GMAT vs GRE: Which Exam is Better? 

For students looking to obtain advanced degrees, especially in business or management, choosing between the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an important decision. This guide on GMAT vs GRE explores the significant differences between the GMAT and GRE, providing a thorough comparison in areas such as eligibility, format, scoring, and more. By understanding these distinctions, you can make an informed choice about which test best fits your goals and enhances your chances of success.

GMAT vs GRE

When choosing between the GMAT vs GRE, it’s important to recognize the distinct characteristics of each exam to find the one that aligns best with your academic and career objectives. In this section, we’ll explore eligibility, test structure, and format, scoring systems, levels of difficulty, costs, acceptance policies, and available study resources for both exams. Understanding these differences will help you make a smart decision that matches your strengths, goals, and the requirements of the programs you’re interested in.

1. GMAT vs GRE Exam: Who Can Take the Exam?

The GMAT and GRE are accessible to a wide range of candidates, each with few entry requirements. 

• The GMAT is mainly aimed at those seeking admission to graduate business programs, particularly Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. It is ideal for those with a background or interest in business, management, finance, or related fields.
• The GRE is suitable for candidates applying to various graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and business.

Also Read: What is GMAT

2. GMAT vs GRE Exam: Structure and Format

When considering graduate school entrance exams, understanding the structure and format of the GMAT and GRE is essential. Here’s a breakdown of how these two assessments differ:

• The GMAT is specifically designed for business school candidates. It evaluates skills like quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, integrated reasoning, and analytical writing, which are all relevant to business studies. A unique feature of the GMAT is its computer-adaptive format, which adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your performance as you progress through the exam. 
• The GRE comprises verbal and quantitative sections along with analytical writing. It spans a broader audience, including applicants to various graduate programs across disciplines such as business, sciences, and humanities. The GRE also provides flexibility with options like section-level adaptability and the ability to skip certain questions within a section. 

For better comprehension, here is a structured format table for GMAT vs GRE: 

Feature	GMAT	GRE
Target Audience	Primarily business school applicants (MBA programs)	Applicants to a wide range of graduate programs (business, sciences, humanities, etc.)
Section	– Quantitative Reasoning – Verbal Reasoning – Integrated Reasoning – Analytical Writing	– Verbal Reasoning – Quantitative Reasoning – Analytical Writing
Adaptive Format	Yes (computer-adaptive for Quantitative and Verbal)	Section-level adaptive (can skip questions within sections)
Focus	Business-specific skills like problem-solving abilities, data interpretation, and logical reasoning	Broad academic scope, with emphasis on verbal reasoning, math, and general problem-solving
Question Types	Problem-solving, data sufficiency, reading comprehension, critical reasoning, essay writing	Reading comprehension, sentence completion, math problem-solving, essay writing
Flexibility	Limited flexibility (questions get harder or easier based on responses)	More flexible (ability to skip or revisit questions within sections)
Time	3 hours 7 minutes	3 hours 45 minutes

Also Read: GMAT Syllabus

3. GMAT vs GRE: Scoring System

As a prospective graduate student, it is important to understand the scoring systems of the GMAT and GRE. Here’s a comparison of how each exam evaluates performance:

• GMAT scores range from 200 to 800, combining performance in the quantitative and verbal sections, while integrated reasoning and analytical writing are scored separately. 
• The GRE uses a different scale. Scores for both the verbal and quantitative sections range from 130 to 170, while the analytical writing section is scored from 0 to 6. This scoring structure offers a detailed breakdown that may be more appealing to those applying to non-business programs.

For easy comprehension, here is a table comparing the scoring systems of the GMAT vs GRE:

Scoring Aspect	GMAT	GRE
Quantitative Section Score	Part of the combined 200-800 range	130-170
Verbal Section Score	Part of the combined 200-800 range	130-170
Integrated Reasoning Score	Scored separately on a scale of 1-8	Not applicable
Analytical Writing Score	Scored separately on a scale of 0-6	0-6
Total Score Range	200-800 (combines Quantitative + Verbal)	260-340 (combined for Quantitative + Verbal)

Tip: If you need assistance understanding how these scores might influence your application, a study abroad consultant can help you interpret your scores and maximize your application strategy.

4. GMAT vs GRE: Difficulty Level

The difficulty level of each exam can vary based on individual strengths. Here is a breakdown of their differences in difficulty: 

• The GMAT’s adaptive nature and focus on quantitative skills can pose challenges for those who may not feel confident in their math skill.
• GRE covers a broader range of topics and emphasizes verbal skills, including the use of advanced vocabulary. This focus can make the GRE’s verbal section more challenging for those who struggle with language skills. It’s essential to assess your skills to determine which test is the best fit for you.

5. GMAT vs GRE: Exam Fee and Date Availability

The GMAT exam fee has a registration fee of around $275 (approximately ₹23,000), which is somewhat higher than the GRE’s fee of $220 (approximately ₹18,500). Both exams can be taken year-round at various test centers and online. Note that it is important for candidates to plan ahead since peak slots can fill up quickly, especially during application deadlines.

6. GMAT vs GRE: Acceptance and Flexibility

The GMAT is well-respected by business schools, especially for MBA admissions, because of its focus on business-related skills. On the other hand, the GRE’s wider acceptance makes it a more versatile option for individuals considering dual-degree programs or who are unsure about their academic direction. Many top MBA programs now accept both exams, giving applicants the freedom to choose based on their strengths and preferences.

