So, you’re setting your sights on graduate school! But wait, there’s a hurdle to jump first: the standardized test. Depending on your program, you might be facing either the GRE or the GMAT. But which one is the right beast to tackle? Fear not, intrepid student, for this guide will equip you to choose the test that best suits your strengths.

The Admission Gatekeepers

• GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): This test is your passport to most graduate programs, including those in the humanities and the social sciences, as well as a growing number of business schools.
• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): This exam is the key to unlocking the doors of most business schools. It’s specifically designed to assess the skills needed to thrive in an MBA program.

Test Structure Showdown

• GRE: Buckle up for a 3-part adventure:
  • Analytical Writing: Flex your writing muscles in a 30-minute essay.
  • Verbal Reasoning: Two 41-minute sections test your vocabulary, reading comprehension, and critical thinking.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Two 47-minute sections assess your math skills, with a focus on problem-solving and interpreting data.
• GMAT: This test throws three 45-minute sections your way:
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Similar to the GRE, this section assesses your math skills and data analysis abilities.
  • Verbal Reasoning: Test your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary skills.
  • Data Insights: This unique section throws a mix of data analysis, reading comprehension, and graphical reasoning your way.

Scoring Strategies

• GRE: Both Verbal and Quantitative sections are scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.
• GMAT: The GMAT has a single, composite score ranging from 200 to 800 in 10-point increments.

Cost and Time Commitment

• Both tests have registration fees: $220 for the GRE and $250 for the GMAT.
• Factor in testing time, too: The GRE clocks in at just under 2 hours, while the GMAT takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Score Validity

The good news: GRE and GMAT scores are both valid for 5 years.

Comparing Apples and Oranges (or should we say Test Scores?)

While both tests assess your academic abilities, they have distinct focuses. Here’s a breakdown:

• GMAT: Ideal for those with strong quantitative and analytical skills. You’ll excel at interpreting data and solving complex problems.
• GRE: A better fit for students with a broader range of strengths. The verbal section leans more towards vocabulary, while the math section is generally considered more straightforward and allows calculator use.

The Ultimate Test: Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to pick your test is to take a practice test for each. This will help you gauge your strengths and weaknesses and identify which exam feels like a better fit. Remember, graduate school admissions are competitive, so don’t go in blind!

Beyond the Scores

While the GRE or GMAT score is an important piece of the application puzzle, it’s not the whole picture. Research your target schools to understand their score requirements. Additionally, focus on building a strong application with stellar grades, impactful essays, and relevant experience.

What are you waiting for? Conquer your chosen test, craft a compelling application, and open the doors to your dream graduate program!