GRE vs GMAT - All You Need To Know!

Pursuing MBA for higher studies is an important decision and one of the key considerations that a candidate should appear for which Entrance test – the GRE or the GMAT.

Both tests are widely accepted by business schools worldwide, but there are differences that aspiring applicants should be aware of. In this blog, we will compare both examinations so that you can make a clear decision for your future.

The GRE is a general graduate admission exam that is accepted by a wide range of universities, including business schools. It assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.

The GRE tests the candidate’s ability to think critically and solve problems. It is worth noting that the GRE is the more popular choice among business school applicants due to its broader acceptance.

On the other hand, GMAT is specifically designed for business school admissions. It focuses on assessing skills considered crucial for success in a business school environment, such as analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning.

Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) administers GMAT, which is widely accepted by business schools globally.

Key Differences

Now, let’s delve deeper into the specific sections of both exams to understand their differences:

1. Exam Purpose

The GRE is a general admissions test accepted by a wide range of graduate programs, including business schools. In contrast, the GMAT is specifically designed for business school admissions, focusing on assessing skills crucial for success in a business school environment.

2. Test Structure

The GRE consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing. Conversely, the GMAT includes four sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. The presence of the Integrated Reasoning section is a notable distinction unique to the GMAT.

3. Analytical Writing Assessment

The GRE and GMAT include an analytical writing assessment section, but some variations exist. The GRE requires test-takers to write two essays – one analyzing an issue and the other analyzing an argument. In contrast, the GMAT requires a single essay analyzing an argument. The essays are scored on a scale of 0 to 6 for both exams.

4.  Quantitative Reasoning

The quantitative reasoning sections on both exams assess your mathematical abilities but differ in content and format. The GRE places more emphasis on data interpretation, while the GMAT focuses on problem-solving skills. One can use a calculator in the GRE. The scoring scales for the quantitative reasoning sections are also different, with the GRE scoring on a scale of 130 to 170 and the GMAT scoring on a scale of 0 to 60.

5.  Verbal Reasoning

The verbal reasoning sections of both exams assess your reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical reasoning skills. However, the GRE places more emphasis on vocabulary, while the GMAT focuses more on critical reasoning. The GRE scoring for verbal reasoning ranges from 130 to 170, while the GMAT scoring ranges from 0 to 60.

6. Integrated Reasoning (GMAT Only)

The GMAT includes an integrated reasoning section, testing your ability to analyze and interpret data from different sources. This section assesses skills required in business, such as data analysis, graphical interpretation, and logical reasoning. The integrated reasoning section is scored separately on a scale of 1 to 8.

Here’s An Overview Comparing the Two Exams: GRE vs GMAT

Differences	GMAT	GRE
Which Exam to Take	The GMAT test is required for admission to most business schools.	GRE test is required for admission to most graduate schools and a growing number of business schools.
Accepted by	Most graduate business programs	Most graduate programs, including business
Test Format	Computer Adaptive Test	Computer Adaptive Test
How It’s Scored	The overall, or composite, GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800 in 10-point increments. Verbal and Quantitative scores range from 0 to 60 in 1-point increments.	Verbal and Quantitative scores on the GRE range from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.
Location	Online or at a testing center	Online or at a testing center
Testing Time	3 hours 7 minutes	3.75 hours (Computer) — 3.5 hours (Paper)
Number of sections	4	6 (1 unscored research section included)
AWA section	1 essay – 30 minutes	2 essays – 60 minutes
Cost (US)	$250 online or $275 in person	$205 (includes free score delivery to up to four schools)
AWA section	1 essay – 30 minutes	2 essays – 60 minutes

Choosing the Right Test:

Now that we have explored the similarities and differences between the GRE and GMAT, how do you decide which exam to take? Here are some factors to consider:

1. Target Business Schools: Research the requirements of the business schools you are interested in. While most schools accept both exams, however, some colleges may prefer one over the other. Take note of the average scores accepted by your target schools to gauge the level of competitiveness.

2. Skillset: Assess your strengths and weaknesses in different areas. If you excel in mathematical problem-solving, the GMAT better fits you. If you have a strong vocabulary and excel in critical reading, the GRE might be a more suitable choice.

3. Test Format: Consider the format and structure of the exams. Give practice tests for the GMAT and GRE to get a feel for the questions and determine which test aligns better with your test-taking style.

4. Retake Policy: Look into the retake policies of the exams. If you believe you may need to retake the test, consider the waiting period and the number of attempts allowed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision between the GRE and GMAT depends on several factors, including the business schools you are applying to, your strengths and weaknesses, and the format of the exams.

A student must research and understand the requirements of their target schools to make an informed decision. Additionally, taking practice tests and seeking professional guidance can help you determine which exam suits you best.

Remember, the GRE and GMAT are just one part of the admissions process, and a strong overall application is crucial for success in gaining admission to your desired business school.