7. GMAT vs GRE: Preparation and Resources

There are plenty of preparation resources for both exams, such as official guides, practice tests, and online tools. GMAT study materials typically emphasize data-driven decision-making and logical reasoning, while GRE preparation tends to focus more on vocabulary, general problem-solving, and analytical skills. Choosing the right resources that align with your strengths and the specific focus of each exam is vital for effective studying.

Here is a list of resources for preparation: 

GMAT Preparation Tools and Resources:

The GMAT is a highly specialized test that requires focused preparation. Effective study materials for the GMAT can be gathered from different sources. Below is an overview of essential resources that can help guide your study sessions.

1. Official GMAT Prep Materials: The official GMAT materials are often the best way to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types. Some of the resources include:
   • MBA.com: The official GMAT website provides a wealth of resources, including sample questions, practice exams, and study guides tailored to the GMAT format.
   • GMATPrep Software: Free software available on MBA.com that offers practice questions and full-length practice tests designed by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).
2. GMAT Prep Books: Prep books offer structured study plans, tips, and extensive practice questions. These resources include;
   • The Official Guide for GMAT Review: Published by GMAC, it provides a comprehensive overview of the test with real GMAT questions and explanations.
   • Kaplan GMAT Prep: Offers in-depth strategies and practice questions that mimic the actual exam format.
   • Princeton Review GMAT Prep: Known for its strategy-focused approach to GMAT preparation.
3. Online Platforms: In addition to physical books, online platforms offer flexible and interactive options for GMAT preparation. Some helpful online platforms include:
   • Magoosh: Offers video lessons, practice questions, and study plans designed for GMAT prep.
   • Manhattan Prep: Known for its rigorous prep materials and strategy-focused courses.
   • GMAT Club: A popular community for GMAT aspirants, offering study guides, practice questions, and expert tips.
4. Mobile Apps: Mobile apps offer convenience for studying on the go. They include practice questions and study guides to ensure that you can study whenever and wherever you are. Some useful apps are:
   • GMAT Official Prep App: Offers practice questions, study tips, and performance tracking.
   • Magoosh GMAT App: Provides a convenient way to study on the go with practice questions and video lessons.

GRE Preparation Tools and Resources:

The GRE tests various skills, including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Hence, it is essential to choose the right preparation tools to develop your strategies and improve your performance across these areas.

1. Official GRE Prep Materials: The official GRE resources directly from ETS (Educational Testing Service) are a great starting point. These materials provide practice questions and tests similar to what you’ll encounter on the actual exam.
   • ETS GRE Official Website: ETS, the maker of the GRE, offers free practice tests, sample questions, and study materials to help you prepare.
   • POWERPREP Software: Free practice tests and explanations from ETS that closely mimic the actual test format.
2. GRE Prep Books: Books dedicated to GRE preparation offer a thorough review of the test content and helpful strategies for tackling complex questions. Some books to prepare for the GRE include:
   • The Official Guide to the GRE: Offers real test questions and detailed explanations for GRE preparation.
   • Kaplan GRE Prep: Comprehensive prep book with practice questions, detailed answers, and test-taking strategies.
   • Barron’s GRE: Known for its detailed content review and practice questions.
3. Online Platforms: Some of the best online platforms and resources available to prepare for GRE exams include:
   • Magoosh GRE Prep: Offers video lessons, practice tests, and study schedules that are perfect for self-paced study.
   • Princeton Review GRE Prep: Provides a mix of practice questions, strategies, and live prep courses.
   • Manhattan Prep GRE: Offers detailed prep books and interactive online courses designed for comprehensive GRE preparation.
4. Mobile Apps: The Gre exams have a series of helpful mobile apps to study and practice when you’re on the move. Some of these include:
   • Magoosh GRE App: Allows you to practice GRE questions, review vocabulary, and track your progress on the go.
   • Ready4 GRE: Provides practice questions, vocabulary lists, and personalized study plans to help improve your GRE score.
5. Study Groups & Forums: Sometimes, connecting with others who are also preparing for the GMAT or GRE can provide helpful tips and moral support. Here are some study groups for the GRE:
   • GRE Forum (Greprepclub.com): A helpful community where you can find study material, advice, and discussion from other GRE test-takers.
   • Reddit GRE Study Group: A popular place to connect with others preparing for the GRE, share resources, and get insights into study strategies.

Which is Easier?: GMAT or GRE 

Choosing between the GMAT and GRE can depend on your individual strengths and what you aim to achieve academically. Those who find math particularly tough might struggle more with the GMAT. On the other hand, the GRE’s focus on vocabulary can pose a challenge for those who are not as confident in their English skills. It’s essential to consider aspects like the exam format, the programs you’re targeting, and your specific skill sets when figuring out which test suits you best.

Conclusion

Deciding between the GMAT and GRE is a significant step in your academic path. Each test has its own focus, with the GMAT targeting skills essential for business and the GRE being applicable to a broader array of fields. Understanding the unique features, advantages, and challenges of both exams will help you make informed choices that can strengthen your application. Regardless of which test you choose, effective preparation and a clear strategy will set you up for success.

If you want to learn more about the GRE you can also check out our blog on what is GRE. 

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