GMAT or GRE (or both)?

For target master's programs like Oxbridge or Imperial/LSE/LBS, will your application be competitive with only GRE or only GMAT? Is taking BOTH optimal for a competitive master's application?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

For target master's programs like Oxbridge, Imperial, LSE, or LBS, the choice between GMAT and GRE can depend on the specific requirements and preferences of each program. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Program Requirements: Check the specific requirements of each program. Some programs may explicitly state a preference for either the GMAT or GRE, while others may accept both equally.

  • Competitiveness: Both the GMAT and GRE are widely accepted by top business schools and master's programs. Having a strong score in either test can make your application competitive. However, certain programs or industries might have a slight preference for one over the other.

  • Taking Both Tests: While taking both the GMAT and GRE is not typically necessary, it could potentially demonstrate your versatility and commitment. However, it is more important to excel in one test rather than spreading your efforts thin across both.

  • Application Strategy: Focus on achieving a high score in the test that aligns best with your strengths and the requirements of your target programs. Additionally, ensure that other aspects of your application, such as essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities, are strong.

In summary, either the GMAT or GRE can make your application competitive for top master's programs, provided you achieve a high score. Taking both tests is not usually required, and excelling in one is generally sufficient.

Sources: Accepted to 2 Deferred Enrollment MBA progams, can I just accept both?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/influence-of-double-major-on-mba-admissions?customgpt=1, Advice for Princeton MFin Applicants, Applied 19x to Elite MBA programs.....this is what I learned, Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I don't think anyone takes both. Just excel in one. They are very similar exams. 

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