GMAT vs GRE: What test to choose in 2025?

Most business schools across the world accept both GMAT and GRE test scores as part of their admissions requirements. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are the standardized tests used for admissions to universities abroad for graduate business programs, respectively. With over 1,200 MBA programs now accepting either GMAT or GRE scores, you have more options than ever. Before deciding which test to take, research the business schools you are interested in to see if they accept GRE scores in place of GMAT scores or vice-versa. Continue reading this article as we will take you through the major difference between GMAT and GRE on various aspects like eligibility, scoring patterns, syllabus, etc. thereby helping you decide which one is best for you to study abroad.

Key Differences Between GMAT and GRE

The main difference between the GMAT and GRE is that the GMAT is generally used for business school admissions, whereas the GRE is accepted for a wide range of graduate programs, including business and law schools. Moreover, both the exams have different formats, different questions, testing policies, and score reporting options. Below table is a quick comparison of GRE vs GMAT:

Key Differences	GMAT	GRE
Conducting Body	Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)	Educational Testing Service (ETS)
Test Location	Online or at a Testing Center	Online or at a Testing Center
Number of sections	3	5
Test Structure	Quantitative Section: 21 Questions, 45 minutes Verbal Section: 23 questions, 45 minutes Data Insights Section: 20 questions, 45 minutes	Analytical Writing Section: 1 essay, 30 minutes Verbal Reasoning Section 1: 18 minutes, 12 questions Verbal Reasoning Section 2: 23 minutes, 15 questions  Quantitative Reasoning Section 1: 21 minutes, 12 questions Quantitative Reasoning Section 2: 26 minutes, 15 questions
Score Range	Total score of 205 - 805 in 10-point increment, 60-90 scaled score for each section	Verbal and Quantitative sections: Scored from 130 to 170 Measured in one-point increments Analytical Writing section: Scored from 0 to 6 Measured in half-point increments
Score Validity	5 years	5 years
Test Cost	At Test Center- $275 (INR 22,996) Online - $300 (INR 25,086)	GRE general Test - $270 (INR 22,500)
Test Duration	2 hours, 15 minutes with one optional 10-minute break	1 hour, 58 minutes
Accepted by	More than 7,000 programs are offered by over 2,300 schools at 2,100 universities in 82 countries.	Accepted by 1,300+ business schools globally; fewer than GMAT.
Test dates	Available year-round	Available year-round
Retakes	Allowed every 16 days, up to a maximum of 5 attempts within a 12-month period and 8 attempts over one's lifetime.	Allowed every 21 days, with a maximum of 5 attempts allowed in a year (a continuous rolling 12-month period starting from the first test).

Should you opt for the GMAT or GRE?

If you plan to apply to business school graduate programs, the GMAT is traditionally the preferred exam, as it specifically assesses skills relevant to business studies. However, many schools now accept the GRE as well, providing more flexibility. The GMAT tends to have more challenging math focused on business-oriented problem solving, whereas the GRE math is more straightforward. Ultimately, the choice depends on your target programs and academic strengths - the GMAT showcases quantitative abilities important for business, while the GRE keeps your options open across a wider range of graduate disciplines.

GMAT Exam

The GMAT, a standardized test, is taken by those aspiring to enroll in business schools. It's recommended for students interested in pursuing an MBA, Master of Finance, Master of Accountancy, or any management-related program. Accepted by over 2,400 universities offering more than 7,700 programs worldwide, the GMAT is a computer-adaptive test where question difficulty adjusts based on previous answers. In India, over 90 management schools accept GMAT scores. One of its benefits is the flexibility it offers; test-takers can sit for the exam every 16 days and up to five times a year within a 12-month period, with a maximum of 8 attempts in a lifetime.

GMAT Accepting Universities

For those considering the GMAT for their graduate business education, here's a list of universities worldwide that accept GMAT scores:

• Harvard Business School
• Stanford Graduate School of Business
• Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
• INSEAD
• London Business School
• MIT Sloan School of Management
• Chicago Booth School of Business
• Columbia Business School

GRE Exam

The GRE exam is taken by students seeking admission to graduate schools in over 90 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, and others. It's a requirement for those applying to pursue Master of Science (MS), MBA, or PhD programs. The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a computer based test that assesses skills crucial for success in graduate studies.

GRE Accepting Universities

Previously, MBA aspirants were limited to taking the GMAT for admission, but now, even prestigious business schools accept GRE scores. Below is a list of top-ranked universities worldwide that welcome GRE scores for admission.

• Duke University
• Yale University
• New York University (NYU)
• Stanford University
• Harvard University
• University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
• Columbia University
• University of Chicago (Booth)

Major Factors to Consider When Choosing GRE or GMAT

GMAT vs GRE: Eligibility Criteria

There are no specific eligibility criteria for the GMAT; however, candidates must be at least 18 years old. Those aged 13-17 can also take the test with written consent or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their parents or legal guardians.

