ApexGRE
0If you are considering pursuing a graduate degree, you will likely need to take either the GMAT or GRE exam. While both exams are used for admission into graduate programs, there are some key differences between the two.
Both the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) are standardized tests that have a lot in common in terms of their purpose. But GMAT is required for admission to most business schools while GRE is accepted by most graduate schools. But how do they differ?
GMAT or GRE: How are they different?
| GMAT | GRE | |
| What are they? | A standardized test required by most business schools. | A standardized test required by most graduate schools, including many business schools. |
| Format | The GMAT has four sections. A 31-minute Quantitative Reasoning section, a 65-minute Verbal Reasoning section, a 30-minute Integrated Reasoning section, and a 30-minute Analytical Writing section. | The GRE has four sections. Two 35-minute Quantitative Reasoning sections, Two 35-minute Verbal Reasoning sections, a 60- minute Analytical Writing, and one unscored section that could be verbal or quantitative. |
| Testing time | 3.5 hrs | 3.75 hrs |
| Scoring | GMAT is scored on a scale of 200-800 in increments of 10. | GRE is scored on a scale of 130-170 in increments of 1. |
| Cost | The GMAT costs $250 with a $35 fee for each score report sent after the first five free reports. | The GRE costs $205 with a $50 fee for each score report sent after the first four free reports. |
| Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
GMAT or GRE: Which exam to take?
That depends on your future plans after you complete your degree. Most people choose to take the GMAT because it’s tailored specifically for business school applicants. But if you’re interested in other graduate programs as well, or you want a more comprehensive test that covers more topics, then the GRE might be a better option for you.
Also, it’s always best to check with the schools that you intend to attend and see which test they prefer.
GMAT or GRE: Bottom line
Both tests are designed to measure a person’s ability to think critically and solve problems. The GMAT is specifically geared towards students who want to pursue a career in business, while the GRE is more general and can be used for admission into a variety of graduate programs.
If you need help deciding which exam to take or preparing for either of them, reach out to our tutors at ApexGRE or ApexGMAT for private personalized tutoring sessions. We offer 30-minute complimentary consultations with one of the top-scoring instructors.
Contributor: Cynthia Addoumieh
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