GRE vs GMAT: Which Exam Should You Take?

One goal, two pathways: GRE vs GMAT. The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) and GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) are both accepted by world’s leading business schools. If you’re keeping your options to other master’s programs abroad, the GRE is the better choice. But if your focus is only on MBA, the decision is not as straightforward. So how do you decide?

When it comes to choosing between the GRE and GMAT for your B-school applications, there’s no one right answer. Both tests are tough and easy in their own way. Many find GRE Math a bit easier. So, if you like using a calculator and are okay with geometry, the GRE Math may feel better. On the other hand, if you're good at solving problems and working through numbers quickly in your head, the GMAT might suit you more. Given the differences, it is safe to say that you must pick the test that feels more natural to you.

So, which one aligns with your strengths? This article breaks it down so you can choose wisely.

What is the Role of GRE and GMAT in Your B-School Journey?

The GRE has long been the gold standard for admissions to international postgraduate programs, like engineering and law, and now, business schools are taking note too.

Accepted by a growing number of top B-schools and law programs around the world, the flexibility and reach of the GRE exam make it a strong choice for applicants exploring diverse academic paths.

Here’s what it evaluates:

• Verbal Reasoning: your ability to understand and evaluate written material.
• Quantitative Reasoning: your capacity to solve problems using basic math and logic.
• Analytical Writing: how well you can build and communicate complex arguments.

It tests general skills, not subject-specific knowledge, making it ideal for candidates with interdisciplinary interests.

👇Good to know:

Coming to the GMAT exam, unlike general standardized tests, it is built with one purpose: to assess the potential of future business leaders. Global B-schools trust it because:

• It reflects the demands of real-world business roles
• It shows who’s ready for the rigor of MBA classrooms
• It’s aligned with the skills employers value most

It has 3 main sections:

• Quantitative Reasoning: How well you solve problems using logic and math and without a calculator.
• Verbal Reasoning: How clearly you read and evaluate arguments, focusing on comprehension and critical thinking.
• Data Insights: How well you interpret charts, tables, and multiple data sources ( calculator allowed).

The GMAT focuses on the precise analytical, quantitative, and strategic thinking skills that today’s top business schools seek, making it a top choice among MBA aspirants.

👇Good to know:

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What is the difference between GRE and GMAT?

By now, you have understood how these two competitive exams can strengthen your B-school application. Below, we’ll break down the key differences between these standardized tests. Knowing these differences can help you decide which exam aligns better with your career goals.

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GRE vs GMAT: Scoring System

GMAT/GRE aspirants feel that the knowledge of the exam scoring system helps them focus on the most important topics and aim for a higher score.

Take a look at this table to understand the score range of both the exams.

👉What else you should know?

• The total score on both the exam is calculated by combining your subscores from each section of the exam.
• In the GMAT, scores from the Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights sections are combined.
• In the GRE, scores from the Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Analytical Writing are combined.
• There is no negative marking in either exam, so it is important to attempt all questions.
• In the GRE, if you leave even one question unanswered in either of Verbal Reasoning or Quantitative sections, you will get a No Score (NS) for that section.

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GRE vs GMAT: Exam Format

Before you start preparing, it is important to understand the structure of the exam you plan to take. Once you know how both the GRE and GMAT are organized, you'll be in a better position to choose the test that best aligns with your B-school requirements. For example, if your target school has specific score cutoffs for each section, understanding the exam format will help you determine which test gives you a better chance at meeting those benchmarks.

Take a look at the section-by-section comparison of the GRE and GMAT below to make an informed and strategic decision:

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GRE vs GMAT: Exam Syllabus

Once you're familiar with both formats, check out the universities you're interested in and their admission requirements. Then, go through the syllabus to see which test matches your strengths. If a program focuses on Quant skills, compare the math syllabus of each exam to find the one that covers topics you're most confident in. Picking the test that highlights your strengths and aligns with your target programs can enhance your application.

*In no particular order.

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At this point, you’re thinking about two important questions:

1. GRE or GMAT: Which exam is easier?

⚠Neither test is objectively easier.

• If you're good with vocabulary and enjoy reading complex texts, you might find the GRE verbal section easier.
• If you’re better at logical reasoning and working with data, the GMAT Focus Edition may feel more intuitive, especially since it doesn’t emphasize advanced vocabulary as much. 
• GRE has a writing section, while GMAT Focus Edition skips that but includes Data Insights, which can be tricky if you're not confident analyzing charts and tables.

