GRE vs GMAT- Which Test Should You Choose?

When seeking admissions to MBA or other degree programs, the two most popular exams, GRE and GMAT, dominate everyone’s mind. However, choosing which exam to go for can be quite a dilemma for many students.

Both the tests share some similarities and a few differences, and understanding them can help you make an informed choice. To help you in your quest, here we have compared both GMAT and GRE tests. So check out this article to make the right decision when applying to either of them!

GRE vs GMAT

• The significant difference between both the tests is that GMAT is required to take admissions exclusively to business schools. In contrast, GRE is accepted for a wide range of graduate programs and a growing number of business schools.

• GMAT is a computer-adaptive test. On the other hand, GRE is a computer-based test and can also be offered in a paper version in the regions lacking computer-delivering testing.

• Many universities accept both the GRE and the GMAT; however, certain universities will only accept either test. So, you must check whether the universities you are applying for accept GMAT, GRE, or both.

• The GMAT and GRE scores are valid for up to five years; however, the repetitions of both exams differ. You can retake the GMAT every 31 days to 5 attempts in a year. For the GRE, you can retake the test every 21 days to 5 attempts in a calendar year.

Test Structure

• The GMAT evaluates candidates for their Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment, Quantitative, and Verbal Skills. On the other hand, the structure of the GRE consists of three parameters: Verbal, Analytical, and Mathematical skills.
• The testing time for GMAT is 3.5 hours: 75 minutes for Quantitative Section, 30 minutes for the Analytical Writing Section with one essay, 30 minutes for Integrated Reasoning, and 75 minutes for Verbal Section.
• The testing time for GRE is 3.75 hours for a computer-based test and 3.5 hours for a paper-based test: 70 minutes for Analytical Writing Section with two essays, 30 minutes each for two Verbal Sections, 35 minutes each for two Quantitative Sections, and 30-35 minutes for Experimental Section--either Quantitative or Verbal.

Eligibility Criteria

There are no precise requirements for taking the GMAT test; however, the applicant must be a graduate of a university of recognised standing.

Likewise, there are no predetermined rules or requirements for taking the GRE Test. However, applicants should confirm the GRE eligibility requirements for the various institutions and programmes they are applying to pursue a graduate degree.

One crucial thing to comprehend is that the GRE and GMAT are not the only requirements for admission to a university; some specific qualifying requirements are also there that vary from university to university.

Which is Easier?

The GMAT generally favours candidates with strong quantitative and analytical abilities who are adept at deciphering data presented in charts, tables, and text to resolve challenging problems. Compared to the GMAT, the GRE maths part is typically easier and contains calculators for all quantitative problems.

Students with good editing skills may perform well in the verbal component of the GMAT, whereas students with strong vocabulary can do better in the GRE.

Finally, you have to determine which test is easier based on your strengths and weaknesses. And accordingly, you should work to improve on different components of the test you are planning to take!

All the best!

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