Complete comparison between GMAT and GRE: differences, structure, scores and criteria to choose the test best suited to your profile and goals.
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When it comes to choosing between GMAT and GRE, many candidates face similar doubts: which test is more difficult? Which do business schools prefer? The differences between GMAT and GRE don't just concern the structure of the questions, but also the type of reasoning that is evaluated, the exam format and how scores are interpreted by schools. In this guide we will analyze the main differences between the two tests, explain how the sections work and help you understand which to choose based on your profile and goals. The approach will be practical: we will compare structure, perceived difficulty, interpretation of results and preparation strategies. At the end you will have the tools to decide consciously which test to face.
GMAT vs GRE: general overview
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examination) are two standardized tests used for admission to graduate programs, but with different functions and audiences. The GMAT was designed specifically for business schools and evaluates analytical, quantitative and verbal skills useful in managerial contexts. The GRE, instead, is a more general test, accepted by many master's and doctoral programs in different disciplines, not just economics.
Historically, the GMAT was the only test accepted by major business schools. Today, over 90% of MBA programs also accept the GRE. This openness offers greater flexibility to candidates, especially to those who wish to keep multiple academic paths open simultaneously. However, some business schools continue to show an implicit preference for the GMAT, considering it more aligned with managerial skills.
Both tests measure critical reasoning, verbal comprehension and quantitative thinking skills, but do so in different ways. The choice between GMAT and GRE depends on many factors: the type of program you're applying to, your academic strengths, the time available for preparation and your overall application strategy.
GMAT structure and main sections
The GMAT Focus Edition, introduced in 2023, simplified the test structure compared to previous versions. It now consists of three main sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights. Each section evaluates specific skills adaptively, which means that the difficulty of questions changes based on the answers given.
The Quantitative Reasoning section includes 21 questions to complete in 45 minutes. These questions concern arithmetic, algebra, geometry and word problems. Advanced mathematical knowledge is not required, but mastery of basic concepts applied to complex situations is needed. The difficulty often lies in the reasoning required more than in the formulas.
The Verbal Reasoning section, also with 23 questions in 45 minutes, measures the ability to read critically, analyze arguments and correct structural errors in sentences. It includes Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. This section can be challenging for non-native English speakers, because it requires speed and precision in understanding complex texts.
Data Insights is one of the innovations of GMAT Focus. It comprises 20 questions in 45 minutes and evaluates the ability to interpret graphs, tables and datasets, solve multi-source problems and apply analytical reasoning. It's a practical section, which simulates real situations of data analysis in business.
GRE structure and main sections
The GRE consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing. Unlike the GMAT, the GRE includes a mandatory written test, which evaluates the ability to argue coherently and analytically. The structure is less rigid than the GMAT and allows greater control over some variables, such as the possibility to skip and review questions within each section.
The Verbal Reasoning section consists of two modules with 20 questions each, to complete in 30 minutes per module. Questions include Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence and Reading Comprehension. Compared to the GMAT, the GRE tends to require a broader and more complex vocabulary, which can be a challenge for those not familiar with technical or formal terms in English.
The Quantitative Reasoning section is similar to the GMAT, but with some differences. The GRE allows the use of a calculator, while the GMAT doesn't. Additionally, the GRE includes "Quantitative Comparison" type questions, which ask to compare two values without necessarily calculating the exact result. This type of question requires a strategic approach and can favor those with good numerical sense.
Differences in the quantitative section
Analytical Writing requires writing two essays in 60 total minutes: one to analyze an argument (Argument Task) and one to express your opinion on a general topic (Issue Task). This section is important to demonstrate academic writing ability, but is often less relevant for business schools compared to other programs.
Differences in the verbal section
Key differences between GMAT and GRE
The differences between GMAT and GRE go beyond structure: they concern the type of skills evaluated, the administration mode and the required approach. Knowing these differences helps you understand which test best fits your abilities and academic goals.
