You need to choose between the GRE and GMAT for your master’s program. This decision is important. It can shape your academic future. Both tests are widely accepted by business schools. But they have key differences.
This guide helps Indian students decide. We will look at what each test is about. We will also consider which one fits your goals.
What Are the Tests?
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a test for business school. It measures skills you need in an MBA program. It has three sections. There’s Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. The GMAT Focus Edition is the latest version. It’s shorter than the old one. It takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It has an optional 10-minute break. The GMAT is an adaptive test. The difficulty of each question changes based on your last answer.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a general test. You can use it for many graduate programs, not just business. The GRE General Test has three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. It takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes. The verbal and quantitative sections are “section-level adaptive.” This means your performance in one section affects the difficulty of the next.
Which Test Fits Your Strengths?
Think about your skills. Which test plays to your strengths?
The GMAT quant section is considered harder. It focuses on data sufficiency and problem-solving. These questions require logical thinking. If you are strong in math and logic, the GMAT might be a good fit. Its verbal section tests critical reasoning. It also has reading comprehension. The GMAT Focus Edition removed the Analytical Writing section. It introduced Data Insights. This section assesses your ability to analyze data from multiple sources.
The GRE quant section is seen as slightly easier. It lets you use an on-screen calculator. The questions cover algebra, geometry, and data analysis. If you struggle with high-level math, the GRE can be less intimidating. Its verbal section is known for its vocabulary. It tests a lot of complex words. If you have a strong vocabulary and are a good writer, this section may be easier for you.
The Cost and Retake Policy
Taking a standardized test is an investment. The GRE exam fee in India is around ₹22,000. You get to send your scores to four schools for free. Additional score reports cost extra. You can retake the GRE every 21 days. You can take it up to five times in a year.
The GMAT exam fee is $275, which is roughly ₹23,000. It includes unlimited score reports. You can retake the GMAT every 16 days. It can be taken up to five times in a year. Both exams allow you to cancel your scores.
What Do Schools Prefer?
This is a big factor. The GMAT was once the only test for business schools. This is not the case anymore. Most top Business Schools now accept both the GRE and the GMAT. However, the GMAT is still the more popular choice for MBA applications. This is especially true for applicants from traditional fields like finance. Some recruiters also look for GMAT scores.
Indian students aiming for an MBA often find the GMAT is the default option. But a strong GRE score can still get you into the same programs. For example, ISB, IIM Ahmedabad, and IIM Bangalore accept GRE scores. Many top global schools like Harvard and Stanford also accept both. If you are also considering non-MBA graduate programs, the GRE is a flexible choice. It lets you apply to both MBA and MS programs with one test.
If you are certain about a business career, the GMAT shows your commitment. But, do not take a test just because it is a popular choice. Admissions officers want to see a strong score. They want to see a score that demonstrates your ability to handle the coursework.
Making Your Decision
Think about your career goals. If your heart is set on an MBA, the GMAT is a direct path. If you are still exploring different graduate programs, the GRE is a great option. It gives you more flexibility.
PrepGuru Academy can help you get ready. We offer comprehensive gmat online classes for the GMAT Focus Edition. For those choosing the other route, our gre online coaching is also excellent. Our instructors provide personalized support. They help you build the skills you need. We can help you achieve your target score.
Our programs are designed for Indian students. We understand your challenges. We help you overcome them. We want you to succeed. Our goal is to be the Best GRE classes in India. We also aim to offer the best gmat online coaching.
Visit prepguru.academy to learn more about our courses. A great score on either test can open many doors. Choose the one that feels right for you. Start preparing now. Your future is waiting.
