If you’re planning to pursue a graduate degree, you’ve likely encountered two primary standardized tests: the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Understanding the differences between these exams is crucial in determining which aligns best with your academic and career goals.
Purpose and Acceptance
- GRE: This exam is accepted by several graduate programs that include business and law schools. Its flexibility makes it easy for applicants to choose from different options across various disciplines.
- GMAT: This exam is particularly prepared to let students pursue admission to business schools and MBA programs. It’s tailored to assess skills deemed essential for success in business and management studies.
If you’re unsure which test is best for you, researching GMAT vs GRE difficulty can help you make an informed decision.
Test Structure and Content
GRE Structure:
- Analytical Writing: It consists of one section where you are expected to analyze a certain issue by applying your knowledge and skills. (30 minutes).
- Verbal Reasoning: It includes two sections. Section 1 has 12 questions, for which you get 18 minutes, and Section 2 has 15 questions, for which you get 23 minutes.
- Quantitative Reasoning: It includes two sections; Section 1: 12 questions (21 minutes), Section 2: 15 questions (26 minutes).
- Total Testing Time: The total time allotted comes to an estimate of 1 hour and 58 minutes.
GMAT Structure:
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions (45 minutes).
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions (45 minutes).
- Data Insights: 20 questions (45 minutes).
- Total Testing Time: You have to attempt a paper of 2 hours and 15 minutes, with one optional 10-minute break.
Practising with a GMAT practice exam will help you get a better understanding about the format of the exam and how you can improve yourself to get a better score in your exam.
Scoring
- GRE: The total scores from the Verbal and Quantitative sections can span between 260 to 340. But, it would not include the Analytical section, which is graded distinctly between 0 to 6.
- GMAT: The total score can fall between 205 to 805, that could be attained from Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights sections.
GMAT vs GRE: Which One is Easier?
Identifying which is easier GRE or GMAT depends on your personal strengths:
- Quantitative Section: The GMAT’s quantitative section is generally considered more challenging, focusing heavily on data interpretation and logical reasoning. The GRE’s quantitative section includes more geometry questions where you will have an option to use a calculator for saving time.
- Verbal Section: The GRE emphasizes complex vocabulary, making its verbal section more challenging for some test-takers. Grammar and logical reasoning hold more significance in GMAT.
Final Decision: GRE or GMAT?
Choose the GRE if:
- You’re applying for multiple graduate programs and not just the business school.
- You want to use a calculator to save time and efforts during the quantitative section
Choose the GMAT if:
- You’re dedicated to solely pursuing an MBA or a business-related graduate degree.
- You want to display skills necessary for business to business schools and highlight your commitment to them.
Pro Tip: Some business schools accept GRE scores for MBA admissions, but the GMAT remains the preferred test for many top-tier programs.
Selecting between the GRE and GMAT depends on your specific academic aspirations and strengths. You must separately research about the admission requirements of your preferred programs and think about taking a GMAT practice exam or a GRE practice test to know what suits better with your skills and goals.
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