A comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right standardized test for your graduate school ambitions.
If you're planning to pursue graduate studies—whether it's an MBA, Master's in any field, or even a PhD—you've likely encountered a pivotal question: Should I take the GRE or GMAT?
This decision can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Both exams are widely accepted, and the "right" choice depends largely on your target programs, your strengths, and your career goals.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down every aspect of both exams—from format and content to scoring and acceptance—helping you make an informed decision. By the end, you'll know exactly which test aligns best with your profile and ambitions.
Remember: the exam you choose is just one part of your application. Focus on performing your best on whichever test you select, rather than agonizing over the choice itself.
Administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the GRE is a general test of graduate-level aptitude. Originally designed for academia, it's now widely accepted for MBA programs as well.
Administered by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council), the GMAT is specifically designed to assess skills needed for success in graduate management education.
| Aspect | GRE General (2023+) | GMAT Focus (2024+) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Duration | 1 hour 58 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Sections | Verbal, Quant, AWA | Quant, Verbal, Data Insights |
| Total Questions | ~54 + 1 essay | 64 questions |
| Adaptive Type | Section-level adaptive | Question-level adaptive |
| Navigate Questions | Yes, within section | No (locked once answered) |
| Calculator | On-screen for all quant | Available for Quant section only |
| Score Range | 260-340 (Verbal + Quant) | 205-805 (total score) |
| GRE Verbal | GMAT Verbal |
|---|---|
| Text Completion | Critical Reasoning |
| Sentence Equivalence | Reading Comprehension |
| Reading Comprehension | — |
| Heavy vocabulary focus | Logic and reasoning focus |
GRE Verbal: Tests advanced vocabulary through fill-in-the-blank style questions. Strong emphasis on knowing difficult English words and their contexts.
GMAT Verbal: Tests logical reasoning and critical thinking. Questions focus on analyzing arguments, finding assumptions, and evaluating conclusions. Less vocabulary-heavy.
Both exams test similar math concepts (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis), but with different emphases:
GRE - Quantitative Comparison: Determine if Quantity A is greater, Quantity B is greater, they're equal, or relationship cannot be determined.
GMAT - Data Sufficiency: Given a question and two statements, determine if statement 1 alone, statement 2 alone, both together, either alone, or neither is sufficient to answer the question.
GMAT - Data Insights: Multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis. Tests integrated reasoning with data from multiple sources.
| Competitiveness | GRE Total | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Average | 300-310 | ~50% |
| Good | 315-320 | ~75% |
| Excellent | 320-330 | ~90% |
| Top Tier | 330+ | ~98% |
| Competitiveness | GMAT Focus | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Average | 500-550 | ~40-55% |
| Good | 600-650 | ~70-85% |
| Excellent | 700-730 | ~90-95% |
| Top Tier (M7) | 730+ | ~96%+ |
ETS provides official concordance tables. Rough equivalencies:
"Which is easier?" is the most common question, but the answer depends entirely on your strengths.
| Aspect | GRE | GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary Requirement | High | Moderate |
| Math Difficulty | Moderate | Higher (word problems) |
| Time Pressure | Moderate | Higher |
| Question Navigation | Flexible | Locked |
| Calculator Access | Always available | Limited |
| Unique Question Types | Text completion, sentence equivalence | Data sufficiency, Data insights |
The landscape has shifted dramatically. Most top MBA programs now accept both GRE and GMAT with equal consideration.
However, some consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) historically inquired about GMAT scores specifically. This is becoming less common but worth considering if consulting is your goal.
If you're considering both MBA and MS programs, GRE offers more flexibility as it's accepted across disciplines.
Resources: ETS Official Guides, Magoosh, Manhattan Prep, Gregmat+
Resources: GMAT Official Guide, TTP (Target Test Prep), Manhattan Prep, GMATClub
Do MBA programs prefer GMAT over GRE?
Not anymore. Most top programs explicitly state they view both equally. However, some traditional programs and certain consulting firms may have historical preferences for GMAT. Check specific program policies.
Can I take both exams?
Yes, but it's generally not recommended. Focus your preparation on one exam for best results. Only consider both if your first exam score doesn't meet your target after multiple attempts.
How many times can I take each exam?
GRE: 5 times per year (21 days between attempts). GMAT: 5 times per year (16 days between attempts), 8 lifetime attempts. ScoreSelect on GRE lets you send only your best scores.
Which is easier for non-native English speakers?
GMAT may be slightly easier as it's less vocabulary-dependent. GRE requires learning many advanced English words. However, strong English skills help on both exams.
Can I switch from one exam to another mid-prep?
You can, but it's not ideal. Many concepts overlap, but each exam has unique question types requiring specific practice. Ideally, take practice tests for both before starting serious prep.
Which exam has a better at-home testing option?
Both offer reliable at-home testing. GRE at home is run by ETS and ProctorU. GMAT Online is managed by GMAC. Same content and scoring as test center versions. Technical requirements are similar.
Weeks 1-2: Foundations
Take diagnostic test. Learn exam format. Start vocabulary (50 words/day). Review fundamental math concepts. Time: 2-3 hours/day.
Weeks 3-4: Building Skills
Continue vocabulary. Master quantitative comparison strategies. Practice text completion and sentence equivalence. 3-4 hours/day.
Weeks 5-6: Advanced Practice
Reading comprehension strategies. Advanced quant problems. First full-length practice test. Analyze errors thoroughly.
Weeks 7-8: Intensive Practice
One practice test per week. Focus on weak areas. AWA practice. Speed improvement drills. 4-5 hours/day.
Weeks 9-10: Testing Phase
Two practice tests per week. Detailed error analysis. Vocabulary review. Time management refinement.
Weeks 11-12: Final Prep
Final practice tests. Light review of formulas and vocabulary. Rest and mental preparation. Test day logistics.
Weeks 1-2: Foundations
Take diagnostic test. Understand GMAT Focus format. Review fundamental math. Learn data sufficiency approach. 2-3 hours/day.
Weeks 3-4: Core Skills
Master data sufficiency patterns. Critical reasoning fundamentals. Mental math practice. Number properties. 3-4 hours/day.
Weeks 5-6: Advanced Concepts
Advanced CR: strengthen/weaken questions. Data Insights practice. Quant: word problems and rates. First full test.
Weeks 7-8: Integration
Integrate all sections. Weekly full-length tests. Multi-source reasoning and table analysis. Time management.
Weeks 9-10: Intensive Testing
Bi-weekly practice tests. Deep analysis of mistakes. Focus on consistently weak question types. Speed drills.
Weeks 11-12: Final Sprint
Final official practice tests. Review error log. Formula and concept review. Rest before exam day.
| Expense | GRE | GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Fee | $220 (~₹18,500) | $275-300 (~₹23,000-25,000) |
| Score Report (4 free) | $35/additional | $35/additional |
| Rescheduling | $50 | $55 |
| Score Cancellation | Free (at test) | Free (at test) |
| Enhanced Score Report | $25 | Included |
The GRE vs GMAT decision is important, but it shouldn't hold you back. Both are well-designed assessments accepted by thousands of programs worldwide. The best choice is the one where you can perform better.
Take practice tests for both, honestly evaluate your strengths, verify program acceptance, and commit to your choice. Then focus entirely on preparation and achieving your best possible score.
Remember: thousands of students successfully navigate this decision every year. The exam is just one component of your application—your essays, recommendations, and experiences matter equally. Choose, prepare, and conquer!
Choose your exam. Master it. Achieve your dream score! 🎓📚✨
Written by Sproutern Test Prep Team
Guidance from test prep experts, high scorers, and admissions consultants.
Regularly updated
