The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are two of the most prominent standardized tests used for graduate school admissions worldwide. While they serve similar overarching purposes—assessing the preparedness of applicants for graduate-level academic work—their structures, content, and specific applications differ significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial for prospective graduate students aiming to maximize their chances of admission into their desired programs.
Overview of GRE and GMAT
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), is a widely accepted standardized test for graduate school admissions. It measures a range of skills that are considered essential for success in graduate school, including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking. The GRE is versatile and is used for admissions across a broad spectrum of graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral programs in various fields.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
The GMAT, administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), is specifically designed for admission to graduate management programs, such as Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. The GMAT assesses analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning skills. Its focus on skills pertinent to business and management makes it the preferred choice for business schools worldwide.
Test Structure
GRE Structure
Sections of the GRE
The GRE comprises three main sections, each designed to evaluate different skill sets:
- Analytical Writing
- Analyze an Issue: Test-takers are required to write an essay responding to a general issue, articulating their views and supporting their position with reasons and examples.
- Analyze an Argument: This task involves critiquing an argument presented in a short passage. The test-taker must assess the argument’s logical soundness and provide a reasoned critique.
- Verbal Reasoning
- Reading Comprehension: This component involves reading passages and answering questions that test the ability to understand, analyze, and interpret written material.
- Text Completion: Test-takers fill in blanks within a passage using context clues to demonstrate their vocabulary and sentence comprehension skills.
- Sentence Equivalence: These questions require selecting two choices that complete a sentence in a way that produces equivalent meanings, testing both vocabulary and the ability to understand sentence structure.
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Arithmetic: Covers basic number operations and properties.
- Algebra: Includes solving equations, inequalities, and quadratic equations.
- Geometry: Focuses on properties and relations of geometric figures.
- Data Analysis: Tests interpretation and analysis of data, including statistics and probability.
Scoring of the GRE
- Analytical Writing: Scores range from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
- Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning: Each section is scored between 130 and 170 in one-point increments.
GMAT Structure
Sections of the GMAT
The GMAT consists of four main sections:
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
- Analysis of an Argument: Requires test-takers to critique the logical structure of an argument presented in a short passage.
- Integrated Reasoning (IR)
- Multi-Source Reasoning: Involves questions based on data from multiple sources, such as tables, graphs, and texts.
- Table Analysis: Requires interpretation and sorting of data in tables.
- Graphics Interpretation: Involves analysis of data presented in graphical form.
- Two-Part Analysis: Tests the ability to solve complex problems involving multiple steps.
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Problem Solving: Standard mathematical problems that require quantitative reasoning.
- Data Sufficiency: Unique to the GMAT, these questions test the ability to determine whether provided data is sufficient to answer a question.
- Verbal Reasoning
- Reading Comprehension: Similar to the GRE, this involves understanding and analyzing written passages.
- Critical Reasoning: Assesses the ability to evaluate arguments and plans.
- Sentence Correction: Tests grammar and effective communication skills.
Scoring of the GMAT
- Analytical Writing Assessment: Scores range from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
- Integrated Reasoning: Scores range from 1 to 8 in one-point increments.
- Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning: Each section is scored between 0 and 60, though scores above 51 are rare.
- Total Score: The total GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800 in 10-point increments.
Content Differences
Verbal Reasoning
GRE Verbal Reasoning
The GRE verbal section places significant emphasis on vocabulary and reading comprehension. It includes:
- Reading Comprehension: Passages followed by questions that test understanding, analysis, and interpretation.
- Text Completion: Fill-in-the-blank questions with multiple blanks to assess the ability to use context clues and vocabulary.
- Sentence Equivalence: Questions requiring the selection of two correct answers that complete a sentence, testing both vocabulary and sentence structure understanding.
GMAT Verbal Reasoning
The GMAT verbal section focuses more on grammar and reasoning rather than vocabulary. It includes:
- Reading Comprehension: Similar to the GRE, this involves understanding and analyzing written passages.
- Critical Reasoning: Questions that assess the ability to evaluate arguments and plans.
- Sentence Correction: Questions that focus on grammar and effective communication skills.
Quantitative Reasoning
GRE Quantitative Reasoning
The GRE quant section covers:
- Arithmetic: Basic number operations and properties.
- Algebra: Solving equations, inequalities, and quadratic equations.
- Geometry: Properties and relations of geometric figures.
- Data Analysis: Interpretation and analysis of data, including statistics and probability.
GMAT Quantitative Reasoning
The GMAT quant section includes:
- Problem Solving: Standard mathematical problems requiring quantitative reasoning.
- Data Sufficiency: Unique to the GMAT, these questions test the ability to determine if provided data is sufficient to answer a question.
Analytical Writing
GRE Analytical Writing
- Analyze an Issue: Writing an essay that takes a position on a given issue.
- Analyze an Argument: Writing an essay that critiques a given argument.
GMAT Analytical Writing
- Analysis of an Argument: Similar to GRE’s “Analyze an Argument,” requiring the critique of a given argument.
Integrated Reasoning (GMAT Only)
The GMAT includes an Integrated Reasoning section that the GRE lacks. It assesses:
- Multi-Source Reasoning: Questions based on data from multiple sources.
- Table Analysis: Interpretation and sorting of data in tables.
- Graphics Interpretation: Analysis of information in graphical form.
- Two-Part Analysis: Complex problems requiring multiple steps to solve.
Purpose and Use
GRE Use Cases
The GRE is widely accepted for a broad range of graduate programs, including:
- Master’s Degrees: In fields such as the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
- PhD Programs: In various academic disciplines.
- Business Schools: Many MBA programs now accept GRE scores as an alternative to the GMAT.
