What Is the Difference Between GMAT vs GRE for MBA?

The GMAT and GRE are standardized tests accepted by MBA programs worldwide. The GMAT focuses on skills relevant to business and management, like quantitative reasoning and data analysis. The GRE, on the other hand, is broader, testing verbal reasoning and analytical writing, making it suitable for various graduate programs.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this article:

• Key differences between the GMAT and GRE
• Structure and scoring of each test
• Which test aligns better with your MBA goals

Choosing the right exam can boost your chances of MBA admission. Dive in to make an informed decision!

What are the GMAT and GRE?

GMAT

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is designed specifically for business school applicants. It assesses your readiness for graduate-level academic work in business and management. The GMAT is commonly required for admission to MBA programs and is recognized for its rigorous focus on analytical skills.

GRE

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), on the other hand, is a more versatile test accepted by various graduate programs, including business schools. The GRE measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Its broader scope makes it a viable choice for applicants considering multiple types of graduate programs.

Key Differences Between GMAT and GRE

Test Format

Understanding the format of each test can help you decide which one aligns better with your strengths and preferences.

• GMAT: The GMAT consists of four sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. The test lasts 3 hours and 7 minutes.
• GRE: The GRE features three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. It lasts about 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Scoring

Each test has its unique scoring system, which can influence your choice based on your comfort with each format.

• GMAT: The GMAT aggregate score ranges from 205 to 805 in 10-point increments. The Quantitative and Verbal sections contribute to this score, while Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing have separate scores.
• GRE: The GRE scores range from 130 to 170 per section (Verbal and Quantitative) in 1-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6.

Section Types

The content and focus of each section also differ, emphasizing distinct skills.

• GMAT: The test focuses more on quantitative and analytical skills required for business decision-making.
  • Analytical Writing: Assessing the quality of your arguments.
  • Integrated Reasoning: Evaluating your ability to analyze data presented in multiple formats.
  • Quantitative: Testing your problem-solving abilities.
  • Verbal: Measuring your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills.
• GRE: The GRE covers a broader range of academic skills.
  • Analytical Writing: Testing your critical thinking and analytical writing abilities.
  • Verbal Reasoning: Assessing your ability to analyze and evaluate written material.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Evaluating your problem-solving skills with a more straightforward math section.

Costs

The cost of each exam varies slightly, which could be a consideration depending on your budget.

• GMAT: The test fee ranges from $250 to $275.
• GRE: The GRE costs $205.

GMAT Structure and Scoring

Sections

The GMAT is designed to assess different skill sets critical for business school success.

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This section requires you to analyze an argument and communicate your assessment in writing. You have 30 minutes to complete this section.
• Integrated Reasoning (IR): Testing your ability to interpret and synthesize information from multiple sources, this section includes 12 questions over 30 minutes.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Featuring 31 questions in 62 minutes, this section evaluates your mathematical problem-solving skills without the use of a calculator. It focuses on data sufficiency and problem-solving questions.
• Verbal Reasoning: In this 65-minute section with 36 questions, your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills are tested.

Scoring

The total GMAT score ranges from 205 to 805. The Quantitative and Verbal sections contribute to this score:

• Quantitative and Verbal: Scored on a scale of 6 to 51.
• AWA: Scores range from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
• IR: Scores range from 1 to 8 in single-point increments.

GRE Structure and Scoring

Sections

The GRE is more generalist and includes specific sections designed to measure a range of skills.

• Analytical Writing: This section is split into two tasks: Issue and Argument essays. Each task takes 30 minutes.
• Verbal Reasoning: Featuring two sections with 20 questions each, you have 30 minutes per section. Emphasis is on reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Also consisting of two 20-question sections, you have 35 minutes per section. The math problems include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis, and you can use a calculator.
• Unscored Section: This optional section does not count toward your final score but helps ETS test new questions for future exams.

Scoring

The GRE scoring system varies per section:

• Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning: Scored on a scale from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.
• Analytical Writing: Scored on a scale from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.

Skills Tested in GMAT vs GRE

Analytical Writing

• GMAT: Focuses on analyzing an argument within a business context. Clarity, coherence, and logical presentation are essential.
• GRE: Tests your ability to articulate complex ideas and construct well-reasoned arguments on general topics, encompassing a broader range of subjects than the GMAT.

Verbal Reasoning

• GMAT: Revolves around reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and correcting grammatical errors in the context of business texts.
• GRE: Includes reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence, often requiring a stronger grasp of advanced academic vocabulary.

Quantitative Reasoning

• GMAT: This section emphasizes data sufficiency and problem-solving using higher-level math concepts, often without a calculator.
• GRE: The GRE’s Quantitative section is considered more straightforward and allows the use of a calculator, which can be advantageous if you are less confident with mental math.

Integrated Reasoning (Exclusive to GMAT)

This section is unique to the GMAT and aims to measure your ability to evaluate data from multiple sources, a skill relevant to business management.

Choosing between the GMAT and GRE for your MBA application ultimately depends on your strengths and test preferences. Understanding how each test evaluates different skills can guide you toward the option that best aligns with your abilities and career goals.

Which Test is Easier: GMAT or GRE?

Factors Contributing to Difficulty

When determining whether the GMAT or GRE is easier, it’s essential to consider several factors. Both exams present their own set of challenges, influenced by your unique skills and preparedness.

