• Education

GMAT vs GRE : Key differences between the tests

1312 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Feb 05,2024 12:00 PM IST

This blog delves into the significant differences between the GMAT and GRE, two major standardized tests for postgraduate applicants. It clarifies their purposes, content, scoring, and format. It gives a deeper insight into the best choice for graduate students and dissects their key differences to help candidates navigate their academic aspirations.

The pursuit of a master's degree is an exciting journey, but this path comes with many other difficult choices to be made. One of those choices is selecting the appropriate test that aligns with the academic aspirations and target programs that seekers have in their minds. For many, the GMAT and GRE evolve as the prime contestants, leaving a dilemma of what to opt for.

This blog compasses ride through the landscape of the GMAT and GRE. Armed with our knowledge, any candidate can make an informed decision and unlock the door for their future ambitions and academic dreams.

Key Differences in GMAT & GRE- A quick glance

Here are the critical differences to be observed between the GMAT and GRE including their main focus, content they offer and many more.

Feature	GMAT	GRE
Focus	Business and Management	Diverse Graduate Programs ( Arts, Science, Technology etc. )
Content	Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment	Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing
Math Emphasis	Greater emphasis on business-related math concepts	Broader range of quantitative concepts, including calculus
Verbal Emphasis	Analytical reading comprehension, critical reasoning	Reading comprehension, vocabulary, sentence equivalence
Scoring	200-800(10 point increments)	0-340 ( 1- point increment)
Target Programs	MBA, Master of Finance, etc.	Diverse graduate programs in various fields
Average Test Taker	Professionals with business aspirations	Students with diverse academic backgrounds.

Deep dive into the differences

Content and Format	GMAT and GRE diverge in their content. GMAT focuses on business-oriented skills, assessing the contenders quantitative and verbal reasoning abilities within a business context. The Integrated Reasoning section for GMAT tests the ability to analyze the data and draw inferences from multiple sources whereas analytical writing assessment examines the critical thinking and writing skills. Whereas GRE, on the other hand, adopts a broader approach, assessing verbal and quantitative reasoning skills across various academic disciplines. While the verbal Reasoning section echoes the GMAT in its focus on reading comprehension and vocabulary, the quantitative Reasoning section delves deeper into mathematics, including calculus concepts.
Target Audience and Programs	The GMAT primarily focuses on the dedicated MBA aspirants. However, the analytical skills are beneficial for those applying to Master of Finance or other business-related programs. On the other hand, GRE caters a wider range of aspirants from diverse fields including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Technology etc.
Scoring and Interpretation	The GMAT and GRE employ different scoring systems, making it more complicated to differ between the two. GMAT uses a 200-800 scale with 10 points increments, while the GRE utilizes a 0-340 scale with a 1-point increment. A strong GMAT score showcases that an aspirant has great analytical and quantitative skills whereas high GRE score denotes one as a candidate with excellent verbal and reasoning skills for GMAT.

Parameters to distinguish between GMAT and GRE

Below are the parameters that can help students distinguish between GMAT & GRE exams:

Differences	GMAT	GRE
Which business schools accept these tests?	More than 7000 programs at approx. 2300 business schools	Fewer business schools
Total Fees	$275	$220
Test Validity	5 years	5 years
Test dates	Year around	Year around
How the test is administered	Computer-based	Computer-based and paper-based sometimes
Test Format	Computer adaptive	Computer adaptive
Test Duration	2 hours 15 minutes	1 hours 58 minutes

Sections in GMAT and GRE tests

Following graphics would help contenders have the better understanding of different sections they are examined in the GMAT and GRE.

GMAT vs GRE sections.webp

GMAT or GRE, which is easier?

It truly depends on one’s individual strengths and weaknesses and academic goals. Though both exams are challenging, each has its own unique set of difficulties. The best way to determine which exam is easier is by taking practice tests and having a good sense of the content and format of the exam.

GMAT is generally considered the more difficult of the two exams, especially for those with weaker verbal skills. Meanwhile, the vocabulary of the GRE can be more demanding.

When to take the test?

