A comprehensive comparison of the GMAT and GRE for business school applicants. Learn which test matches your strengths and career goals.
GMAT vs GRE: The Key Differences
Both the GMAT and GRE are accepted by most business schools, but they test different skills and favor different strengths.
Test Structure Comparison
GMAT Focus Edition (2024):
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions, 45 minutes
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions, 45 minutes
- Data Insights: 20 questions, 45 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Score range: 205 to 805
GRE General Test:
- Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections, 27 questions each, 41 minutes per section
- Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections, 27 questions each, 47 minutes per section
- Analytical Writing: 1 essay, 30 minutes
- Total time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Score range: 260 to 340 (130 to 170 per section)
Which Test Should You Take?
Choose the GMAT if:
- You are applying exclusively to business schools
- You excel at data interpretation and integrated reasoning
- You prefer adaptive testing that adjusts to your performance
- You want a shorter test experience
Choose the GRE if:
- You are considering both business school and other graduate programs
- You have strong vocabulary skills
- You prefer a calculator for quant sections (GRE provides one)
- You want the option to skip and return to questions
Quantitative Section Differences
The GMAT quant section focuses more on logic and reasoning, while the GRE quant section tests broader mathematical concepts but at a less complex level. The GMAT does not allow a calculator; the GRE does.
Verbal Section Differences
The GMAT verbal section emphasizes grammar and sentence correction. The GRE verbal section focuses heavily on vocabulary and reading comprehension.
Business School Preferences
Most top MBA programs accept both tests equally. However, some consulting-focused programs slightly prefer the GMAT due to its data insights section.
Score Conversion
A GMAT score of 705 roughly equals a GRE score of 330. A GMAT score of 605 roughly equals a GRE score of 310.
Recommended Prep Courses
Check our GMAT course rankings and GRE course rankings for detailed reviews.
FAQ
Q: Do business schools prefer the GMAT over the GRE? A: Most schools treat them equally, though the GMAT remains more common for MBA applicants.
Q: Can I take both tests? A: Yes, and some applicants do to submit their best score.
Q: Which test is easier? A: It depends on your strengths. Take a practice test of each to see which suits you better.