GRE Vs GMAT, which exam should you consider? Multiple students apply abroad for better education access and to build a bright future in their chosen field. While securing good academic scores is one aspect, clearing entrance exams is another one which is equally important in the admission process. Taking the GMAT or GRE exam is important to study in the best business institutes globally. But what is the difference between GRE and GMAT? And which one should a candidate prefer between the two?
GRE and GMAT allow top business institutes to analyse the skills and knowledge of students in multiple domains, such as analytical thinking, mathematics, English writing, and more. But there is always confusion on which to study, GMAT or GRE? Thus, in this article, to help you make this decision, we have covered all essential details related to GRE vs GMAT: syllabus, exam costs, difficulty level, etc.
Latest Update for GRE Aspirants: The GRE General Test fee will increase by $15 USD and cost $228 USD for test takers in India from November 1, 2022. Besides, the cost of additional score reports will increase to $30 USD globally.
Difference Between GRE & GMAT
What is GMAT vs GRE difference? The basic difference between GRE and GMAT is that GMAT is typically asked by business schools for admissions, whereas GRE is accepted for various graduate programs. Besides, the two tests have different patterns, formats, testing policies, modes of sending scores, etc.
Before you can proceed towards understanding the common queries, such as which is harder, GMAT or GRE or what is the difference between GRE verbal vs GMAT verbal, let’s first analyse the differences between these two exams:
|
Distinguishing Factors |
GRE Exam |
GMAT Exam |
|
Exam Sections |
GRE tests aspirants on the basis of Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning |
GMAT has an additional section of Integrated Reasoning along with the Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical sections. |
|
Verbal Reasoning |
Focuses on vast vocabulary |
Focuses on grammar |
|
Quantitative Reasoning |
2 sections |
1 section |
|
Analytical Writing |
2 essays |
1 essay |
|
Testing Style |
Section Adaptive |
Computer Adaptive |
|
Exam Duration |
3 hrs 45 min |
3 hrs 7 min |
Top GRE Accepting Universities
Shortlisting universities for GRE and GMAT can be tough. But worry not. We have explained the GRE/ GMAT eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, difficulty level, etc. After understanding the differences between the two, you can make your choice about the exam and top universities asking for the scores.
GRE Vs GMAT: Eligibility Criteria
There are no guidelines when writing for GMAT or GRE exams. However, there is a common requirement that is followed by both, such as:
- No age limit (However, students below 18 years should get written permission from their legal guardian or parent to write the exam)
- Availability of a graduate degree
- Availability of a valid passport (Now Aadhar card is also accepted)
Now you know the eligibility criteria. Next, let’s explore…
Syllabus Comparison Between GRE & GMAT
GRE and GMAT syllabus has a few differences. Based on your choice, the syllabus will vary according to the present exam sections. To help you have a better understanding, here is an overview of the GRE vs GMAT syllabus:
|
Distinguishing Factors |
GRE Syllabus |
GMAT Syllabus |
|
Analytical Writing |
An argumentative essay An issue-based essay |
An argumentative essay |
|
Verbal |
Modifiers and Parallelism Idioms and Idiomatic expressions Verb tense Pronoun Agreement Subject-Verb Agreement Nouns, Adjectives, Pronouns Synonyms and Antonyms |
Modifiers and Parallelism Idioms and Idiomatic expressions Verb tense Pronoun Agreement Subject-Verb Agreement Nouns, Adjectives, Pronouns Boldface Strengths and weaknesses Paradox Assumptions Synonyms and Antonyms |
|
Quantitative |
Arithmetic Geometry Data Analysis Algebra |
Arithmetic Geometry Data Analysis Algebra |
|
Integrated Reasoning |
- |
Multi-Source Reasoning Table Analysis Graphics Interpretation Two-Part Analysis |
How to Study Well for GRE Exam?
GRE Vs GMAT: Exam Pattern
Now let’s move towards understanding the exam pattern for GRE vs GMAT. Here is an overview for a simpler understanding:
|
Exam Sections |
GRE |
GRE Duration |
GMAT |
GMAT Duration |
|
Analytical Writing |
2 questions, 2 essays |
60 minutes |
1 question, 1 essay |
30 minutes |
|
Quantitative section |
20 x 2 questions |
35 minutes x 2 |
31 questions |
62 minutes |
|
Verbal section |
20 x 2 questions |
30 minutes x 2 |
36 questions |
65 minutes |
|
Experimental Section |
20 questions |
30 minutes |
- |
- |
|
Integrated Reasoning |
- |
- |
12 questions |
30 minutes |
You further understand the GRE exam pattern in detail by exploring this video by Yocket’s expert counsellors.