2. GRE or GMAT: Which exam should you take?

Before you find answer to this question, ask yourself:

• What your target schools accept?
• Which test aligns with your career goals?

While most MBA programs accept both GMAT and GRE, many favor the GMAT as it focuses on business-related skills. This preference does not just stop at admissions; it extends into recruitment as well. Many leading consulting firms, investment banks, and Fortune 500 companies take GMAT scores into account when evaluating candidates. If you aim to work in core business areas such as finance, management consulting, or strategy, a high GMAT score can give you an edge.

For those of you keeping options open for other graduate programs, like engineering, law, or economics, the GRE is a better choice. Many non-business master's degrees and Ph.D. programs accept GRE scores, which makes it perfect if you want to explore dual-degree options such as MBA + MS (technology/engineering) or MBA + JD (law).

CL Tip: Check the average score range for students accepted into the programs you're considering to help you decide between the GMAT and the GRE.

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How Should You Start Preparing for GMAT/GRE?

No matter which test you decide on, here’s how you should begin your prep to feel confident throughout your journey:

• Take a diagnostic test: Start by taking a full-length diagnostic test for both the GRE and GMAT. This will give you a clear picture of where you currently stand in your journey.
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses: After you get your diagnostic results, figure out which parts you're good at and which need more efforts. As you spend time to make your strong areas even stronger, focus more on getting better at your weak spots.
• Understand the test structure and format: Search about how many sections there are, what kinds of questions you'll see, and how long you have for each test. Knowing all this will let you manage your time better.
• Set a realistic timeline: Most students need around 2-4 months of focused preparation. Create a study schedule based on how many hours you can commit each week.
• Balance your prep smartly: You might want to keep practicing what you're good at, but don't skip the topics that feel alien to you. Start with the tough topics when you have more time and less stress (that’s to say, in the beginning of your prep itself). Spread out your efforts to improve all areas, not just the ones you're comfortable with.

After your GRE/GMAT study plan is ready, make sure to practice often. Begin to solve questions with time limits for each section to get better at being accurate and fast. Look where you went wrong, write down your mistakes, and keep an eye on how you improve each week.

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GMAT vs GRE: Post-MBA Career Plan

You heard it right, there are companies that consider your GMAT scores at the time of shortlisting interviewees. They specifically pay attention to the verbal and the quant sections of GMAT and the subsequent scores of a candidate.

Consulting, financial, and other traditional MBA employers often ask for your GMAT scores and in case you have a passable GMAT score, they consider your application in comparison to another MBA from the same domain. It is always suggested that you mention your GMAT scores in your resume, to help you score job interviews. As for GRE scorers, such opportunities are very rare since the examination emphasizes graduate level programs more than business programs. Organizations do not see much of a reason to accept GRE scores while hiring employees and interns for managerial positions.

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Is GMAT better than the GRE for MBA?

When it comes to pursuing an MBA, the decision to take either the GMAT or GRE is a major one. While both tests are widely accepted by some business schools, there are some key differences to consider before deciding which one to take. In this write-up, we'll explore why the GMAT may be the better choice for MBA admissions.

GMAT: Designed Specifically for Business School

One of the most significant differences between the GMAT and GRE is that the former is designed specifically for business school admissions. The GMAT exam has been around for decades and is trusted by top business schools around the world. This is because it is specifically validated to predict performance in the first year of an MBA program.

On the other hand, the GRE is a general graduate school exam that is accepted by a wide variety of non-business graduate programs. While some MBA programs do accept GRE scores, taking the GMAT communicates to business schools that you are committed to pursuing a degree in this field.

GMAT: Examines Relevant Business Skills

The GMAT exam is designed to measure skills that are highly relevant to success in a graduate business program and your future career in business. Each section of the GMAT is designed to target specific skills, such as analytical writing, critical reasoning, and data interpretation. Preparing for the GMAT not only helps you achieve your best score, but it also hones your skills and knowledge in these areas. This can give you a competitive edge in business school and in your future career.

GMAT: Potential Career Benefits

In addition to its use in admissions, the GMAT may also have career benefits. Some top-tier consulting firms and employers consider GMAT scores in their hiring process. Achieving a high GMAT score can demonstrate your strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and potential for success in a business environment.

Overall, the decision to take the GMAT or GRE for MBA admissions ultimately depends on your personal circumstances and goals. However, if you're specifically interested in pursuing an MBA or master's degree in business, the GMAT may be the better choice. Its focus on business-specific skills and validation for predicting performance in the first year of an MBA program can make it a more compelling choice for business schools.

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