GMAT vs. GRE: Which Graduate Admissions Test Is Right For You?
After a few years of work experience post-college, you’ve decided that you’re ready to apply to business school. When you look at the application requirements, you notice that you can submit either GMAT or GRE scores. To have a standout business school application, you need an impressive result on one of these standardized tests, since admissions committees use them to compare applicants across different backgrounds. So how do you choose between the GMAT vs GRE?
The process of deciding between the GMAT vs GRE involves assessing your strengths, whether you want to keep other graduate options open, and how each test is viewed by MBA programs. To guide you through, we’ve outlined the major differences between the exams, how to decide which one fits your profile, and what role they play in admissions decisions today.
GMAT vs GRE: Finding the Right Test for You
Your goal in choosing between the GMAT vs GRE is to focus on the test that will allow you to earn your highest possible score. Although both are widely accepted by top MBA programs, they are not identical exams. Here are the main points of comparison:
| Attribute | GMAT (Focus Edition) | GRE General Test |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based only | Computer-based or at-home |
| Length | About 2 hours 15 minutes | About 1 hour 58 minutes |
| Number of sections | 3 | 3 |
| Section breakdown | Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights | Quantitative, Verbal, Analytical Writing |
| Calculator use | Not allowed on Quant | Allowed on Quant |
| Score scale | 205–805 | 260–340 |
| Cost (U.S.) | $275 test center / $300 online | $220 worldwide |
| Score validity | 5 years | 5 years |
The GMAT Focus Edition, launched in 2023, is shorter than the old GMAT and emphasizes quantitative reasoning, data analysis, and verbal reasoning. It is designed specifically for MBA applicants, with sections that test skills directly tied to business school coursework. The GRE, on the other hand, is broader in scope and accepted by graduate programs outside of business, making it appealing if you want to keep your options flexible.
GMAT vs GRE: MBA Admissions
Most business schools today accept both exams. In fact, admissions officers often emphasize that they have no official preference between GMAT vs GRE. Still, the GMAT is seen as the more traditional choice for MBA programs. Its focus on quantitative and data insights skills makes it attractive to admissions committees that want reassurance you’ll succeed in a rigorous MBA curriculum.
That said, the GRE has steadily gained traction. At many top programs, the percentage of students submitting GRE scores has grown in recent years. For example, Harvard Business School reported that more than 40% of the Class of 2026 submitted GRE scores. Still, the GMAT remains the most common test among MBA applicants overall, especially at highly selective schools.
So which should you take? If you know for certain that your goal is business school, the GMAT may demonstrate clearer commitment. If you want flexibility for other graduate programs or feel more comfortable with GRE-style verbal reasoning, the GRE may give you an edge.
How to Decide Between GMAT vs GRE
When comparing GMAT vs GRE, ask yourself:
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Where are your strengths? If math and data interpretation are your strong suits, you may find the GMAT more aligned with your skills. If verbal reasoning and vocabulary are strengths, the GRE may feel more comfortable.
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What are your long-term goals? If you might consider other graduate programs, the GRE opens more doors. If you are fully committed to business school, the GMAT may carry more weight.
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What do your target schools prefer? While most say they accept both, some programs still report a stronger GMAT presence in their incoming classes.
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What do your practice tests show? The best way to decide is to take a full-length practice test for each and compare your relative performance.
Ultimately, the right choice is the exam where you can achieve the highest percentile score, since admissions committees will always consider your application holistically.
Make the Right Choice for Your GMAT vs GRE Path
Deciding between the GMAT vs GRE is one of the first steps in your MBA application journey. Our admissions experts, Former Admissions Officers and Graduate Coaches from top business schools, can help you interpret your practice scores, evaluate your strengths, and design a complete application strategy that highlights your potential. Start your free consultation today to feel confident in your GMAT vs GRE decision and every part of your business school application.