What are the scoring differences between GRE and GMAT Focus that I should know?
16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Rakshitha Muthukumar · 2 min read
Quick Answer
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GRE section scores typically run 130 to 170 for Verbal and Quantitative, with a total of 260 to 340. GMAT Focus sections run 60 to 90 with a total of 205 to 805. The GRE does not penalise unanswered questions, while the GMAT Focus deducts points. Check official pages.
GRE and GMAT Focus are scored differently and have different sections. One does not mark negatively for unanswered questions, while the other deducts points, so your strategy changes by exam.
GRE vs GMAT Focus Scoring
| Feature | GRE | GMAT Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring scale | Verbal: 130 to 170, Quantitative: 130 to 170, Analytical Writing: 0 to 6 in 0.5 increments | 60 to 90 for each section: Quantitative, Verbal and Data Insights |
| Total score | 260 to 340 (sum of Verbal and Quantitative) | 205 to 805 (scaled from all three sections) |
| Score reporting | Separate scores for Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical Writing | Composite score and individual section scores |
| Unanswered questions | No penalty | Points are deducted for unfinished sections |
Key Points to Remember
- The GRE has a narrower range for individual sections (130 to 170) than the GMAT Focus (60 to 90).
- The GRE total adds only Quantitative and Verbal, whereas the GMAT Focus composite draws on all three sections.
- The GRE does not penalise unanswered questions, while the GMAT Focus deducts points for unfinished sections.
My Advice
Do not compare raw numbers across the two exams. Decide which exam your target programs accept, learn its scoring logic and confirm the latest format on the official GRE and GMAT websites.
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