GRE / GMAT

Standardized entrance tests are so important in the educational system that they even factor in as the main reasons for students to move abroad for their education, in particular, to the US, Canada, UK, Europe and Australia. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) are the most prominent among these exams and they are the most widely taken tests. Besides that, these tests give the universities involved the opportunity to rank the applicant's graduate potential on the basis of their academic, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

On the other hand, it is indeed great to be able to pick the most appropriate exam for one's overseas studies just by checking the differences of GRE and GMAT, their formats, requirements, scoring and university acceptance.

What is GRE?

GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test recognized globally, presents a measuring tool for admissions to various master's programs such as MS, MSc and MBA, along with some Ph.D. programs in a good number of universities. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) is responsible for the test administration.

GRE tests -

• Analytical thinking
• Quantitative reasoning
• Verbal reasoning

The GRE test is one of the most preferred tests by students applying for the programs in engineering, science, technology, arts and business.

What is GMAT?

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a sole purpose test i.e. student admission only to MBA and other management programs. The GMAT is administered by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council).

The GMAT covers -

• Analytical writing
• Integrated reasoning
• Quantitative ability
• Verbal reasoning

Generally, the top business schools all over the world prefer or require the GMAT scores.

GRE vs GMAT - Main Differences

Although both examinations measure higher-level skills, their emphasis differs -

• GRE is valid for a whole range of master’s programs including non-business areas
• GMAT is predominantly for MBA and management courses
• GRE is seen as more tolerant in terms of university acceptance
• GMAT is more of a business and data interpretation test

Your decision to take GRE or GMAT is mainly determined by your studies and career aspirations.

GRE Examination Format

The GRE General Test is composed of -

• Verbal Reasoning – Measures the ability to understand and use the vocabulary.
• Quantitative Reasoning – Measures the skills to do math and solve problems.
• Analytical Writing – Measures the ability to think critically and write.

The exam is conducted on a computer and can be done either in authorized test centers or at home (if available).

GMAT Examination Format

The GMAT test has four major sections -

• Analytical Writing (AWA)
• Integrated Reasoning (IR)
• Quantitative Section
• Verbal Section

GMAT employs a computer-adaptive format, which means that the level of difficulty varies according to your performance.

Eligibility for GRE / GMAT

Officially, there are no limitations regarding age or education for both GRE and GMAT. Nevertheless -

• Applying for master's or PhD programs is the usual reason why students choose taking GRE
• To getting an MBA or business degree is what GMAT students are aiming for
• An up-to-date passport is a necessity to sit the test

Different universities might have their own eligibility requirements.

GRE / GMAT Scores and Validity

• Validity of GRE score - 5 years
• Validity of GMAT score - 5 years

Better scores give more chances of admissions, scholarships and assistantships.

GRE / GMAT Acceptance

Scores of GRE and GMAT are received by -

• Universities in the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia and other regions
• Thousand of universities and business schools globally

Some of the universities consider GRE or GMAT, mainly for the MBA program.

Which Exam Should You Choose?

Choose GRE if -

• You are applying for MS, MSc, engineering, or blended programs
• You prefer to have flexibility among several courses

Choose GMAT if -

• You are aiming at the very best MBA or business schools
• You are sure of your quantitative and analytical reasoning skills

Right support makes the selection of the exam that fits your profile perfectly easy.

When Should You Take GRE / GMAT?

The exam is supposed to be taken -

• 12 - 18 months prior to the planned intake
• Before application deadlines of the universities
• With sufficient time to retake if necessary

How to Prepare for GRE / GMAT?

Preparation that works best consists of -

• Knowing the test structure thoroughly
• Taking practice tests frequently
• Learning to manage your time properly
• Working on areas where you are weak
• Getting the authorized study materials

Regular preparation over a duration of 2 - 4 months normally leads to great results.

Conclusion

GRE and GMAT are considered as the best i.e. the most powerful in the world tools to get access to the top universities and business schools. Thoroughly selecting the right test, preparing with a strong strategy, and presenting quality scores can remarkably increase your chances of getting admitted, receiving scholarships, and succeeding in your career overseas.

Visafornation helps students in all aspects of their GRE / GMAT journey — from choosing the exam and guiding the preparation to shortlisting universities and providing visa assistance — making sure that the whole process of studying abroad is smooth, well-organized and successful.