Are you considering pursuing a graduate degree or MBA? If so, you must have heard about the GMAT or GRE—Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
Everything You Need To Know About GMAT And GRE
These standardized exams are a crucial part of the application process for many graduate programs. If your desirable program or institution does not make these exams a requirement, writing them would put you ahead in the competitive world of graduate admissions. To help you navigate through this crucial step, let us address some of the most frequently asked questions about GMAT and GRE.
1. Which should I choose, the GMAT or the GRE?
The choice between the GMAT and GRE depends on your target programs. The GMAT is specifically designed for assessing skills relevant to management and business administration, which makes it a requirement for MBA and other Business-related graduate studies. Read on what to expect in GMAT exams
The GRE is more versatile and is accepted for a wide range of graduate programs, not just business schools. Also, if you’re considering multiple types of graduate programs, the GRE could save you time and money. Read on what to expect in GRE exams.
Although many business schools and MBA programs traditionally require the GMAT, an increasing number now accept the GRE as well. The decision on which to write depends heavily on the admission requirements of your target institution for your intended program.
2. Is the GMAT hard or easy?
How difficult the GMAT is depends on several factors including your background, preparation, and aptitude for the skills the exam accesses. The GMAT is a challenging test. However, with adequate preparation, and the right approach you can achieve a good score.
3. How long are the GMAT and GRE scores valid?
GMAT scores are valid for 5 years, while GRE scores are also valid for 5 years.
However, keep in mind that individual schools may have their policies regarding the acceptable age of test scores, so always check with your desired programs for their specific requirements.
4. How hard is it to get a 700 on the GMAT?
GMAT scoring ranges from 200 to 800. To gain admission into one of the top business schools. A score of 700 is the common benchmark. Achieving this score is challenging, but it is certainly attainable with dedication and effective preparation.
The GMAT consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative, and Verbal. To achieve a score of 700, here is the baseline of what your performance should be:
- A balanced score in your Quantitative and verbal sections would be appealing to admission committees. As Quant focuses on your math, and problem-solving skills, a score in the mid-40s or higher (approximately 47 or above) is considered strong. Do note that scoring 47 and above puts you in the 70th percentile or higher on the Quant section.
- In the Verbal section which evaluates your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills, a score in the mid-30s or higher (around 37 or above) is considered strong. This puts you in the 80th percentile or higher on the Verbal section.
- Scoring high on the Analytical Writing Assessment and Integrated Reasoning sections can also boost your overall score and demonstrate your well-rounded skills.
To reach a score of 700, you need a well-structured study plan, enough practice, and dedication. To improve your chances, you should consider investing in preparatory materials, courses, or a personal tutor.
5. Can I retake the GMAT or GRE if I’m not satisfied with my score?
If you are not satisfied with your score, you can retake both the GMAT and GRE. However, there are some restrictions you should be aware of:
GMAT: You can retake the GMAT every 16 calendar days, but no more than five times in 12 months. Keep in mind that all your GMAT scores from the past five years will be visible to the schools you apply to.
GRE: You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within a continuous rolling 12-month period. Like the GMAT, all your GRE scores from the past five years will be visible to schools.
6. Is there a passing score for the GMAT or GRE?
The GMAT and GRE tests do not have a passing or failing score. Instead, they provide a scaled score, and the importance of your score depends on the requirements and competitiveness of the programs you are applying to.
To increase your chances of getting admitted, your score should be comparable to the average scores of students who have been admitted to the programs you are targeting.
7. GMAT vs GRE – Which is Easier?
Both the GMAT and GRE are similar in many ways, and the perceived difficulty of one over the other largely depends on the test taker’s background. The main difference between the two exams is that the GRE does not have an Integrated Reasoning section.
The GMAT places a strong emphasis on quantitative and critical reasoning skills, which can be particularly challenging for those who do not have a strong math background. Additionally, the Quantitative and Verbal sections are adaptive, which means that the difficulty level of the questions adjusts based on the test taker’s performance.
In contrast, the GRE’s Quantitative Reasoning section covers high school mathematics concepts, which makes it less challenging for individuals with lower levels of mathematical proficiency than what is required for the GMAT.
The Verbal Reasoning section, on the other hand, evaluates reading comprehension, critical thinking, and vocabulary, and is often perceived as more language-focused.
Therefore, the GMAT’s Quantitative Reasoning is considered more challenging than the GRE’s, and the GRE’s Verbal Reasoning is considered more difficult than the GMAT’s. Ultimately, which exam is more difficult depends on the test taker’s background and strengths.
8. Can I Use Both GMAT And GRE Scores In My Application?
Some schools allow you to submit both GMAT and GRE scores in your application, but not all do. Check the admission policies of each school you’re applying to. If you have strong scores on both tests, submit both. can potentially strengthen your application.
In summary, your choice between the GMAT and GRE should align with your study goals and your institution’s admission requirements. Research thoroughly and consult the specific requirements of your chosen programs before registering.
With diligent planning and preparation, not only will you pass your exams, but you will also open doors to a wealth of professional opportunities in your academic journey.