GRE vs GMAT: Which One to Take in 2025?

If you’re a student facing the endless grind of grad school prep, you’re probably dreading the classic GRE vs GMAT debate. Choosing between them can feel like picking your poison — neither is fun, but one might hurt a little less! But don’t worry — this decision isn’t as painful as it seems. There are clear differences between these two tests that can help you decide which one fits your goals. Let’s break down the GRE vs GMAT in 2025: what’s the difference, and which one should YOU take?

GRE vs GMAT: The Differences

The GMAT is primarily used by business schools for admissions, while the GRE is accepted by a wider range of graduate programs, including business and law schools. In addition, the two tests have differences in their formats, types of questions, policies for testing, and procedures for sending scores to schools.

What is the lowdown on the GRE?

The GRE is an exam administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) that many graduate schools, including business and law schools, use as part of their admissions process. Its purpose is to assess your verbal and quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing abilities.

You have the option to retake the GRE up to five times in any 12 months, but you must wait at least 21 days between attempts. If you decide to take the test multiple times, you may select which scores you want to send to the schools you are applying to.

The format of the GRE

To clarify, the test has two sections: Analytical Writing and Verbal Reasoning. In the Analytical Writing section, you will complete two writing tasks that each last for 30 minutes. One task involves developing your argument, while the other requires you to evaluate someone else’s argument.

The Verbal Reasoning section has two parts, with 20 questions in each part, and lasting for 30 minutes.

The Quantitative Reasoning part of the test evaluates your basic math skills. It is divided into two sections. The questions may come in different forms, such as multiple choice with single or multiple answers, numeric input, or quantitative comparison. The areas covered include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

In the Quantitative Reasoning section, you are allowed to utilize an on-screen calculator while taking the test. You have the option to modify your previous answers, and label questions for review if you intend to revisit them later.

GMAT 101: What You Need to Know in 2025

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a widely used entrance exam for MBA programs and business schools around the world. Administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the GMAT measures your reasoning and critical thinking skills — key indicators of success in top graduate business programs.

You can take the GMAT at a test center up to five times within a 12-month period, with a lifetime limit of eight attempts. If you opt for the online version of the GMAT, you’re allowed one retake.

📝 GMAT Format and Sections

The GMAT format varies slightly depending on whether you take it at a test center or online. The in-person test consists of four sections, and you can choose the order in which you complete them based on your strengths:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): You’ll have 30 minutes to analyze and critique an argument.
• Integrated Reasoning: This section tests your ability to evaluate data from multiple sources, combining numerical and verbal reasoning in mostly multiple-choice questions.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Multiple-choice questions assessing your math skills and ability to interpret data.
• Verbal Reasoning: Tests your comprehension, analysis, and evaluation of written material.

During the GMAT, you are allowed to use a basic online calculator only for the Integrated Reasoning section. Keep in mind that you cannot skip and return to questions or change your answers during the GMAT.

What does a computer-adaptive test mean?

The GRE vs GMAT debate does not apply when it comes to tech since both exams utilize adaptive testing technology. In the GMAT, the level of difficulty for each question in a section is determined based on your performance on the previous question. If you answered correctly, the subsequent question will be more challenging. The GRE adjusts the difficulty of each section based on the previous one, and if you answer a question incorrectly, the following question will be easier. Additionally, you have the option to change your answers. If you’re wondering just how hard it is to get into top programs like Columbia, this Columbia MBA acceptance rate guide breaks down the latest data, applicant trends, and what it really takes in 2025.

GRE vs GMAT: which one is easier?

It is generally considered that the quantitative section of the GRE is easier than the GMAT because it includes more geometry and allows the use of a calculator, while the GMAT has more logical reasoning questions.

Compared to the GMAT, the GRE verbal section usually involves more challenging vocabulary. Some individuals find the GMAT verbal section to be a bit simpler.

Tips to Solve the GRE vs GMAT Debate

While many MBA applicants choose the GMAT, most business schools now also accept GRE scores. This gives you the flexibility to pick the test that best highlights your strengths. Keep these key factors in mind as you decide:

🔸 Undecided on your program? If you’re unsure about your graduate path or want to keep your options open, the GRE is a great choice — it’s accepted for a wide range of graduate degrees. However, if you’re set on business school, the GMAT can signal your dedication to the field.

🔸 Check school requirements. Some schools accept both tests, but it’s always smart to confirm admissions policies. Contact an admissions representative if possible and ask if they have a preference.

🔸 Consider your strengths. If you’re stronger in math, the GMAT could be your best bet to showcase those skills. If you excel in writing and analysis, the GRE might be a better fit. However, non-native English speakers may find the GRE’s challenging vocabulary a hurdle.

🔸 Test format matters. The GRE allows you to skip and review questions, which can be a confidence booster if you like flexibility.

🔸 Practice both tests. Take a full-length practice test for each, simulating real exam conditions. Scoring them will give you a clearer sense of which test feels more comfortable and aligns with your strengths.

🔸 Score policies differ. With the GRE, you can choose which scores to send to schools. The GMAT, however, sends all scores, although many programs consider only your highest score.

🔸 Consider future employers. Some companies, especially in consulting and finance, require GMAT scores from applicants. Taking the GMAT before you start business school could save you from scrambling during a job search.

What to do if standardized tests are optional?

If you’re applying to a test-optional school, it’s still worth considering taking an entrance exam. Having high scores can showcase your academic abilities and potentially make you eligible for scholarships. However, if you decide not to include your GRE or GMAT scores, make sure you focus extra attention on other parts of your application to make them stand out.

In conclusion

That concludes our exploration of the differences between the GRE and GMAT. As you’ve seen there are pros and cons to both tests and your choice really depends on your goals. No pressure, but if you don’t make the right decision it’s probably not the end of the world. Don’t panic or anything! However, if you do your research and consider all of your options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. What’s the takeaway here? If you want to get into grad school don’t be a slacker; do your homework. So don’t stand around scratching your head trying to decide which test is right for you — why not sign up for a free admissions consultation with someone who knows what they’re talking about? .When you’re ready to polish your MBA application essays, check out this specialized editing service designed to help you stand out.

With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab. As a tenure-track professor, Philippe spent a decade teaching and serving on several graduate admission committees at UNC-Chapel Hill before turning to full-time consulting. With more than seven years of experience as a graduate school admissions consultant, Philippe has stewarded the candidate journey across multiple master’s and Ph.D. programs and helped hundreds of students get admitted to top-tier graduate programs all over the world.

Originally published at https://admit-lab.com on April 7, 2023.