GMAT vs GRE : Which One Should You Take for Grad School?
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If you're staring down the decision between the GMAT and the GRE, you're not alone—and you're definitely not wrong to pause here. These tests are more than just hurdles; they influence where you can apply, how you're assessed, and in some cases, how seriously your application is taken.
So how do you choose?
This guide breaks it all down. You'll walk away knowing exactly how each test works, which one suits your strengths, and how to pick the right one for your graduate school goals.
Difference Between GMAT vs GRE
Let’s start with a side-by-side look at what sets these two apart:
Category | GRE | GMAT |
Best For | MBA, MS, PhD and other grad programmes | Primarily for MBA and business school |
Sections | Verbal, Quant, Analytical Writing | Verbal, Quant, Integrated Reasoning, Writing |
Score Range | 260–340 (130–170 per section) + 0–6 (AWA) | 200–800 (overall) + separate AWA and IR scores |
Test Length | Around 1 hour 58 minutes | Around 3 hours 30 minutes |
Calculator | Yes, for Quant | Only for Integrated Reasoning section |
Cost | $205 (may vary) | $250 (may vary) |
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Understanding the Key Sections of the GRE and GMAT
Both the GRE and GMAT are designed to assess a wide range of skills, but their test sections differ significantly in format and focus. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the major sections in each test, highlighting their structure, question types, and what they aim to measure. Use this guide to identify which test aligns better with your strengths and study goals.
Category | GRE | GMAT | Difference |
Quant | ●Includes standard math problems, comparisons, and fill-in-the-blank numeric answers. ●You can use a basic calculator, which helps for longer calculations. | ●Includes problem-solving questions and data sufficiency problems (which test whether you have enough info, not just whether you can solve the problem). ●No calculator allowed, so expect to rely on mental maths and reasoning. |
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Verbal | ●Sentence Equivalence & Text Completion – Think: choose the best word(s) to complete complex sentences. ● Reading Comprehension – Tests how well you understand and analyse what you read. | ●Sentence Correction – Grammar, clarity, and sentence structure. ●Critical Reasoning – Can you evaluate an argument? ●Reading Comprehension – Similar to GRE, but often business-focused passages. | -GRE verbal rewards a strong vocabulary and comfort with complex language. -GMAT verbal is all about logic, structure, and clarity—especially in a business context |
Writing Section | ●GRE gives you two essays: Analyse an Issue and Analyse an Argument. | ●GMAT has one: Analyse an Argument. | -Scores range from 0 to 6 on both, but they’re often not a major decision-maker for admissions. |
Integrated Reasoning in the GMAT: What Makes It Challenging?
Only found on the GMAT, Integrated Reasoning (IR) is a newer section that tests your ability to evaluate data from charts, tables, and graphs. If you’re headed to business school, this can be a valuable skill to show off.
GRE doesn’t have a direct equivalent
GRE vs GMAT Exams : Which test to take to study For MBA IN 2025?
Pro tip: Some business schools accept both—but may still favour the GMAT when comparing two otherwise equal applicants.
Also Explore : Top 6 Business Schools For MBA in Europe
How Diagnostic Tests Can Help You Choose Between the GRE and GMAT?
Still not sure? Take a diagnostic test for each exam. They’re free, quick to take, and offer real insight into which one plays to your strengths.
Focus On
Which format feels more natural?
Where do you score higher with less effort?
Which test aligns with your programmes of interest?
GMAT vs GRE Study Tips
No matter which test you choose, success comes down to strategy and consistency. Here’s how to prep smart:
1. Give Yourself Time
You’ll likely need 8–12 weeks of study time. Block out regular slots in your schedule and treat them like real appointments.
2. Use Official Resources
For GMAT: The GMAT Official Guide, GMATPrep software, Manhattan Prep.
For GRE: ETS’s Official GRE Guide, Magoosh, and vocabulary tools like Quizlet.
Weak in maths? Prioritise GMAT Data Sufficiency or GRE Quant Comparisons.
Weak in verbal? Work on vocabulary (GRE) or sentence correction (GMAT).
3. Drill Your Weak Spots
Weak in maths? Prioritise GMAT Data Sufficiency or GRE Quant Comparisons.
Weak in verbal? Work on vocabulary (GRE) or sentence correction (GMAT).
4. Simulate the Real Test
Take full-length practice exams. Don’t skip breaks. Simulate the full time to build stamina and improve time management.
Final Take: Which One Should You Take in 2025?
Here’s the short version:
Choose the GMAT if you're targeting top MBA programmes and are confident in logic-heavy reasoning and data interpretation.
Choose the GRE if you want options beyond business school or feel stronger with vocab and open-ended writing.
Check your target programmes: Some accept both. A few may prefer one. Don’t leave that to chance—go directly to their admissions site or contact them to find out.
Conclusion
Deciding between the GMAT and GRE is a critical step in your grad school application process. While both tests assess your analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills, each caters to a slightly different academic path. If you’re laser-focused on business school and want to showcase your decision-making and analytical abilities, the GMAT is your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re keeping your options open for a variety of graduate programmes or have a stronger command of vocabulary, the GRE might be the more versatile choice. Ultimately, the right test for you depends on your strengths, goals, and the requirements of your target schools. Take practice tests, evaluate your comfort level with each format, and remember that your test score is just one piece of your overall application. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to ace whichever path you choose.
