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THE USA: Applying to University - Must read

GRE or GMAT: an international student guide

Understanding the differences between the GRE and GMAT tests for postgraduate courses is less complicated than it may seem. Learn all about them here, and work out which is right for you.

Graphic of a man sat at a desk, taking an online test on a computer. He has a book and a small potted plant beside him.

GRE or GMAT? If you’re planning postgraduate study in the USA, that may be an important question. These are two of the most commonly required tests in grad school admissions, and particularly at business schools. When the institution to which you are applying has a preference for the one you take, the choice is simple – but if they accept both, which should you choose? Read on for our advice.

 

What are the differences between the GRE and GMAT?

Although both tests are commonly associated with applications for MBA programmes in the USA, the GRE and GMAT are not equivalent.

 

The GMAT – or Graduate Management Admission Test – was established as a way of assessing applicants to business schools in the USA, and that remains its central purpose. By comparison, the GRE is not as business-centric, and can be used for entry onto postgraduate courses across a wider range of fields. There are even GRE Subject Tests for maths, physics and psychology.

 

For a more detailed look at what makes each test distinct, read our individual guides to the GRE and the GMAT.

 

What are the differences in test structure?

Each test has different content and a different structure. Here is a simple overview of both:

 

GRE test structure

Exam section Number of questions Estimated time
Analytical Writing 1 30 minutes
Verbal Reasoning 27 (in two sections) 41 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning 27 (in two sections) 47 minutes
Total 55 118 minutes

 

GMAT test structure

Exam section Number of questions Estimated time
Quantitative Reasoning 31 62 minutes
Verbal Reasoning 36 65 minutes
Integrated Reasoning 12 30 minutes
Analytical Writing Assessment 1 30 minutes
Total 80 187 minutes

 

While there is a clear overlap between the abilities assessed by both tests, there are also clear differences. For instance, the GMAT includes an Integrated Reasoning section that is not found in the GRE. This tests your ability to analyse and interpret data, using a mix of tables and graphics.

 

Additionally, it is notable that the GRE test takes over an hour less to complete than the GMAT. This is the result of changes that were made to make it considerably shorter, having previously been the longer of the two.

 

However, registrations can now also be made for a shorter version of the GMAT. The GMAT Focus Edition is not as quick as the GRE, but it is quicker than its own standard version. Here is how it breaks down:

 

GMAT Focus Edition test structure

Exam section Number of questions Estimated time
Quantitative Reasoning 21 45 minutes
Verbal Reasoning 23 45 minutes
Data Insights 20 45 minutes
Total 64 135 minutes

 

With the removal of the Analytical Writing essay section, and a reduction in the number of questions overall, the GMAT can now be less time-consuming. In addition to this, the Focus Edition introduces a section with the title Data Insights. In practice, this is similar to the Integrated Reasoning section of the traditional GMAT.

 

Which is most popular?

Around 342,000 students take the GRE each year, compared with 86,000 who take the GMAT in the same period. However, it is important to note that this may not strictly indicate its greater popularity. The reasons why people take one test rather than the other vary. For example, their decision may depend on the requirements of the university or course to which they are applying.

 

Which costs more?

In most parts of the world, taking the GRE costs USD 220. There are two exceptions to this: China, where the fee is USD 231, and India, where it is USD 272. Additionally, extra costs apply if you wish to reschedule your test or receive enhanced feedback on your attempt. A fee reduction programme is also in place, presenting certain test takers with a charge of only USD 100.

 

Fees for the GMAT vary more widely. In most parts of the world, though, you can expect to pay between USD 250 and USD 275 to take the test at an authorised test centre, and between USD 275 and USD 300 to take it remotely. In addition, there are charges for services such as cancellations and enhanced score reports. For a clear summary of the cost in your country, you can check the official GMAT website.

 

Where can you take each test?

Both the GMAT and the GRE can be taken on computers at official test centres around the world, or remotely. There are over 1,000 GRE centres in more than 160 countries, while there are around 600 GMAT centres in around 110 countries. Neither test can be taken on paper, although the GRE Subject Tests can in September, October and April.

 

Where are the tests accepted?

GRE and GMAT test scores are widely accepted by universities around the world for postgraduate courses, and particularly in the USA.

 

The key thing to remember is that acceptance varies on a course-by-course basis. Even within a single university, one course may require GMAT, while another may require GRE. In some cases, providing a score may only be recommended to strengthen your application. In those instances, neither the GRE or GMAT are compulsory.

 

Ultimately, your choice between the GRE and GMAT should be informed by the requirements of the courses to which you are applying. Always check these details before making plans.

 

Is either test necessary to study an MBA?

No. As explained above, the requirements for courses in all countries vary.

 

Although a GRE or GMAT score is required for a large number of business courses, you will find exceptions. Some universities have their own tests by which to judge applicants, while others choose to assess them in different ways.

 

In those cases, significant business experience or evidence of strong abilities in the areas that the GRE and GMAT test can be enough for you to be accepted. Nevertheless, a good score on either will always boost your chances.

 

Can GRE scores be converted to GMAT?

No. Although some may suggest that this is possible, the differences between the two tests mean it is not. The test score that you receive is the only one you can use to apply for courses, so you should simply make sure that it is accepted on the ones you choose.

 

Need more information about the tests you can take to study in America? Whether or not you take the GRE or GMAT, our guide to US admissions tests can help.

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