

The best thing you can do is familiarize yourself with the different formats and approaches of both exams so you can choose the one that plays to your strengths. It might be tempting to choose whichever test seems easiest, but in reality, both the GMAT and GRE are designed to be challenging. GRE, it can be helpful to take a practice exam for both tests to see which you feel more comfortable with.


In addition to researching and comparing the GMAT vs. The decision of whether to take the GMAT or GRE really depends on your academic goals and preferred testing style. You might consider taking one of the GRE Subject Tests if you have specialized knowledge and experience and you plan on applying to graduate-level programs in any of the following disciplines:Ĭheck the application requirements for the programs and schools you wish to apply to so you know your options. In addition to the GRE General Test, there are six types of GRE Subject Tests, each with their own question formats and structure. The GRE is also useful if you wish to leave your graduate school options open and aren’t completely set on a business or management program. Taking the GRE could be the right choice if you are applying for a program in a field such as the liberal arts, sciences, or humanities. Unless you are seeking a business or management degree, your target school will likely accept the GRE and not the GMAT. If you’re a prospective business or management student, you may have the choice to take either the GMAT or the GRE, but it is best to check the application instructions and find out if your target program indicates a preference for one or the other. This part of the test measures your ability to interpret different sources using a combination of qualitative and quantitative reasoning tactics to solve complex problems. This explains why a calculator is permitted for the GRE but not the GMAT.Īdditionally, the GMAT has a supplemental section dedicated to integrated reasoning.

In contrast, the GRE’s quantitative reasoning section is more of a traditional test of your mathematical knowledge and skills. However, the GMAT’s quantitative reasoning section tests your ability to use logic and reasoning to solve quantitative problems, as you might in a business setting. The GMAT and GRE have similar verbal reasoning and analytical writing components. Some graduate business schools will only take GMAT scores, while others will accept either GMAT or GRE test scores. Only institutions that offer graduate degrees in management and business are eligible to request GMAT test scores. While it’s often an application requirement, some schools consider it optional.Īccording to the GMAC, the GMAT is accepted by 2,300 institutions around the world. It’s accepted globally and by 3,700 institutions in the U.S. The GRE is the most widely used standardized test for graduate school applicants. Specialized master’s degrees in business.Master of Business Administration (MBA).Which schools accept GMAT and GRE test scores?Īccording to the ETS, the GRE General Test is typically accepted by graduate schools for a wide range of programs: While a test score is not the only factor under consideration, it will certainly help inform admissions decisions. Percentile-based scores also illustrate where applicants are in relation to their peers. Test results allow admissions counselors to compare applicants’ performance and assess academic proficiency levels equally across the board. Admissions departments use these standardized test results along with other application materials, including: While both are exams typically used for graduate school admission, each has its own purpose and structure.Ī GMAT or GRE score is just one part of a well-rounded graduate school application. Quantitative reasoning evaluates your ability to work with quantitative data and solve problems using foundational math skills and a calculator.Verbal reasoning assesses your ability to analyze and interpret texts, derive meaning, and draw conclusions from written works, and focuses largely on vocabulary.Analytical writing measures your ability to interpret source material and make logical arguments using standard written English.The GRE General Test is composed of three sections, each of which measures different skills and abilities: The Graduate Record Examinations, which include the GRE General Test and GRE Subject Tests, are produced by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), an organization that develops and administers numerous assessments and aptitude tests.