Similarly, the ETS has no set guidelines or specific eligibility criteria for the GRE exam, allowing anyone to take the test regardless of age or qualifications. However, candidates should check the specific GRE requirements of the universities they are applying to.

It's important to note that the GRE and GMAT are not the only criteria for admission to universities. Candidates should review the complete eligibility requirements of their chosen institutions. Additionally, students registering for the GRE must have a valid passport, as it is required for identification at the test centers. Therefore, applicants should ensure they have a valid passport before registering for the GRE.

GMAT vs GRE: Test Structure

The GRE exam pattern evaluates candidates based on their Analytical Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning skills. While the exam pattern of GMAT consists of 3 sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. GMAC has launched the GMAT Focus Edition, while ETS has introduced a Shorter Version of the GRE General Test. Below are the primary differences between the both:

Parameter	GMAT Focus Edition	Shorter GRE
Total Test duration	2 hours 15 minutes	1 hour 58 minutes
Total Sections	Quantitative Reasoning Verbal Reasoning Data Insights	Analytical Writing: Essay (1 task) Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections
Total Questions	QR = 21 Questions, 45 Minutes VR = 23 Questions, 45 Minutes DI = 20 Questions, 45 Minutes	Essay: 1 Task, 30 Minutes QR: 27 Questions, 47 Minutes VR: 27 Questions, 41 Minutes

GMAT vs GRE: Exam Duration

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) 2025 Focus Edition has a duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes, including one optional 10-minute break. While, the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) has a duration of 1 hour and 58 minutes, with no scheduled breaks.

GMAT vs GRE: Exam Fees

The GRE exam fee for Indian students is $270 (INR 22,500). Meanwhile, the GMAT exam fee is $275 (INR 22,996) when taken at a test center and $300 (INR 25,086) for the online version. Candidates should be aware that additional services, such as rescheduling the exam or changing test dates and centers, will incur extra costs on top of the exam fee for both tests.

GMAT vs GRE: Test Difficulty level

The GMAT is well-suited for individuals with strong quantitative and analytical skills. Candidates who struggle with mathematics may find the quantitative section of the GMAT syllabus challenging, as it requires proficiency in solving complex problems using data from charts, tables, and texts. Therefore, the GMAT is preferable for those who excel at interpreting and analyzing numerical data.

While, the GRE is considered a better option for individuals with strong vocabulary skills. Non-native English speakers may find the verbal section of the GRE syllabus particularly difficult due to its emphasis on advanced vocabulary. The GRE tests candidates extensively on their knowledge of challenging words and their ability to understand and interpret complex texts.

GMAT vs GRE: Number of Attempts

For the GMAT, candidates can attempt the exam up to 5 times in a year, with a minimum gap of 16 days between each attempt. Additionally, GMAC (the GMAT administrator) allows each candidate to take the GMAT a maximum of 8 times in their lifetime.

In contrast, for the GRE, candidates can attempt the exam up to 5 times in a year, with a minimum gap of 21 days between each attempt. However, the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE, does not impose an official limit on the total number of GRE attempts, though they recommend a maximum of 5 attempts in 5 years.

GRE vs GMAT: Score Reporting

GRE offers candidates the flexibility to choose which scores they send to prospective schools if they take the exam multiple times. Furthermore, the GRE provides the ScoreSelect feature, enabling candidates to select the specific test date for each score they send, adding an extra layer of strategic control over their score reporting. In contrast, for the GMAT, schools receive all scores from every attempt, although many programs only consider the highest score achieved by the candidate. However, the GMAT allows test-takers to cancel their scores immediately after completing the exam or within 72 hours of the test date, providing a means to mitigate the impact of a potentially subpar performance on their official record.

GMAT vs GRE: Which Test is Easier?

Determining which test is easier for you depends on your academic strengths and testing style. The GRE's quantitative section is generally considered easier than the GMAT's, and it allows the use of a calculator. The GRE focuses more on geometry, while the GMAT focuses on logical reasoning questions. In contrast, the GRE's verbal section features more difficult vocabulary, making it more challenging for some non-native English speakers. Many test-takers find the GMAT verbal section slightly easier. Ultimately, how hard each exam feels depends on the individual's strengths and weaknesses. Students are advised to choose the exam that aligns best with their skills and to focus on thorough preparation. With adequate preparation, any section of either exam can be manageable.

Now that you know the difference between GMAT and GRE, let’s quickly determine which test you should take, ensuring you don’t miss a crucial part of your application and avoid wasting time on unnecessary tests.

Which test should you take, GMAT or GRE?

Although most business school applicants opt to take the GMAT, many business schools also accept GRE scores as part of their admissions process. This flexibility allows you to choose the test that best showcases your academic strengths. We advise you to take your career goals, school requirements, your practice exam performance, and score reporting options of universities into consideration to decide which test is right for you. 

Now let’s see some frequently asked questions about GRE vs GMAT.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How are GMAT vs GRE Scores compared for MBA Programs?