GRE Vs GMAT Difficulty
Answering the most common question of students, GRE vs GMAT difficulty? Is any of them easy? Here is an overview to answer this query better:
You must understand that the GRE and GMAT are both aptitude tests designed to check if you’re capable of becoming successful in the future. Thus, both of these tests are challenging. However, experienced test takers claim that GRE is comparatively easier than GMAT.
Although the other way to look at this is that since GMAT has a challenging Quantitative section, many candidates feel that GMAT is tougher than GRE. On the contrary, the GRE's verbal section isn’t the easiest to score for most students owing to a vast need for good vocabulary.
To sum it up, some students might have trouble with GRE’s Verbal section scoring, while others might face issues with GMAT’s Quantitative challenges.
GRE Vs GMAT: Marking Scheme
Now that you are getting a better understanding of GRE vs GMAT in this category, let’s learn about the marking scheme, also known as the scoring process.
|
GRE Scoring |
GMAT Scoring |
|
Analytical Writing: 0-6 |
Analytical Writing: 0-6 |
|
Verbal Reasoning Section: 130-170 |
Verbal Reasoning Section: 6-51 |
|
Quantitative Reasoning: 130-170 |
Quantitative Section: 6-51 |
|
One unscored section: 0 |
Integrated Reasoning: 1-8 |
|
Total Score: 260-340 |
Total Score: 200-800 |
Which universities offer GMAT/GRE waiver?
GRE Vs GMAT: Exam Fees
The cost of GRE vs GMAT exam is as follows:
GRE Vs GMAT: Exam Attempts
Students are not restricted to attempting for GMAT or GRE exam after one attempt. Based on the exam choice, students are allowed a maximum attempt of:
- GRE- Upto 5 attempts, the test can be taken once every 21 days
- GMAT- Upto 2 times
GRE Vs GMAT: Accepted By
When you decide to write either the GMAT or GRE exam, you should also consider where your scores will be accepted the most. For instance, with GRE, the score is accepted by MS, MBA, and PhD. For GMAT, the score is accepted by business schools. Next, let’s explore the top universities accepting GRE/ GMAT scores.
GRE Vs GMAT: Top Universities
Following is the list of top 5 universities accepting GRE and GMAT scores.
|
GRE Accepting Universities |
GMAT Accepting Universities |
|
Stanford University |
|
GRE Vs GMAT: Which Exam Should You Choose?
So what do you think, which one is easier GMAT or GRE? GRE usually has a less difficult quantitative section compared to GMAT. So if you have better mathematical skills, choose GMAT or vice versa. However, the selection between GRE and GMAT depends on factors like your selected course, university requirements, test style preference, GMAT vs GRE score comparison, career goals, etc.
No matter which exam you choose, attaining a good GRE and GMAT score can help you get accepted into a globally recognised and prestigious institute. With good GMAT/ GRE scores, you can bag handsome packages and get placed well. So, remember that you need to put your best foot forward and up your game! Further, check out this video explaining the list of universities that accept 300-310 GRE scores.
Aptitude tests such as GRE, GMAT, or others evaluate your IQ using the testing methods of verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, language skill tests, integrated reasoning, etc, to confirm your expertise on the subject. This ensures you’re ready to be on board for a successful career. Knowing the difference between GRE and GMAT will help you make the right pick for courses and colleges. Whichever exam you decide to go with, start preparing for it at the earliest.
If you decide to take the GRE test, explore our Yocket prep product, including free GRE diagnostic tests, a priority planner, and a complete prep package with GRE prep+. This service will help you strategise your GRE preparation under expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRE Vs GMAT
Ques: What is the difference between GRE and GMAT in terms of cost?
Ans: The exam fee for the GRE is USD $228 (with effect from November 1, 2022), whereas, for the GMAT, it is USD $250.
Ques: Is GRE and GMAT syllabus same?
Ans: GRE and GMAT are aptitude tests taken to seek admission abroad. However, the tests are different in terms of sections, question types, scores, syllabus, and cost.
Ques: Is GRE easier than GMAT?
Ans: Every test taker has this question in mind; GMAT vs GRE, which is easier? Experts explain that even though the quantitative section of the GRE can be easier than GMAT, those who prefer logic problems over geometry questions can take the GMAT. However, the difficulty level depends from person to person based on their command over the GRE/GMAT test, the pattern, syllabus, etc.
Ques: Should I take the GMAT or GRE for MBA?
Ans: GMAT is best suited between GMAT vs GRE for MBA or Business related courses.
Ques: What if you’ve taken the GRE examination and one of the universities you want to apply to requires a GMAT score?
Ans: Many GRE score converter websites are available for you online. You can check with your desired university if they accept the conversion scores. If not, you still have a vague idea of your performance on the GRE. As you would have attended the GRE, a little more preparation will have you ready for the GMAT.
Ques: Can you apply for a PhD with a GRE score?
Ans: Yes, you can apply for a PhD with a good GRE score.
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