• Mathematical Complexity:
  The GMAT is often perceived as harder due to its quantitative section, which includes challenging data sufficiency questions that require understanding complex concepts. In contrast, the GRE’s quantitative section is perceived as more straightforward and allows the use of a calculator.
• Verbal Reasoning:
  If your strength lies in vocabulary, the GRE might be easier. The GRE Verbal Reasoning section focuses heavily on advanced vocabulary and text completion. Conversely, the GMAT Verbal section emphasizes critical reasoning and reading comprehension relevant to business contexts.
• Analytical Writing:
  Both tests include writing tasks, but they differ in their focus. The GMAT evaluates your ability to analyze an argument critically. The GRE, on the other hand, includes both analysis of an issue and argument, requiring broader essay-writing skills.
• Test Format and Adaptive Nature:
  The GMAT is computer-adaptive at the section level, which means it adjusts the difficulty based on your performance. The GRE is section-adaptive, meaning the second section adjusts based on your performance in the first section of the same type. This format can affect perceived difficulty; some test-takers find the GRE’s format less intimidating.

Your experience with each test will vary based on strengths in specific areas. Familiarity with the test formats and consistent practice can mitigate difficulty perceptions.

Do Business Schools Prefer GMAT or GRE?

Admissions Insights

Understanding the preference of business schools can guide your decision between the GMAT and GRE. Here are some insights:

• Acceptance Rates:
  Most top business schools accept both GMAT and GRE scores. However, historically, the GMAT has been the preferred test for MBA programs. This trend is changing as more schools embrace the GRE.
• Program-Specific Preferences:
  Some business schools explicitly state they have no preference between the GMAT and GRE. Admissions officers have emphasized that the key is to submit the test where you perform best, showcasing your academic potential effectively.
• Admissions Committees:
  Admissions committees understand that applicants come from diverse backgrounds. Thus, they appreciate that the GRE offers a wider applicant pool, including those considering various graduate programs.
• Competitiveness:
  Submitting a high GMAT score might stand out if a program is traditionally GMAT-centric. Nonetheless, a high GRE score is equally competitive, as schools use conversion tools to compare GRE scores within the context of other applicants.

Ultimately, the focus should be on presenting the strongest application possible. Whether you choose the GMAT or GRE, ensure it aligns with your skills and the expectations of your target schools.

How to Choose Between GMAT and GRE

Self-Assessment and Goals

Your choice between the GMAT and GRE should be informed by a thorough self-assessment and your career aspirations.

• Evaluate Strengths:
  Reflect on your competencies in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing. If you excel in vocabulary and verbal skills, the GRE might be the better option. If you have strong analytical and quantitative skills, you may find the GMAT more suitable.
• Consider Career Goals:
  If you’re solely focused on pursuing an MBA, the GMAT could demonstrate your commitment to business schools. If you’re considering broader graduate studies, the GRE offers flexibility for various programs.
• Program Requirements:
  Research your target schools’ preferences. Some programs might provide insights into whether they favor one test over the other. Align your choices accordingly.
• Preparation Time:
  Factor in the time you have for test preparation. The GMAT and GRE each require significant preparation, but the content and strategies differ. Choose the test for which you can efficiently allocate study time and resources.
• Financial Consideration:
  While the cost differences are minimal, consider additional expenses such as prep courses, study materials, and test retakes.

By evaluating these factors with your long-term objectives, you can make an informed decision that enhances your application strength.

Preparation Tips for GMAT and GRE

Effective Study Strategies

Preparing for either the GMAT or GRE requires a focused approach and the right study strategies.

• Create a Study Plan:
  Develop a study schedule that covers the content areas of your chosen test, allowing ample time for each section.
• Practice Tests:
  Utilize official practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and timing. These will help identify weaknesses and measure progress.
• Study Materials:
  Invest in high-quality study guides, online courses, and question banks specifically designed for the GMAT or GRE. These resources provide insights into test strategies and common question types.
• Sectional Focus:
  Focus on individual sections where you need improvement. Allocate more time to challenging areas, whether it’s quantitative problem-solving for the GMAT or verbal reasoning for the GRE.
• Simulate Test Conditions:
  Practice under timed conditions to build stamina and reduce anxiety. Simulating full test scenarios helps acclimate you to the test environment.
• Review and Analyze:
  After each practice test, review incorrect answers to understand mistakes. Analyzing errors aids in refining strategies and improving accuracy.
• Seek Feedback:
  Consider joining study groups or seeking feedback from instructors. Collaboration can provide new perspectives and tips from fellow test-takers.

Effective preparation is crucial in achieving a competitive score. Stay consistent, utilize diverse resources, and maintain a positive mindset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Queries about GMAT vs GRE for MBA

Can I submit both GMAT and GRE scores?

Yes, some schools allow you to submit both scores. This can potentially strengthen your application by showcasing your versatility.

How long are GMAT and GRE scores valid?

Both GMAT and GRE scores are valid for five years from the test date. Plan your test-taking strategy accordingly, aligning with your application timeline.

Can I retake the tests?

Yes, you can retake both exams. For the GMAT, you can take it up to five times in a 12-month period, with a lifetime limit of eight attempts. The GRE can be taken up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period.

Which test has a more straightforward quantitative section?

The GRE’s quantitative section is generally considered more straightforward and allows the use of a calculator, which some test-takers find advantageous.

Conclusion

Deciding between the GMAT and GRE for MBA boils down to understanding your strengths, career goals, and preferences. Whether you choose the GMAT or GRE, each test offers a pathway to demonstrate your academic abilities to business schools. By preparing effectively and aligning your choice with your MBA aspirations, you can present a compelling application that stands out to admissions committees.

In the end, the best test for you is the one that allows you to showcase your strengths and align with your MBA program’s expectations.