)The GMAT exam syllabus 2025 is a bit different now with the new GMAT Focus Edition. It has three main sections – Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The total time is around 2 hours and 15 minutes, and all the questions are multiple choice. There is no essay or sentence correction part now, which makes the exam a bit shorter and more focused on logic and data skills.
In this article, you will find the complete GMAT syllabus with section-wise topics, what kind of questions you will get, and prep tips to help you score better. We’ve also added a study plan for beginners, a simple breakdown of all topics, and the best GMAT books to use in 2025. Whether you are just starting or already preparing, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to plan smartly for the GMAT.
Table of Contents
Overview of GMAT Exam Structure 2025
The GMAT exam pattern has 3 main sections – Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. Each section gives you 45 minutes and has multiple-choice questions.
The GMAT syllabus checks how well you solve math problems, understand English passages, and handle data-based questions. In Quant, topics include algebra, arithmetic, and ratios. The Verbal part covers Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. In Data Insights, you deal with charts, graphs, and questions where you need to check if data is enough to answer.
| Section Name | Topics Covered |
Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions – 45 mins) |
Algebra (includes linear & quadratic equations, inequalities, etc.) Arithmetic (numbers, ratios, percentages, averages, etc.) |
Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions – 45 mins) |
Reading Comprehension (RC) – finding the main idea, supporting points, making inferences, applying logic, checking structure & tone Critical Reasoning (CR) – questions based on strengthening, weakening, spotting flaws, or how a statement supports/damages an argument |
Data Insights (20 Questions – 45 mins) |
Data Sufficiency – check if you have enough info to solve a problem Multi-Source Reasoning – analyze data from different sources (text, tables, charts), find conflicts or draw inferences Table Analysis – sort, filter, and interpret data in table format Graphics Interpretation – read graphs/charts (bar, pie, line, etc.) and find patterns, trends, or relationships Two-Part Analysis – questions with two-part answers, involving quant or verbal logic, solving equations or evaluating situations |
GMAT Syllabus PDF - Analytical, Quant, Verbal & Reasoning
GMAT 2025 Syllabus – Section Wise
The GMAT test syllabus is divided into three sub-sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning Section
- Verbal Reasoning Section
- Data Insights Section
The complete GMAT Focus Edition duration is around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Also Read: GMAT eligibility criteria 2025
GMAT Syllabus: Quantitative Reasoning
The Quant section of GMAT Focus is where they check if you can solve math problems using logic. You will get 21 questions here, and you gotta finish them in 45 minutes. All are MCQ-type, no long steps, just pick the right answer.
In this part, the main focus is on problem-solving questions. It is not just about formulas. You need to think smart, use logic & know how numbers behave.
What Topics Come in GMAT Quant?
The quant syllabus includes a bunch of stuff from school maths. The topics are further divided into the following categories:
| 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 | - |
GMAT Syllabus: Verbal Reasoning
In the GMAT exam, the verbal reasoning part checks if the test-taker actually gets the idea of the reading context. There are 23 questions in this section, and they come from 2 types: Critical Reasoning (CR) and Reading Comprehension (RC).
What is in Critical Reasoning?
Critical Reasoning gives you short arguments or a plan or a similar exercise. Test-takers are required to:
- Answer if the logic is solid or weak
- Spot the assumption
- Figure out how to strengthen or weaken it
- Sometimes candidates need to complete the argument in the best way
GMAT Syllabus: Data Insights
The GMAT Data Insights section is made to test how well you understand and work with data, graphs, and logic-based problems. This section checks if you can figure out the right data, compare different types of information, and make decisions based on that. It includes 5 main question types, and each one is focused on different types of data skills you need for business school. Below is a simple table showing the question types and what they are about:
GMAT Data Insights Section Syllabus
| Question Type | What It Tests |
| Data Sufficiency | Check if you can look at a math problem and decide if the given data is enough. |
| Multi-source Reasoning | Tests your ability to read from texts, tables, or graphics and compare info. |
| Table Analysis | You have to read big tables and find useful data from it. |
| Graphics Interpretation | You need to understand graphs (like bar charts, pie charts, etc.) and answer based on them. |
| Two-part Analysis | Mix of Quant and Verbal. Solve 2 small problems or compare things side-by-side. |
Key Changes in GMAT Focus Edition (2025)
The new GMAT Focus Edition 2025 introduced many changes in the exam pattern and syllabus. Some key changes are as follows:
- The duration of the test is reduced. The new GMAT Focus Edition 2025 duration is 2 hours 15 minutes instead of the old 3.5 hours.
- The Essay section (AWA) has been removed.
- Sentence Correction is also not included.
- A new section called Data Insights has been added.
- Candidates can now choose their scores before sending them to universities.
How to Prepare for the GMAT Syllabus
As an international candidate, if you want to study in top MBA universities abroad, a good GMAT score is mandatory. Achieving a high GMAT test score is very challenging for many. But it is not completely impossible! A good GMAT score can be achieved through consistent practice, the right preparation strategy, and mock tests.
Here’s a 6-month GMAT study plan for beginners:
If you are new to GMAT and don’t know where to start, no worries! This 6-month GMAT study plan is perfect for beginners. With regular study and the right focus, you can get a good GMAT score even on your first try.
Month 1 – Understand the GMAT Basics
- First thing, know the GMAT exam pattern. It has 4 parts: Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, and AWA (Essay).
- Take a quick look at a few sample questions to get an idea.
