When you’re planning to study abroad for a graduate degree, one of the first questions that comes up is, Should I take the GRE or the GMAT? Both exams are well-recognized and accepted by top universities, but the right choice depends on your goals. The GRE tends to be more popular among students who are considering a wide range of master’s programs, from STEM and social sciences to humanities. The GMAT, on the other hand, is more focused on business and management programs. In this blog, we’ll help you understand the key differences between the two exams and share some useful test prep advice, so you can make the right choice and prepare with confidence.
From a university’s point of view, these exams are more than just numbers on an application. They’re tools to measure how well you’ll handle the academic challenges of their programs. Business schools often prefer the GMAT because its focus on quantitative and analytical skills reflects the problem-solving and decision-making you’ll need in management. If you’re applying to an MBA, a good GMAT score can also signal your commitment to the business track. On the other hand, universities that offer non-business master’s degrees, like engineering, computer science, or economics, tend to lean towards the GRE. It covers a wider range of academic skills, including vocabulary and problem-solving, which makes it suitable for a variety of programs. If you’re still deciding between different kinds of degrees or want flexibility, the GRE often works better because it’s accepted across disciplines.
| Feature | GRE | GMAT |
| Full Name | Graduate Record Examination | Graduate Management Admission Test |
| Purpose | Admission to graduate programs (all fields, incl. business & law) | Specifically for business school (MBA & related programs) |
| Test Sections | – Analytical Writing- Verbal Reasoning- Quantitative Reasoning | – Quantitative Reasoning- Verbal Reasoning- Data Insights |
| Section Details | Analytical Writing: 1 essayVerbal: 27 questionsQuant: 27 questions | Quant: 21 questionsVerbal: 23 questionsData Insights: 20 questions |
| Exam Duration | 1 hour 58 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes (plus an optional 10-minute break) |
| Format | Computer-based, section-adaptive | Computer-based, question-adaptive (each question adjusts based on your answer) |
| Scoring Scale | Verbal & Quant: 130–170 (1-point increments)Writing: 0–6 | Total score: 205–805(combines all 3 sections; no writing score) |
| Calculator Policy | Allowed for Quant section (on-screen calculator) | Not allowed in Quant, but allowed in Data Insights section |
| Question Review | Can review & change answers within each section | Can review/change only up to 3 answers per section (latest Focus Edition) |
| Test Emphasis | Heavier on vocabulary, reading, and writing skills | Heavier on logic, analytical and data reasoning; less on vocabulary |
| Math Topics | Algebra, geometry, arithmetic, data analysis | Focused on logic, arithmetic, algebra; less geometry |
| Acceptability | Accepted by most graduate schools, many business and law schools | Preferred by most business schools (MBA programs) |
| Who Should Take? | If applying to a wide range of grad programs, or non-quant strengths | If focused on business school, or strong in logic/reasoning |
GRE vs. GMAT: How to Prepare
When deciding between the GRE and GMAT, you might also be tempted by the growing trend of test-optional applications. At first glance, skipping the test can seem like an attractive option, but there are a few things you should know before you make that choice.
Should You Go Test-Optional?
- Top schools rarely make tests truly optional.
While some institutions claim to be test-optional, most top-ranking schools—especially those in the top 20—still expect competitive applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores. These schools attract the best talent, and the applicant pool is usually filled with strong profiles who have taken the tests. If your profile is similar to others but you haven’t submitted a score, you’ll likely be at a disadvantage. - Test-optional schools are often less competitive.
Many of the programs that waive test requirements aren’t among the most competitive or prestigious. Deciding which school is right for you is a personal choice, but if you’re aiming high, be prepared to take the GRE or GMAT. - Some universities offer test waivers: But these must be applied for well in advance. Approval typically depends on the candidate’s academic background and the coursework of their previous degree. If the waiver isn’t granted, applicants may be required to submit a GMAT/GRE score or complete prerequisite courses before starting their program at the admitted university.”
How to Start Your Prep
Whether you choose the GRE or GMAT, your preparation journey should begin the same way:
- Take a diagnostic mock test.
Start with a free full-length mock test available online. Take it in one sitting—no breaks—just like you would in the actual exam. Don’t prepare for it beforehand. This isn’t about getting a great score; it’s about understanding the test format, experiencing the time pressure, and figuring out where you stand.
- Pay attention to what feels overwhelming.
- Identify your weak areas (timing, specific question types, or content gaps).
- Use this as a baseline to plan your prep.
- Plan a realistic timeline (3–6 months).
Most test takers are either busy students or working professionals, so finding consistent study time can be challenging. A 3- to 6-month prep window works well because:
- It gives you enough time to build momentum and cover the syllabus.
- You can balance learning, practice, and full-length mocks without burning out.
- Stretching preparation too long can lead to fatigue and diminishing returns.
- Structure your practice.
- Start by completing your syllabus.
- Move to sectional practice—focus on verbal and quant separately.
- Once confident, take full-length mock tests to simulate the real exam.
- Analyze each mock thoroughly—don’t dismiss errors as “silly mistakes.” Every mistake is a learning opportunity, whether it’s poor time management, second-guessing, or test-day pressure.
- Track your progress.
When your scores stabilize across at least three mocks, and your weaknesses are under control, it’s time to book your test. Don’t chase a “perfect” 720+ at the cost of burnout; instead, know where your competence realistically lies.
When to Take the Test
Both GRE and GMAT scores are valid for five years, so you have flexibility.
- College students often find it easiest to take the test in their final year when academics are their primary focus.
- Working professionals should avoid scheduling the test too close to application deadlines. You’ll need time to polish your essays, secure recommendations, and possibly retake the test if your first attempt doesn’t go as planned.
Self-Prep vs. Hiring a Tutor
Should you prepare on your own or hire a tutor? It depends.
- Self-prep works well if you’re disciplined, have strong foundations, and can stay consistent.
- Tutors can help if you need accountability, strategy tips, or expert insights. Standardized tests are not just about knowing concepts; they test how quickly and accurately you can apply logic under time pressure. If you’re stuck at a score plateau or struggling to analyze your mistakes, professional guidance can be a game-changer.
Final Thoughts
The GRE and GMAT are gateways to top graduate and MBA programs, and while test-optional policies exist, serious applicants—especially those targeting competitive schools—are better off submitting strong scores. Start early, create a strategy, and remember that test prep is as much about strategy and mindset as it is about concepts.
