMAT Focus does not contain pure math Data Sufficiency questions, unlike the standard GMAT3. The GMAT Focus Edition is considered more targeted and efficient, focusing on skills important for success in business school4.

If you're unsure about which version to choose, working with a tutor from Prep For Success could be beneficial. Their tutors are highly experienced in both versions of the test and can provide personalized guidance based on your strengths and weaknesses. They can help you understand the nuances of each test format and develop a study plan tailored to your needs.

JeffTargetTestPrep · Answer

I don't believe any schools will stop accepting GMAT Classic scores. So, in that respect, either test it fine. 
It might be worthwhile taking an official GMAT FE practice test to check whether it's more closely aligned to your skillset.

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi mgrisollem,

Why don't you take an official practice GMAT focus exam just to see how you do? Then, we can determine how to proceed.

kumar884 · Answer

If you achieve your target score before January 31st, 2024, it will be valid for applications in 2025. Alternatively, if the deadline feels too tight, consider switching to the GMAT Focus Edition for more flexibility.

	Manhattan Prep: $99 Bonus Score Higher on Your GMAT Exam. Guaranteed.
	Target Test Prep - Save up to $599 $400 Discount + $99 Bonus GMAT Club Tests
	e-GMAT: 60% Off on GMAT Focus Get to 735+ from any starting point
	Magoosh increases your score, guaranteed - 15% off ALL Magoosh GMAT plans with code GMATCLUB15 + Free GMAT Club Tests.
	Experts' Global - ~~$1720~~ $960 End-to-End GMAT Prep + App Support: 150+ Videos, 2000+ Questions, 15 FLTs +
	GMATWhiz - $299 ~~$499~~ Experience the course through a free trial.
	GMAT Club Tests - Free Included with every course purchase of $149+ View all deals

Choosing Between GMAT Focus and Regular GMAT - Need Advice!

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards