Standardised exams like the GRE and GMAT play a pivotal role in graduate and business school admissions. They provide a common measure to evaluate an applicant’s readiness for advanced study, ensuring a fair comparison across diverse educational backgrounds. These tests assess critical skills such as analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal aptitude, which are essential for success in rigorous academic environments.
Key highlights:
- GMAT or GRE? - Understanding the Tests
- Differences Between GMAT and GRE
- GRE General Structure
- GMAT Structure
- GMAT or GRE – Which Test Should I Choose?
GMAT or GRE? – Understanding the Tests
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are the primary standardised tests accepted by graduate programs worldwide. While the GMAT is traditionally associated with business school applications, the GRE is accepted by a broader range of graduate programs, including business schools. Both exams evaluate analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills. However, they differ in structure, content, and scoring.
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Differences Between GMAT and GRE
Let’s understand the GMAT and GRE differences.
| Feature | GMAT | GRE |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Primarily for business schools and MBA admissions | Accepted by a wide range of graduate programmes, including MBAs |
| Structure | Quantitative Reasoning Verbal Reasoning Data Insights | Analytical Writing Verbal ReasoningQuantitative Reasoning |
| Scoring Range | 205-805 (combined score) | 260-340 (combined score) |
| Test Duration | 2 hours and 15 minutes | 3 hours and 45 minutes |
| Quantitative Focus | Emphasises data analysis and interpretation | Includes more questions related to geometry |
| Verbal Focus | Focuses on grammar and reasoning | Emphasises vocabulary and reading comprehension |
| Acceptance | Widely accepted by business schools | Accepted by multiple universities across graduate programmes, include business schools |
GRE General Structure
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 task | 30 minutes |
|
| Verbal Reasoning | Section 1: 12 questions Section 2: 15 questions |
Section 1: 18 minutes Section 2: 23 minutes |
|
| Quantitative Reasoning | Section 1: 12 questions Section 2: 15 questions |
Section 1: 21 minutes Section 2: 26 minutes |
|
GMAT Structure
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 questions | 45 minutes |
|
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 questions | 45 minutes |
|
| Data Insights | 20 questions | 45 minutes |
|
GMAT or GRE – Which Test Should I Choose?
Apart from understanding the differences between GRE and GMAT, here are some additional tips to help you pick the right test for your higher education.
Which Test Is Easier?
Most students will want to select the easier test to improve their scores and maximise their chances of gaining admission. Despite the differences between the GMAT and GRE, one test is not actually easier than the other. The GRE includes more geometry, while the GMAT involves more grammar and reasoning.
What Are My Academic Goals?
Your academic goals and course options will impact your decision. Students pursuing non-business degrees will mostly have to take the GRE. However, students pursuing an MBA will likely have to complete the GMAT.
What Are the University Requirements?
Each university will list its preferred test for your chosen course. So, it’s a good idea to check the university website before picking between the GMAT and GRE.
Choosing between the GMAT and GRE is a decision that will depend on your goals, strengths, and university-specific requirements. Regardless of your choice, both exams are stepping stones toward achieving your dream education and career.
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