GMAT Scoring Guide
How scores are calculated, what they mean, and how to reach your goal score.
Scoring Overview
Each GMAT Focus section is scored 60–90, combined via a proprietary algorithm into a 205–805 total. The test is adaptive by section: as you answer correctly, harder questions appear and are worth more. Unlike older GMAT, you cannot skip questions but you can bookmark up to 3 per section for review. The 90th percentile typically sits around 655, and top MBA programs look for 705+. There is no penalty for guessing beyond losing the chance to earn points, so always answer before time runs out.
Score Scale
| Section | Duration | Max Score |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 min | 90 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 min | 90 |
| Data Insights | 45 min | 90 |
Section Breakdown
quant
21 Problem Solving questions covering arithmetic, algebra, and word problems. No more Data Sufficiency — that moved to Data Insights.
verbal
23 questions split between Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. Sentence Correction was removed.
di
20 questions using 5 new question types that blend quant, verbal, and data analysis.
Key Facts
- Length
- 2h 15m (3 × 45-min sections)
- Questions
- 64 total (21 Quant, 23 Verbal, 20 DI)
- Score range
- 205–805 (10-point increments)
- Format
- Computer adaptive by section
- Cost
- $275 USD (online) / $300 (center)
- Validity
- 5 years from test date
Study Tips
- 1.Take a full-length diagnostic first to set a baseline — don't skip this step.
- 2.Master the fundamentals (arithmetic, algebra, grammar) before tackling advanced strategy.
- 3.Time per question: ~2:09 Quant, ~1:57 Verbal, ~2:15 Data Insights. Practice with a timer.
- 4.Review every wrong answer thoroughly — understanding one mistake is worth doing ten more problems.
- 5.Use the Official Guide + 2–3 full-length practice tests per month in the last 6 weeks.
- 6.Don't neglect Data Insights — most candidates do, and it's 1/3 of your score.