GMAT vs GRE Advice

Hi everyone,

I'm a 3rd year undergrad at an Ivy target, and I'm planning to take the GMAT / GRE for deferred MBA programs. I am trying to figure out if I should study and take the GMAT or GRE. I know this topic has been discussed a few times on this forum, but I still haven't been able to find a definitive answer on what the advantages and disadvantages of taking one test over the other are. Some people say the GMAT math section is harder than the GRE math section, and some say the GRE is "easier". I have not taken any practice tests for either, so I don't know what my personal preference is or which test is more preferred for my testing style.

The only relevant data points I have is that I strongly preferred the ACT over the SAT, scoring a perfect score on the ACT math section. I am only interested in MBA programs and not interested in any other graduate programs. How can I figure out if I should take the GMAT or the GRE? Most MBA programs accept both, but can someone please explain why I should take one or the other given my preferences? Do employers post-MBA really have a preference for the GMAT? What makes a person score better on the GRE over the GMAT, or the other way around?

Comments (5)

  • Business School in CorpStrat
13d 

Still got IB interviews at the MBA level (a few MMs and high paying boutiques) with a very mediocre GRE score (I'm not an URM) - <320.

Only one firm asked for a score and it didn't get me screened out. Still made it to their superday.

12d 
Isaiah_53_5 💎🙌💎🙌💎, what's your opinion? Comment below:

I like the fact that with the GRE you can use a calculator, but with the GMAT you have to do the math yourself. 

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee

  • Intern in IB-M&A
12d 

I'd take the practise test and see. But if you don't want to, take the GRE if you are strong in Verbal: GRE Math is pretty easy so if you have a 36 on math on the ACT, you have a good shot at getting 165+ on math. Then if you can break 160 on verbal you have a decent score in your hands.

  • 1
11d 
alphadeltasigma, what's your opinion? Comment below:

For an MBA, strongly recommend you take the GMAT. Some firms may ask about your score but don't worry as there's no harm no foul, if you do well it's a bonus. If you did avg. but still went to a semi-good school you're fine. GRE is looked down up as it's more for those going towards soc sci / arts type grad programs. GMAT can be a solid bonus to your app if you do well, GRE could raise some red flags. Strongly recd sticking with the GMAT if you're sure on an MBA. Just show your highest score.

  • 1
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  • Intern in IB - Cov
10d 

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