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GRE vs GMAT: Choosing the Right Test for Your Graduate Journey

Choosing between the GRE and GMAT is a critical decision for prospective graduate students. Let’s compare the two tests and help you make an informed choice.

Key Differences

AspectGREGMAT
Why Take It Required for admission to most graduate schools and an increasing number of business schools. Required for admission to most business schools.
Test Structure
  • 30-minute Analytical Writing section.
  • Two Verbal Reasoning sections totaling 41 minutes
  • Two Quantitative Reasoning sections totaling 47 minutes.
Three 45-minute sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights.
Test FormatComputer-adaptive by section exam.Computer-adaptive test.
How It's ScoredVerbal and Quantitative scores range from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.Composite score ranges from 205 to 805 in 10-point increments
Cost$220$250
Testing TimeJust under 2 hours2 hours, 15 minutes
How Long Are Scores Valid For?5 years5 years

Pros and Cons

GRE

Pros
  • Widely accepted (including business schools)
  • Flexible testing options (including at home facility)
  • Less costly than GMAT (220$)
Cons
  • Verbal Section can be challenging

Best Resources for GRE Preparation

ETS Official Guide to the GRE
The most authentic source of practice questions and test-taking strategies.
Approximately
$40
ETS Official Guide
go to ets
Manhattan Prep GRE Series
Comprehensive books covering all sections, with in-depth strategies and practice questions.
Full set for around
$150
Manhattan Prep GRE
go to manhattan
Magoosh GRE Prep
Offers a wide range of online practice questions, video explanations, and study schedules.
$149
–
$179
Magoosh GRE Prep
go to magoosh
Kaplan GRE Prep
Known for its detailed instructional materials and practice tests.
$499
–
$999
Kaplan GRE Prep
go to kaplan
Princeton Review GRE Prep
Offers both self-paced and live online courses with extensive practice questions and tests.
$499
–
$1,199
Princeton Review GRE Prep
go to princeton
Saad Amer GRE Resources
Renowned for providing concise, effective strategies and materials.
Varies
Saad Amer’s GRE Resources
youtube
instagram

GMAT

Pros
  • Specifically designed for business schools
  • Recognized for rigorous assessment of quantitative skills
Cons
  • Higher test fees (250$)
  • Quantitative section can be challenging

Best Resources for GMAT Preparation

GMAC Official Guide to the GMAT
The most reliable source for official practice questions and test-taking strategies.
Approximately
$40
GMAC Official Guide
go to gmac
Manhattan Prep GMAT Series
Offers comprehensive coverage of all test sections with detailed strategies.
Full set for around
$150
Manhattan Prep GMAT Series
go to manhattan
Magoosh GMAT Prep
Provides extensive online resources, including practice questions, video explanations, and study schedules.
$149
–
$179
Magoosh GMAT Prep
go to magoosh
Kaplan GMAT Prep
Known for its thorough instructional materials and adaptive practice tests.
$499
–
$999
Kaplan GMAT Prep
go to kaplan
Princeton Review GMAT Prep
Features a variety of prep options, including self-paced and live online courses with extensive practice questions and tests.
$499
–
$1,199
Princeton Review GMAT Prep
go to princeton
GregMat+
Affordable and comprehensive GRE prep platform with video lessons, practice questions, and detailed explanations.
$8
per month subscription
GregMat+
go to gregmat+
Study Methodologies
  • Focused Review Sessions: Identify weak areas and target them with focused study sessions.
  • Timed Practice Tests: Simulate test conditions to improve time management.
  • Adaptive Learning Platforms: Utilize adaptive learning platforms for personalized study plans.
  • Peer Study Groups: Join or form study groups for collaborative learning and motivation.
  • Interactive Online Courses: Engage with interactive online courses for comprehensive preparation.
By considering the differences, pros and cons, and utilizing the right resources and study methodologies, you can choose the test that aligns best with your academic and career goals.