- Start learning basic math topics like percentages, ratios, and averages.
- For the verbal section, revise grammar rules and read short articles or blogs daily.
- Studying for around 1 hour a day is okay for now, don’t rush.
Month 2 – Focus on Concepts
- Start learning each topic in more detail now.
- In quant, study number properties, algebra, and word problems.
- For verbal, focus on sentence correction and reading comprehension.
- Use simple notes and tricks to remember things.
- Take 1 small practice test to check your progress.
Month 3 – Practice Daily
- Now is the time to practice more questions from each part.
- Do 20–30 GMAT practice questions daily.
- You can use GMAT prep books or apps like Magoosh, Manhattan, etc.
- Don’t worry if you get wrong answers, just learn from mistakes.
- Try to study at least 2 hours daily this month.
Month 4 – Start Mock Tests
- Give your first full-length GMAT mock test.
- Don’t expect a perfect score, just focus on how the test feels.
- After each mock, see which topics you are weak in.
- Spend the rest of the week working on those weak parts.
- Do 1 full mock per week minimum.
Month 5 – Speed + Accuracy
- By now, you know your weak and strong areas.
- Focus more on timed practice, like solving questions with a stopwatch.
- In Quant, do more data sufficiency questions.
- In verbal, work on critical reasoning and sentence correction.
- Start doing medium to hard level questions also.
Month 6 – Final Revision + Mocks
- Now the final month, no need to start any new topic.
- Just revise what you already studied.
- Take 2 or more GMAT full mock tests every week.
- Make a checklist of formulas, tips, and tricks.
- Try to relax and sleep well before test week.
Also Read:
GMAT Syllabus 2025 Preparation Books
If you are planning to take the GMAT exam in 2025, it is very important to know the GMAT syllabus and pick the right preparation books. The GMAT test mainly checks your quantitative skills, verbal ability, logical reasoning, and writing skills. To prepare well, you need some best books for GMAT 2025 that are useful and easy to understand.
Best GMAT Preparation Books 2025
Here are some top GMAT books that students use for self-study in 2025:
- GMAT Official Guide 2025
- Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides
- Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus 2025
- Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course Set
- GMAT Advanced Quant by Manhattan Prep
- Powerscore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible
Read:
Explore Free Guides
Conclusion
Understanding the GMAT syllabus is the first step toward a strong preparation plan. With the introduction of the GMAT Focus Edition, the test is more streamlined but also more reasoning-intensive.
Focus on mastering fundamentals across Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights. If you want personalized prep strategies, expert guidance, or help with your MBA applications, connect with upGrad experts.
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FAQs
What is the syllabus for GMAT Focus Edition 2025?
The GMAT Focus Edition 2025 syllabus has 3 sections – Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. Each section has multiple-choice questions and 45 minutes to solve. The syllabus checks how well you do with math, logic, reading, and data understanding.
What topics are covered in the GMAT Quant section?
In the Quantitative Reasoning section, you get 21 questions based on topics like algebra, arithmetic, percentages, ratios, linear equations, quadratic equations, and more. you will need to solve problems using logic, not just formulas.
What is included in the GMAT Verbal Reasoning syllabus?
The Verbal section has 23 questions from Reading Comprehension (RC) and Critical Reasoning (CR). you will be tested on things like finding the main idea, supporting details, inference, and spotting strengths/weaknesses in arguments.
What is the Data Insights section in GMAT Focus Edition?
The Data Insights section has 20 questions. It checks how you use data from tables, graphs, and text. you will get question types like Data Sufficiency, Multi-source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, and Two-part Analysis.
Has the GMAT syllabus changed in 2025?
Yes, the GMAT Focus Edition 2025 has a few major changes. It now has only 3 sections and runs for about 2 hours 15 minutes. The essay (AWA) is removed and Sentence Correction is not part of the test anymore.
What topics were removed from the GMAT Focus syllabus?
In the new version, the AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) and Sentence Correction have been removed. Now the focus is more on reasoning, problem solving, and data skills.
Is Sentence Correction part of the new GMAT syllabus?
No, Sentence Correction is not included in the GMAT Focus Edition 2025. The Verbal section only checks Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning now.
What math concepts should I study for GMAT Quant?
You should cover topics like:
- Arithmetic (percentages, averages, ratios)
- Algebra (linear & quadratic equations, inequalities)
- Number system, Mixtures, Functions, Profit & Loss, and Speed & Time.
These are the main GMAT Quant syllabus topics.
What type of reading comprehension questions are in GMAT?
In GMAT Reading Comprehension, questions can ask about the main idea, supporting details, logical structure, tone, and inference. Some questions also ask how the author builds their argument or presents facts.
How is the new GMAT Data Insights section structured?
The Data Insights part checks how well you understand data from different formats like charts, tables, and text. you will get 5 types of questions, and it mixes quant and verbal skills. You need to solve problems, compare data, and figure out what’s relevant.
What are the most important topics in GMAT Verbal?
The Verbal Reasoning section focuses mainly on two areas:
- Reading Comprehension (RC) – reading long or short passages and answering logical questions
- Critical Reasoning (CR) – analyzing arguments, finding assumptions, strengthening or weakening logic
Is the AWA (Essay) section still part of the GMAT syllabus?
No, the AWA section is removed from the GMAT Focus Edition 2025. You don’t have to write an essay anymore. The test only checks your quant, verbal, and data-handling skills now.
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