The following things influence when a candidate should take the GMAT or GRE.

Planning is the key	The right time to start preparing should be six months prior to the set target application deadline. This allows ample time for thorough studying and practice tests.
Application deadlines	Most graduate programs have application deadlines between October and January. The candidate must plan the test date and ensure the scores reach the schools on time.
Practice makes perfect	Take practice tests for both exams and assess strengths and weaknesses.
Retakes are possible	Both exams allow retakes, but policies may vary. But it’s advisable to maximize the score at the first attempt itself.

How many attempts a candidate can make?

The number of attempts a candidate can take for the GMAT and GRE varies slightly, but both have some limitations to ensure fairness.

GMAT

Lifetime Limit	8 Attempts
Yearly Limit	5 Attempts
Minimum gap between the attempts	16 days

GRE

Lifetime Limit	No official limit exists, but the Educational Testing Service recommends at most five attempts in 5 years.
Yearly Limit	5 attempts
Minimum gap between attempts	21 days

Here is the detailed guide for all the key differences between two potential contenders of confusion a candidate might have in mind while deciding upon the tests they need to take to fulfil their academic aspirations. Connect with experts at Canam- India’s leading study abroad consultants for any other query and information.

FAQ

What is the most significant difference between the GMAT and the GRE?

GMAT tests business minds with quantitative and analytical skills, while the GRE unlocks diverse graduate doors with verbal and reasoning powers.

Business schools take which scores? GMAT or GRE?

Though few people submit GRE scores, it is recommended to submit GMAT scores as most of the business schools accept GMAT scores, which makes it easy for them to compare the candidates.

What is a good GMAT score?

It depends upon the business school an aspirant is aiming at. It is advisable that your score must be at least 20 higher than the average score of a particular year and the school.

Where can we access practice tests for GMAT and GRE?

The most genuine and accurate option can be official practice tests offered by test makers, i.e. MBA.com for GMAT and ETS for GRE.

Which section of the GMAT is most challenging?

The subjective section is more challenging as it depends on individual strengths and weaknesses.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Capilano University - Squamish Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 0-0 / year

University of Cumbria - Lancaster Campus

England, UK • 16 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 10000-16000 / year

Northumbria University - Newcastle City Campus

England, UK • 298 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 16000-17000 / year

Kaplan Group - University of Alberta - North Campus

Alberta, Canada • 77 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 31000-40500 / year

Global University Systems (GUS) - Concordia University Chicago

Illinois, USA • 37 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 31500-32800 / year

Kaplan Group - Massey University - Manawatu Campus

North Island, New Zealand • 137 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 27000-97500 / year

EBS University - Rheingau Campus

Hesse, Germany • 24 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 0-0 / year

St. Lawrence College - Brockville Campus

Ontario, Canada • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17500-23500 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Edmonds College, USA

Study in USA • University Visit

Vadodara • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Northeastern University

Study in Canada, USA • University Visit

Bangalore • 03:30PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Roger Williams University, USA

Study in USA • Webinar

Hyderabad-Kukatpally • 12:30PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Best Countries to Study MBBS Abroad at Low Cost

Studying MBBS abroad is more than just earning a degree. It's about acquiring a globally recognised medical degree that opens doors to advanced medica...

Updated on • Dec 14,2024 04:17 PM IST • Courses in Canada

MBA in Finance in New Zealand

Did you know New Zealand has become an emerging destination for pursuing an MBA (Master of Business Administration) program? The number of MBA student...

Updated on • Dec 13,2024 05:05 PM IST • New Zealand

Education System in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the "Lion City," has one of the most holistic and innovative education systems in the world. The Organization for Economic Co...

Updated on • Dec 12,2024 05:03 PM IST • Singapore

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

GMAT vs GRE : Key differences between the tests

Table of Contents

Key Differences in GMAT & GRE- A quick glance

Deep dive into the differences

Parameters to distinguish between GMAT and GRE

Sections in GMAT and GRE tests

GMAT or GRE, which is easier?

When to take the test?

How many attempts a candidate can make?

GMAT

GRE

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams