While historically, the GMAT has been the primary test for MBA applicants, the GRE has recently gained popularity amongst test-takers and B-schools. Admission committees have been very vocal that they do not differentiate between GRE and GMAT test scores, and applicants are welcome to take the test of their choice. This creates a new dilemma amongst applicants regarding whether to take the GRE or the GMAT. Let’s analyze the two tests to help you figure out which test would be a better fit for you.
GRE | GMAT |
Accepted by most graduate schools irrespective of the major | Accepted mostly only by business schools. |
3 hours 45 minutes duration | 3 hours 7 minutes duration |
Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning | Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, Verbal |
Score range - 260-340 | Score range - 200-800 |
Calculator use allowed | No calculator use allowed |
Can skip questions and revisit | Cannot skip questions and revisit |
GRE verbal has more emphasis on vocabulary | GMAT verbal has more emphasis on grammar |
GMAC has now introduced a GMAT Focus Edition, whereas the ETS has now introduced a shortened GRE version. Here are the basic differences between them:
GRE Shortened Exam | GMAT Focus Edition | |
Total Time | 1 hr + 58 minutes | 2 hr + 15 minutes |
Total Sections |
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Break | No breaks | Single 10-minute break |
Some factors to help you decide between taking the GRE and GMAT:
Intent to pursue a business degree
While both the GMAT and GRE are accepted at business schools, the GMAT is very well tailored to the MBA curriculum and tests skills relevant to the MBA. Thus, if you are very sure about pursuing an MBA over any other graduate program, you should take the GMAT to signal a solid intent to pursue a business degree.
Higher mock scores
Another piece of advice for very confused candidates is to attempt one mock test for both the GRE and the GMAT. Giving a mock test would help you judge which exam tests concepts and topics you are more comfortable with. If you feel you could reach the target GRE score with lower effort, you should go for it.
We found a brilliant blog by Coursera that you could refer to and read here.
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