The main difference between GRE and GMAT is that the GRE test is used for admission in numerous graduate programs, while the GMAT test is used as a contributing factor for admission into business schools. GRE and GMAT differ in six major ways, which are: the scoring system, test structure, test duration, fees, and numbers of business schools that accept them.
You’re probably wondering which test you should consider? Well, most people would recommend the GRE test if you are not sure about what kind of graduate program you want to enrol in, and consider the GMAT test if you only want to apply to business school.
That is almost true, but you should know that choosing between the GRE and GMAT test takes a little more effort. One of the best ways to do it is to consider the contexts of both tests, then decide for yourself. An increasing number of students are using the GRE testing for admission into business schools, and those business schools are accepting GRE for their management programs.
However, there isn’t much information available regarding the required GRE scores for leading business schools. Hence, business schools use a GRE to GMAT conversion tool to compare the performance of every applicant. So, to help you choose the right test for your need, here, you will find the key differences between the GRE and GMAT test.
Top Key Differences Between The GRE And GMAT
This should go without saying to a large extent that individuals who want to enrol in MBA take the GMAT, and if you are still not sure about which master degree you want to enrol in, take the GRE. However, many business schools have begun to accept both GRE and GMAT. So, how will you decide which one to choose?
Here’s a list of six key differences between GRE and GMAT.
-
Scoring System
In GRE, quantitative and verbal scores range between 130 to 170 with 1-point increments. Whereas the overall composition of GMAT, its score ranges between 200 to 800 with 10-point increments.
-
Test Structure
The GRE includes an analytical writing section of 60-minute containing two essays for 30-minutes each. Furthermore, there are two verbal reasoning sections for 30-minute each and two quantitative reasoning sections of 35-minutes each. There will be an experimental section of 30-35 minutes, which can be either verbal or math.
However, the GMAT test includes an analytical writing section containing one essay along with an integrated reasoning section of 30-minutes each respectively. There is also a verbal section for 65-minutes and a quantitative section of 62-minutes.
-
Test Design
The GRE section exam is a computer-adaptive test. But in some areas, which are not capable of computer-delivered testing, the paper version of the test is offered. However, the GMAT exam is computer-adaptive testing.
-
Test Duration
In the GRE test, individuals are provided with 3.75 hours on computers and 3.5 hours on paper. Whereas, in the GMAT test, individuals are offered 3.5 hours only for completing the examination.
-
Frequency Of Business Schools Using Them
According to recent statistics, over 7000 programs offered at 2200 business schools require individuals to have GMAT scores while enrolling into desired programs. On the other hand, there are growing numbers of business schools that are accepting GRE scores for evaluating the performance of the applicants. Most business schools use a GRE to GMAT conversion tool to determine the GMAT score of the applicants and compare their performance with others.
-
Test Fees
The GRE testing fees cost approximately $205, while the GMAT test costs $250. You should know that the scores of both tests are valid for up to 5 years.
GRE Or GMAT: Which One Is Easier?
Generally, the GMAT test is suitable for those individuals who have strong analytical and quantitative skills, who are also proficient in interpreting the data presented in tables, text, and charts to solve complicated problems. Whereas the math section of the GRE test is more straightforward and includes a calculator for solving all quantitative problems.
Test-takers who have strong vocabularies may consider the GRE, while strong editors may excel in the verbal section of the GMAT. Moreover, both tests are integrated with question type exams such as data sufficiency in the GMAT and quantitative comparison in the GRE.
So, individuals have to do some preparation to get used to it. The best way to choose whether the GRE or GMAT is better for your abilities is to start taking practise tests for both exams. You should know that getting into a business school is highly competitive, and you probably don’t want to take the entire GRE or GMAT exam without seeing the actual format. So, it would be better for you to practice, practice, and practice until you find out which computer-adaptive diagnostic test you are good at.