Comparing GMAT and GRE scores for MBA programs can be challenging since they are different tests. However, many MBA programs use the ETS comparison tool to convert GRE scores into GMAT equivalents. This helps admissions committees evaluate applicants fairly, regardless of which test they took. To optimise your application, research the score ranges required by your chosen schools and use a business school search tool to gather detailed information about the MBA programs on your list.

2. GRE vs GMAT, which is better?

If you're better at math, the GMAT could be a good choice. If you're good at writing, think about the GRE. But remember, the GRE might be harder for non-native English speakers because of the vocabulary. So, pick the test that matches your strengths and feels right for you.

3. Do Universities prefer GMAT or GRE?

Traditionally, business schools worldwide have favoured the GMAT, but in recent years, the GRE's popularity has grown significantly. Both tests are widely accepted, and choosing between them depends on which allows you to showcase your strengths better.

4. Which is harder, GMAT or GRE?

The difficulty of the GMAT and GRE is subjective and depends on individual strengths and weaknesses. While the GMAT is generally considered more challenging in terms of quantitative questions, the GRE has a slightly more challenging verbal section. The choice between the two exams ultimately depends on personal preferences and academic backgrounds.

5. Does Harvard Prefer GMAT or GRE?

Harvard Business School (HBS) does not favor either the GMAT or GRE. When submitting multiple test scores from either exam, HBS considers only the highest score from a single test sitting. Approximately 30% of current first-year students at HBS submitted GRE scores, indicating a balanced acceptance of both test options.

6. Which test, the GMAT or GRE, do business schools typically favour for MBA admissions?

Although many business schools claim no preference between GMAT or GRE scores, over 90% of applicants submit GMAT scores. Here are three reasons why:

• Assessment Alignment: The GMAT is specifically designed to test skills that MBA admission committees prioritise, helping to predict a candidate’s ability to succeed in an MBA program.
• Career Focus: Submitting a GMAT score can indicate to business schools that you are committed to a career in business, while the GRE’s broader acceptance for various graduate programs may lead to questions about your dedication to business school.
• Familiarity: Business schools are more accustomed to evaluating GMAT scores and may find it easier to compare GMAT scores across applicants. They might even convert GRE scores to GMAT equivalents for consistency in their evaluation process.

7. Which Test is More Difficult: GMAT or GRE?

Both the GMAT and GRE present unique challenges to test takers. While some find the GMAT math section tougher, others struggle more with the GRE verbal portion. Ultimately, the difficulty varies based on individual strengths and weaknesses. Both exams assess skills necessary for graduate-level studies and play a crucial role in admissions decisions. Success on either test depends on thorough preparation and familiarity with the content.

8. What is a good GMAT score?

A good GMAT score generally depends on the target business school, but a score above the average can be considered strong. Total GMAT scores range from 205 to 805, with the average total GMAT score currently at 546. Generally, a good GMAT score is above 546. Additionally, strong section scores would be above the following averages: Verbal 78.99, Quantitative 77.71, and Data Insights 74.41.

9. What is a good GRE score?

For most competitive graduate programs, a combined Verbal and Quantitative score of 315 or higher is considered a strong GRE score. Scores above 320 are typically viewed as excellent and can significantly strengthen your application. The mean verbal score is 151, with the top 10% scoring 160 or higher. The mean quant score is 153, with the top 10% achieving 166 or above. Therefore, the average overall GRE score can be said as approximately 300, and the mean analytical writing score is 4.0.

10. What is the GRE GMAT exam syllabus?

The GRE exam syllabus includes a 30-minute Analytical Writing section, two Verbal Reasoning sections totaling 41 minutes, and two Quantitative Reasoning sections totaling 47 minutes. On the other hand, the GMAT exam syllabus comprises three 45-minute sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.

11. How does the flexibility of the GRE compare to the GMAT?

The GRE offers more flexibility by allowing candidates to skip questions, return to previous questions, and change their answers. It also provides the ScoreSelect option to send only the best scores to schools. In contrast, the GMAT does not allow returning to previous questions once answered, but it allows candidates to cancel scores immediately after the test or within 72 hours.

12. How can you determine whether the GMAT or GRE is the right test for you?

To determine whether the GMAT or GRE is better suited to your abilities, it's essential to start with a practice test for each exam. Business school admissions are highly competitive, and you don't want to take the actual GRE or GMAT without prior experience. Regardless of which test you choose, thorough preparation is crucial to achieving a score that will stand out to admissions officers. 

13. What is the GRE to GMAT score conversion process like? 

The GRE to GMAT score conversion process involves using tools provided by some business schools to estimate GMAT scores based on GRE performance. However, due to differences in test structure and content focus, these conversions may not always be perfectly accurate. It's recommended to consult individual schools for their policies on GRE to GMAT score conversions and how they interpret these converted scores for admissions decisions.

14. Which is better: GMAT or GRE? 

Your choice between the GMAT and GRE should align with your strengths. Opt for the GMAT if you excel in logic and math skills, while the GRE may be preferable if you are strong in writing, reading, and have a vast vocabulary. Additionally, check whether taking a standardized test is necessary, as many programs now offer test-optional admissions.