A fundamental difference concerns the verbal section. The GMAT focuses on critical reasoning and text comprehension in business-oriented contexts, while the GRE requires a broader vocabulary and more sophisticated linguistic skills. If you have a humanities or linguistic background, you might feel more comfortable with the GRE. If instead you prefer reasoning on logical arguments without relying on complex vocabulary, the GMAT may be more suitable.
On the quantitative front, both tests evaluate basic mathematical skills, but with different approaches. The GMAT tends to be more conceptual and requires solving complex problems without a calculator. The GRE, instead, allows the use of a calculator and includes questions that can be solved more quickly if you apply strategic reasoning. The choice depends on your level of confidence with mathematics and your mental calculation speed.
Another important difference is the scoring system. The GMAT uses a scale from 205 to 805 (for GMAT Focus), while the GRE goes from 260 to 340. Scores are not directly comparable, and business schools use conversion tables to interpret them. Some institutions still prefer the GMAT because it's considered more predictive of success in MBA programs, but this trend is changing.
Which test to choose: practical criteria
The choice between GMAT and GRE is not universal: it depends on your profile, your strengths and the programs you're applying to. Here are some practical criteria to guide you in the decision.
If you're applying exclusively to MBA or business-related programs, the GMAT is often the most natural choice. It was born for this context and many business schools continue to consider it a reliable indicator. However, if you're also evaluating programs in other disciplines (economics, data science, policy), the GRE offers greater flexibility and can be used for multiple applications.
Also evaluate your academic strengths. If you have a solid quantitative background and prefer reasoning without a calculator, the GMAT plays in your favor. If instead your English vocabulary is broad and you feel more confident in the verbal section, the GRE might be more suitable. Try both tests in simulation mode before deciding: many candidates are surprised to discover they perform better on one of the two.
Also consider the time available for preparation. The GMAT requires targeted preparation on logic and critical reasoning, while the GRE requires expanding vocabulary and practicing argumentative writing. If you already have familiarity with academic essays, the GRE might require less overall effort.
Finally, consult the preferences of schools you're applying to. Even though most accept both tests, some publish more detailed statistics on one of the two, signaling an implicit preference. Checking admission data and talking with alumni can provide useful indications.
Interpretation of scores and conversion
Understanding how GMAT and GRE scores are interpreted is fundamental to evaluate your competitiveness. Business schools use these results to compare candidates, but the two tests have different scales and are not directly overlapping.
The GMAT Focus Edition uses a scale from 205 to 805, with 10-point increments. A score of 655 is considered competitive for many MBA programs, while for top schools the aim is 700 or higher. The GRE, instead, goes from 260 to 340, with 1-point increments. A score of 320 is generally seen as equivalent to about 650-670 on the GMAT, but conversions vary.
Many schools publish official conversion tables or use tools like ETS's GRE Comparison Tool to compare scores. However, it's important not to rely blindly on these conversions: each business school has its own internal metrics and may weight sections differently. For example, some schools give greater importance to the quantitative section, while others evaluate verbal reasoning more.
FAQ
Which test is more difficult, GMAT or GRE?
There's no universal answer: it depends on your strengths. The GMAT tends to be more challenging in the quantitative section and critical reasoning, while the GRE requires a broader vocabulary. Try both tests in simulation mode to understand which better fits you.
Do business schools prefer GMAT over GRE?
Historically yes, but today over 90% of MBA programs accept both. Some top schools still show a slight preference for the GMAT, but the difference is decreasing. Check the admission statistics of schools you're applying to.
Can I switch from GRE to GMAT or vice versa?
Yes, many candidates try both tests. It's advisable to do official simulations of both before deciding. If after a few weeks of preparation on one test you don't see progress, consider switching to the other.
How much time is needed to prepare for GMAT or GRE?
It depends on your starting level. On average, 2-3 months of consistent study are needed for the GMAT and the same for the GRE. If you're starting from zero in math or English, you might need more time. The key is to be consistent and targeted in preparation.
Is GRE easier than GMAT for the quantitative section?
Not necessarily. The GRE allows the use of a calculator, but questions still require strategic reasoning. The GMAT is more conceptual and prohibits the calculator. The "ease" depends on your learning style and mathematical abilities.