GMAT vs GRE: Which Test is Right for You
Confused between GMAT vs GRE? Learn the key differences, MBA requirements, scoring patterns, difficulty level, and which test is better for your career path.
Ever get overwhelmed while choosing between the GMAT vs GRE tests? Though both exams open doors to graduate and MBA programs, the right choice depends on your career goals, test-taking style, and future plans. Here’s everything you need to know to make a smart decision.
Introduction
If you’re planning for grad school or business school, you’ve probably asked: GRE vs GMAT – which test should I take? While both are widely accepted, the tests differ in structure, scoring, and purpose. The GMAT is designed mainly for business schools and MBA admissions, while the GRE is more flexible and accepted for a wider range of graduate programs.
This guide will break down the key differences, scores, MBA program requirements, and test difficulty so you can confidently choose between the GMAT or GRE.
GRE vs. GMAT: Key Differences
The GRE and GMAT share similarities, but they’re built for different student goals. Below is a quick comparison to review GRE or GMAT at a glance.
| Factor | GMAT | GRE |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Mostly for business school and MBA admissions. It is accepted by 7,700+ programs worldwide. | Accepted for general graduate programs in arts, sciences, and business. Approximately 1,300+ business schools accept the GRE for MBA programs |
| Sections | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing. | Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing. |
| Total test time | 2 hr 15 minutes (three 45-minute sections). | 1 hr and 58 minutes for the shortened GRE introduced in 2023. |
| Score scale | Total score scale: 205-805 Section Scores: 🔸 Quantitative Reasoning → 6–51 🔸 Verbal Reasoning → 6–51 🔸 Integrated Reasoning → 1–8 🔸 Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) → 0–6 Note: IR and AWA are not included in the 205-805 total score. They are reported separately. The Total Score is based only on Quant + Verbal performance. | Total Score (Verbal + Quant combined):260–340 Section Scores: 🔸 Quantitative Reasoning → 130–170 (1-point increments) 🔸 Verbal Reasoning → 130–170 (1-point increments) 🔸 Analytical Writing (AWA) → 0–6 (in 0.5 increments) Note: Unlike the GMAT, the GRE has no Integrated Reasoning section. The Total Score only reflects Verbal + Quant, while AWA is reported separately. |
| Retakes | 🔸 After waiting for at least 16 days, you can appear up to 5 times in any rolling 12-month period and 8 times in your lifetime. 🔸 Online and test‑center are both available | 🔸Can appear once every 21 days, up to 5 times within any 12-month rolling period. 🔸Test‑center and at‑home options available. |
| Fees and payments | 🔸 $275 for test center exams 🔸 $300 for GMAT Online exams (as of 2025) You should check the official page of GMAT(GMAC) for current US pricing. | 🔸 $220 for the GRE general test 🔸 $150 for GRE subject tests Check the official page of GRE(ETS) for current US pricing. |
Pro Tip
If you’re unsure about sticking strictly to business school, the GRE might give more flexibility. But if your path is MBA-focused, the GMAT is often the stronger choice.
What Is The GMAT?
Now that we’ve discussed the differences, the question surrounds: what is the GMAT exactly?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam designed to evaluate skills needed for business and management education. Business schools use GMAT scores to assess analytical, quantitative, and critical reasoning skills.
- Who takes it? Students applying for MBA, Master’s in Accounting, or other business-related master’s programs.
- Why it matters? The GMAT has been closely tied to MBA success, which is why many schools weigh it heavily in admissions.
- Scoring: The total GMAT score ranges from 205 to 805 (new Focus Edition), and it is calculated only from the Quantitative and Verbal sections.
- 🔸 Quantitative Reasoning: 6-51
- 🔸 Verbal Reasoning: 6-51
- 🔸 Integrated Reasoning (IR): 1-8 (reported separately)
- 🔸 Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 0-6 (reported separately)
The IR and AWA scores do not count toward the total score.
Test takers can review as many questions as they want at the end of each section and edit up to three answers. The exam can be taken online or at a test center under GMAC’s security policies.
Students can retake after a 16‑day wait, up to five times in any rolling 12 months, with a lifetime cap of eight attempts, which supports score improvement if needed.
Since 2023, GMAC has launched the GMAT Focus Edition, a shorter version (just under 3 hours) that emphasizes real-world business skills.
GMAT vs GRE Scores for MBA Programs
If you’re targeting an MBA, you need to understand how schools view GMAT vs GRE scores for MBA programs.
- Average GMAT Scores: At top U.S. MBA programs like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton, the average GMAT score is around 730.
- Average GRE Scores: At the same schools, average GRE scores are around 163 (Verbal) and 163 (Quantitative).
Since preferences vary, review each target school’s testing policy and score ranges, then pick the exam that best highlights personal strengths.
While both tests are accepted, some schools admit that GMAT scores often correlate more strongly with MBA program performance. If you’re set on an MBA, the GMAT may carry slightly more weight.
GMAT vs GRE: Which is Easier?
Students often ask, GMAT vs GRE: Which is easier? The answer depends on your strengths.
- Math (Quantitative):
- 🔸 The GMAT’s quant is tougher, especially for students who aren’t strong in math.
- 🔸 GRE quant is more straightforward, but time management matters.
- Verbal:
- 🔸 The GRE verbal has a harder vocabulary, testing word usage, and reading comprehension.
- 🔸 GMAT verbal focuses more on grammar, logic, and critical reasoning.
- Test-taking style:
- 🔸 If you are good at logic and problem-solving, the GMAT may suit you.
- 🔸 If you are stronger in vocabulary and general academics, the GRE might feel easier.
Because many MBA programs accept both, students should try official practice to see which test feels more natural before committing to a full prep plan.
Should I take the GMAT or GRE?
The big question: Should I take the GMAT or GRE? Pick based on target programs, test policies, and the exam that best matches strengths, since both are widely accepted for an MBA.
Here’s a quick decision guide:
Take the GMAT if:
- 🔸 You are applying exclusively to business schools.
- 🔸 Your target MBA program emphasizes GMAT scores.
- 🔸 You are stronger in logic-based reasoning.
Take the GRE if:
- 🔸 You are still deciding between business school and other graduate programs.
- 🔸You prefer straightforward math and are comfortable with advanced vocabulary.
- 🔸 You want a slightly cheaper test option.
Pro Tip
Check your target schools’ websites. Some programs publish score averages by test, which can help guide your choice.
Final Thought: Choosing between the GRE or GMAT isn’t just about the easier test; it’s about aligning your exam choice with your career goals. If you’re MBA-bound, the GMAT remains the gold standard. But if you want flexibility, the GRE keeps more doors open.
FAQ’s
▶ Is GRE harder than GMAT?
Not necessarily. The GRE emphasizes advanced vocabulary, while the GMAT is more challenging in quantitative reasoning. Which test feels harder depends on your strengths. A quick diagnostic for each test is the best way to find a better‑fit exam.
▶ Which is cheaper, GRE or GMAT?
The GRE costs about $220, while the GMAT costs $275. So, the GRE is cheaper. But always verify the current amounts on the official fee pages before registering.
▶ Can the GRE be used for an MBA?
Yes! Most business schools now accept the GRE for MBA admissions, though the GMAT is still preferred at some top schools.
▶ Can I get into an MBA without GMAT?
Yes, many schools offer GMAT waivers or accept the GRE instead. Some even admit students without standardized test scores if they have strong work experience or academic records. If a program lists both tests as accepted, choose the option that better matches your skills and gives you the best results on practice exams.
▶ How long is the GRE?
The GRE General Test was shortened in 2023 and now takes about two hours to complete, reflecting the updated, more concise format.
