GRE vs. GMAT – Which Exam Should You Take to Study Abroad?
Planning to pursue your graduate studies abroad? One of the biggest steps in your journey is choosing the right entrance exam. Two of the most common tests for graduate programs are the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). While both are widely accepted by international institutions, they cater to different academic goals and measure different skill sets.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the GRE and GMAT—from syllabus and scoring to cost and suitability—so you can decide which test aligns best with your academic and career aspirations.
GRE vs. GMAT at a Glance
| Feature | GRE | GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | General graduate programs (e.g., engineering, social sciences, law, business) | Business schools (e.g., MBA, MIM) |
| Test Duration | 3 hours 45 minutes (plus 10-minute break) | 3 hours 7 minutes (plus two 8-minute breaks) |
| Sections | Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing | Verbal, Quantitative, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing |
| Scoring Scale | 260–340 (Verbal + Quantitative) | 200–800 (overall) |
| Test Fee | $227 (approx. ₹18,800) | $275 (approx. ₹22,800) |
| Accepted By | Thousands of graduate programs across disciplines | Over 2,300 business schools worldwide |
GRE vs. GMAT Syllabus Breakdown
While both exams assess verbal, quantitative, and writing skills, they differ in emphasis:
GRE Exam Focus:
- Verbal Reasoning: Heavy focus on vocabulary and reading comprehension.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Emphasizes data interpretation and math fundamentals.
- Analytical Writing: Two essays—Analyze an Issue and Analyze an Argument.
GMAT Exam Focus:
- Quantitative Section: More challenging, with a strong focus on problem-solving and data sufficiency.
- Verbal Section: Emphasis on grammar, critical reasoning, and reading comprehension.
- Integrated Reasoning: Tests your ability to evaluate data from multiple sources (exclusive to GMAT).
- Analytical Writing: One essay—Analysis of an Argument.
Tip: Choose GRE if you’re stronger in vocabulary and writing. Opt for GMAT if you excel in quantitative reasoning and business logic.
Which Exam Is Easier: GRE or GMAT?
It depends on your strengths:
- GRE is often seen as easier for those with strong verbal skills and less confidence in math.
- GMAT may feel more manageable for those comfortable with numbers and logical reasoning.
Ultimately, neither test is “easier”—they’re just different. Consider taking practice tests for both to see which suits your skill set better.
GRE vs. GMAT for PhD Programs
Planning a PhD? Here’s a general rule:
| If applying for… | Recommended Test |
|---|---|
| Engineering, Sciences, Humanities | GRE |
| Business/Management PhD | GMAT (preferred) or GRE (accepted by many) |
Many universities now accept both GRE and GMAT for PhD-level business programs, so check with your target school.
GRE and GMAT Score Comparison
Here’s a quick look at how scoring differs between the two exams:
| Section | GRE Score Range | GMAT Score Range |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 0–6 | 0–6 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 130–170 | 6–51 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 130–170 | 6–51 |
| Integrated Reasoning | – | 1–8 |
| Total Score | 260–340 | 200–800 |
GRE scores are reported in 1-point increments, while GMAT uses 10-point increments for the overall score.
Cost of GRE vs. GMAT
| Exam | Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| GRE | $227 | 4 free score reports |
| GMAT | $275 | 5 free score reports |
Note: Additional fees may apply for rescheduling, score reporting, or sending additional reports.
Which Test Should You Take?
Choose the GRE if:
- You’re applying to a variety of graduate programs (not just business).
- You’re confident in vocabulary and analytical writing.
- Your target business schools accept both GRE and GMAT.
Choose the GMAT if:
- You’re applying specifically to business schools or MBA programs.
- You’re strong in quantitative problem-solving and data analysis.
- Your preferred universities specifically require or recommend the GMAT.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I take both GRE and GMAT?
Yes, but it’s usually unnecessary unless you’re applying to a mix of programs with different requirements.
Q: How long are GRE and GMAT scores valid?
Both scores are valid for 5 years.
Q: Are online versions available?
Yes. Both exams offer at-home online testing options with secure proctoring.
Q: Is one test more widely accepted than the other?
GRE is more versatile across disciplines. GMAT is more specific to business schools but accepted globally