GMAT Use Cases
The GMAT is primarily used for admissions to:
- MBA Programs: Business schools around the world prefer the GMAT for its specific focus on skills relevant to business and management.
- Other Graduate Management Programs: Including Master of Finance, Master of Accounting, and more.
Test Preparation
GRE Preparation
Study Materials
- Official Guides: ETS provides official study guides and practice tests.
- Prep Courses: Numerous online and in-person courses tailored to the GRE.
- Books and Online Resources: A variety of publishers offer comprehensive prep books and online resources.
Study Tips
- Focus on Vocabulary: Building a strong vocabulary is crucial for the verbal section.
- Practice Essays: Regularly writing essays to improve analytical writing skills.
- Quantitative Practice: Consistent practice with a variety of math problems.
GMAT Preparation
Study Materials
- Official Guides: GMAC offers official study guides and practice exams.
- Prep Courses: Specialized GMAT prep courses are available both online and in-person.
- Books and Online Resources: Numerous publishers provide GMAT prep books and online materials.
Study Tips
- Integrated Reasoning Practice: Familiarizing oneself with the unique question types in this section.
- Quantitative Practice: Focusing on problem-solving and data sufficiency questions.
- Verbal Practice: Enhancing skills in critical reasoning and sentence correction.
Test-Taking Strategies
GRE Strategies
- Time Management: Allocating time wisely across sections to complete all questions.
- Skipping and Returning: Skipping difficult questions and returning to them if time permits.
- Answer Elimination: Using process of elimination to narrow down answer choices.
GMAT Strategies
- Pacing: Maintaining a steady pace, especially in the quantitative and verbal sections.
- Understanding Question Formats: Familiarity with data sufficiency and integrated reasoning formats.
- Practice Tests: Taking full-length practice tests to build stamina and timing.
Costs and Availability
GRE Costs
- Registration Fee: Approximately $205.
- Additional Services: Fees for additional score reports, rescheduling, and other services.
GMAT Costs
- Registration Fee: Approximately $250.
- Additional Services: Costs for extra score reports, rescheduling, and other services.
Test Availability and Scheduling
GRE Availability
- Frequency: The GRE is available throughout the year.
- Test Centers: Available at numerous test centers worldwide and as an at-home test.
- Scheduling: Flexible scheduling options with the ability to retake the test every 21 days, up to five times within a 12-month period.
GMAT Availability
- Frequency: The GMAT is also available throughout the year.
- Test Centers: Available at numerous test centers worldwide and as an at-home test.
- Scheduling: Flexible scheduling with the ability to retake the test every 16 days, up to five times within a 12-month period.
Acceptance and Recognition
GRE Acceptance
The GRE is widely recognized and accepted by a broad range of graduate programs. This includes:
- Global Acceptance: Accepted by thousands of graduate programs worldwide.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of fields, including arts and humanities, sciences, and business.
GMAT Acceptance
The GMAT is specifically recognized for business-related graduate programs. This includes:
- MBA Programs: Preferred by top business schools globally.
- Specialized Business Programs: Accepted for programs like Master of Finance, Master of Accounting, etc.
Preparing for the Exams
GRE Preparation Strategies
Analytical Writing
- Practice Essays: Regular practice by writing essays on various topics.
- Review Sample Essays: Analyzing high-scoring sample essays to understand effective writing techniques.
- Feedback: Seeking feedback from peers or instructors to improve writing skills.
Verbal Reasoning
- Vocabulary Building: Using flashcards, apps, and reading extensively to enhance vocabulary.
- Reading Comprehension Practice: Engaging with a variety of reading materials and practicing comprehension questions.
- Practice Tests: Taking practice tests to become familiar with the question formats and time constraints.
Quantitative Reasoning
- Math Review: Revisiting fundamental math concepts and practicing problem-solving.
- Practice Problems: Regularly solving a variety of quantitative problems to build familiarity and speed.
- Mock Tests: Taking timed practice tests to improve pacing and accuracy.
GMAT Preparation Strategies
Analytical Writing Assessment
- Argument Analysis: Practicing by critiquing sample arguments and writing essays.
- Reviewing High-Scoring Essays: Understanding what constitutes a high-scoring essay by analyzing examples.
- Feedback and Revision: Revising essays based on feedback to improve analytical writing skills.
Integrated Reasoning
- Understanding Formats: Familiarizing oneself with the various question formats in the Integrated Reasoning section.
- Data Analysis Practice: Practicing data interpretation and synthesis from multiple sources.
- Timed Practice: Taking timed practice questions to improve speed and accuracy.
Quantitative Reasoning
- Math Fundamentals: Strengthening understanding of basic math concepts.
- Problem-Solving Practice: Focusing on solving a wide range of quantitative problems.
- Data Sufficiency Practice: Practicing data sufficiency questions to master this unique GMAT format.
Verbal Reasoning
- Critical Reasoning Practice: Regularly practicing critical reasoning questions.
- Sentence Correction: Reviewing grammar rules and practicing sentence correction questions.
- Reading Comprehension: Engaging with complex texts and practicing comprehension questions.
Choosing Between GRE and GMAT
Factors to Consider
- Program Requirements: Check the specific requirements of the programs to which you are applying. Some may prefer one test over the other.
- Career Goals: Consider your long-term career goals. If you are certain about a career in business, the GMAT might be more suitable.
- Strengths and Weaknesses: Assess your strengths and weaknesses in the different sections of each test. Choose the test that aligns better with your skills.
- Test Preparation Resources: Consider the availability of preparation resources for each test and choose the one for which you can prepare more effectively.
Dual Acceptance
- Business Schools: Many business schools accept both GRE and GMAT scores. If you are applying to MBA programs, check if your target schools accept both tests.
- Flexibility: Some students take both tests to keep their options open. This approach requires more preparation but can provide flexibility in applications.