GMAT vs GRE: Which Should You Take?

If you're applying to graduate business school, you're likely considering the GMAT and the GRE. Both are accepted by many MBA programs, but choosing the right exam can make a difference in your application strength. This guide will help you compare the GMAT and GRE across structure, difficulty, scoring, and how business schools view them.

Overview: GMAT and GRE in Business School Admissions

Historically, the GMAT was the standard exam for MBA admissions. However, in recent years, the GRE has gained traction and is now accepted at most major business schools, including Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, and others. This flexibility allows applicants to choose the exam that better showcases their strengths.

But while both are accepted, they are not identical. Each test has different structures, content areas, scoring systems, and even appeal to different types of thinkers. Understanding these differences is key to deciding which test gives you the best edge.

Test Structure Comparison

Here’s a breakdown of the basic structure of each exam:

Section GMAT GRE
Analytical Writing 1 essay – 30 mins 2 essays – 60 mins total
Verbal Reasoning 36 questions – 65 mins 40 questions – 60 mins
Quantitative Reasoning 31 questions – 62 mins 40 questions – 70 mins
Integrated Reasoning 12 questions – 30 mins Not included
Experimental Section None Yes – unscored/random
Total Duration ~3 hours ~3 hours 45 mins

Quantitative Comparison

The Quantitative sections on both tests assess math skills but differ in emphasis and difficulty:

  • GMAT: Tends to be more challenging for test takers, especially in Data Sufficiency, which is unique to the GMAT and requires logical reasoning more than computation.
  • GRE: Covers a broader range of math topics, but the questions are generally less complex. Calculators are allowed, which helps with speed.

If you have a strong math background or enjoy logic puzzles, the GMAT might better showcase your skills. If you’re less confident with math or prefer using a calculator, the GRE might be the better option.

Verbal Comparison

The Verbal sections vary significantly:

  • GMAT: Emphasizes grammar, sentence correction, and critical reasoning. Strong logical thinking is rewarded.
  • GRE: Focuses more on vocabulary, with a heavier emphasis on text completion and sentence equivalence.

If you have a strong vocabulary and read extensively, the GRE may feel more intuitive. If you are more analytical and grammar-oriented, the GMAT may suit you better.

Scoring Differences

Each test has a unique scoring scale:

  • GMAT: Scores range from 200 to 800, based on Verbal and Quant. IR and AWA are scored separately.
  • GRE: Verbal and Quant are scored 130–170 each, for a total of 260–340. AWA is scored 0–6.

Business schools often convert GRE scores to GMAT equivalents using ETS’s conversion tool. However, some schools may still view GMAT scores as slightly more reliable for MBA performance prediction.

Test Style and Strategy

These two tests reward different skill sets:

  • GMAT: Better for strategic thinkers who like logic puzzles and are strong in grammar and reasoning.
  • GRE: Better for creative thinkers, those with strong vocabularies, and those applying to dual-degree programs (MBA/MPA, MBA/JD, etc.).

The GMAT’s adaptive-by-question format increases or decreases difficulty with each response, while the GRE adapts by section. This means pacing and strategy differ significantly between the two exams.

Cost and Availability

Both exams cost around $200–$275 depending on location and test center:

  • GMAT: ~$275
  • GRE: ~$220

Both are available online or at test centers worldwide, with flexible scheduling. GRE generally offers slightly more frequent testing options and is often considered more accessible globally.

Which Do Business Schools Prefer?

Most MBA programs officially accept both exams, and many claim no preference. However, there are some nuances:

  • Some schools use the GMAT to assess quantitative readiness, especially for applicants with non-technical backgrounds.
  • A high GMAT score may signal strong commitment to business school and may strengthen your application at competitive programs.
  • If you're applying only to MBA programs, the GMAT may provide a slight advantage.
  • If you're applying to multiple types of graduate programs or aren’t confident in Quant, the GRE might be a better fit.

Retaking and Score Reporting

Both exams allow retakes:

  • GMAT: 5 times per year, 16 days between tests
  • GRE: 5 times per year, 21 days between tests

GRE offers ScoreSelect, which lets you choose which scores to send to schools. GMAT now allows score selection before submission as well, but GRE has more flexibility in this area historically.

Which Test Is Easier?

This depends entirely on your strengths:

  • Take the GMAT if: You’re strong in logic and grammar, targeting top MBA programs, or have strong analytical skills.
  • Take the GRE if: You prefer vocabulary-based verbal, are more comfortable with a calculator, or want dual-degree flexibility.

How to Decide

Here are a few steps to help you choose the right test:

  1. Research: Check if your target MBA programs have a preference.
  2. Take a practice test: Try both exams to see which one feels more natural.
  3. Consider your goals: If you’re focused solely on business school, GMAT may be more strategic.
  4. Evaluate your strengths: Are you better at vocabulary or logic? Geometry or grammar?

Conclusion

Both the GMAT and GRE are valid, accepted pathways to top MBA programs. The best test for you is the one that highlights your strengths and aligns with your long-term goals. Take a practice test for each, review your score, and choose the exam that gives you the highest competitive edge. Whichever you choose, thorough preparation is key.