GRE vs GMAT: Which Exam Should You Take for Business Schools?

Are you puzzled about whether to choose the GRE or the GMAT? Confused about which exam to take for your business school applications? If yes, you're not alone. Many prospective students face this dilemma. To help you make an informed decision, let's look into a detailed comparison of the GRE and GMAT, focusing on their differences, difficulty levels, and their relevance for MBA programs.

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) are both standardized tests used for graduate school admissions, but they have some key differences. Here's a comparative account:

Purpose and Usage

• GRE: Used for a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral programs in various fields such as humanities, sciences, and engineering.

• GMAT: Primarily used for admissions to business schools and MBA programs.

Let’s say If you are planning to pursue an MS (Master of science) in Electrical Engineering, the desired test to take would be the GRE, as it is accepted by a wide range of graduate programs in engineering and sciences. Conversely, if you are specifically looking for management studies, such as an MBA or a master's in business Analytics, you should opt for the GMAT, which is primarily designed for business school admissions.

Test Structure

• GRE:

• Sections: Analytical Writing (2 tasks), Verbal Reasoning (2 sections), Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections), and an Unscored/Research section.

• Duration: About 3 hours and 45 minutes.

• Scoring: Verbal and Quantitative sections scored between 130-170 each; Analytical Writing scored between 0-6.

• GMAT:

• Sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (1 task), Integrated Reasoning (12 questions), Quantitative Reasoning (31 questions), and Verbal Reasoning (36 questions).

• Duration: About 3 hours and 30 minutes.

• Scoring: Total score ranges from 200-800; Quantitative and Verbal sections scored between 6-51 each; Integrated Reasoning scored between 1-8; Analytical Writing scored between 0-6.

Content Focus

• GRE: Emphasizes a broader range of skills, including vocabulary and general quantitative skills. The math section is considered less intensive compared to the GMAT.
• GMAT: Focuses more on logic, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, particularly in a business context. The quantitative section is more rigorous.

Difficulty Level

• GRE or GMAT - Which is Easier?: This depends on the individual’s strengths. The GRE is generally perceived as easier in terms of the math section, but the vocabulary can be challenging. The GMAT's quantitative section is tougher, but it may be easier for those with strong analytical and reasoning skills.

MBA Admissions

• GMAT vs GRE for MBA: Business schools traditionally prefer the GMAT, but many now accept the GRE as well. The GMAT is designed specifically for business school candidates, so it might be seen as a more relevant measure of readiness for MBA programs.

What is the Difference Between GRE and GMAT?

Take a look at the flow chart and get answers to all your questions

Score Comparison

GRE and GMAT Equivalent Scores: Converting GRE scores to GMAT scores is not straightforward, but ETS (the GRE test maker) provides a comparison tool to help approximate equivalent scores.

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Why use the GRE® Comparison Tool for Business Schools?

Many business schools and institutions accept both the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) General Test and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) exam as part of the admissions process. The purpose of the Comparison Tool is to provide a way for institutions to appropriately compare results from the two exams. The GRE Comparison Tool allows score users to predict GMAT Total, Verbal, and Quantitative scores using a test taker’s GRE Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores from the GRE General Test (130–170 scale). For instance, a GRE score of 320 (160 verbal + 160 quantitative) is roughly equivalent to a GMAT score of 650.

Choosing Between GRE and GMAT: The decision should be based on the specific requirements of the programs you are applying to, your personal strengths, and the type of preparation you are willing to undertake. If you are aiming for a non-business graduate program or a business program that accepts both, the GRE might be a better choice. For exclusive business school applications, the GMAT might hold an edge.

Must Read: How to prepare for GRE

Is GRE Easier Than GMAT?

The GRE is generally considered easier in terms of its quantitative section but more difficult in terms of its verbal section due to vocabulary challenges. The GMAT is seen as more challenging overall, particularly for those who struggle with quantitative reasoning.

GRE vs GMAT Score Comparison

Conclusion

Choosing between the GRE and GMAT depends on your career goals, the programs you are applying to, and your strengths. If you are focused solely on business school, the GMAT may be more advantageous. Hope the fog has now lifted and you're clearer on the right path to take!

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