By Shruti P, MBA Admissions Consultant, – GOALisB. Featured in Forbes, Poets & Quants, Hindustan Times
With over a decade of experience in MBA admissions consulting, I have guided 5,000+ applicants to INSEAD, OXFORD, Cambridge, Wharton, ISB, IIMs, and other top business schools. As an MBA admission consultant, I specialize in GMAT vs GRE test selection and MBA application strategy.
This guide explores which test—GMAT or GRE—is the better choice for MBA admissions, using the latest insights from Harvard, Stanford, and Yale’s admissions data.
Many Indian applicants struggle to choose the right test for their MBA, business master’s, or STEM programs. With the latest GMAC and ETS reports in hand, let’s break down which test is best suited for you based on your strengths, career goals, and score trends.
The GMAT exam and the GRE exam are both acceptable for MBA admission process. We researched into the developments in the GMAT and the GRE and the scores at top business schools and shared criteria of how to choose the best exam for applicants.
Deciding between the GMAT and GRE for MBA applications can be tough. This guide will help you pick the right test for programs in India and abroad.
Overview of GMAT exam and the GRE exam
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): Designed for business school applicants. Tests analytical, quantitative, verbal skills, and data insights.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination): Used for many graduate programs, including business school. Tests analytical writing, quantitative, and verbal skills.
Why Choosing the Right Test Matters?
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examination) are two globally accepted tests for MBA and business master’s programs. However, they differ in their focus, difficulty, and acceptance by different business schools.
If you’re applying to an MBA program in India (ISB, IIMs) or top B-schools abroad, choosing the right test can impact your admission chances and scholarships.
Let’s explore the real data on Indian test-takers to help you decide.
Key Differences Between GMAT exam and the GRE
Acceptance of the GMAT exam and the GRE exam varies
GMAT: Accepted by over 7,700 programs at more than 2,400 business schools.
GRE: Accepted by 1,300 business schools.
GMAT is more widely accepted by business schools.
Test Structure of GMAT vs GRE exam
GMAT exam consists of:
3 sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights.
2 hours, 15 minutes.
Complete sections in any order.
No writing tasks.
GRE exam consists of:
5 sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing.
1 hour, 58 minutes.
Sections in a fixed order.
Includes 1 writing task.
GMAT focuses on business skills, while GRE is broader.
Time Per Question in the GMAT vs the GRE exam
GMAT: 2 minutes per question.
GRE: 1.6 minutes per question.
GMAT allows more time per question.
Scoring and Reporting of the GMAT exam vs GRE
GMAT:
Unofficial scores immediately after the test.
Official scores in 1-3 days.
Scores valid for 5 years.
Detailed performance insights.
GRE:
Official scores in 10-15 days.
Scores valid for 5 years.
Basic score report.
GMAT gives faster and more detailed score reports.
Score Sending GMAT vs GRE
GMAT: Send 5 free score reports within 48 hours of receiving your Official Score Report.
GRE: Select 4 programs to receive scores at no charge before the test.
GMAT offers more flexibility with score sending.
Choosing Between GMAT and GRE for MBA
MBA Programs:
Test-Taking Trends: What Indian Applicants Prefer
GMAT Trends for Indian Test-Takers
India accounts for 34% of global GMAT test-takers (2023).
Over 85% of Indian GMAT applicants send scores to MBA programs.
GMAT test-takers from India have a higher average quant score (50+).
GRE Trends for Indian Test-Takers
India is the 2nd largest GRE market after the US.
90%+ of GRE test-takers from India apply to MS/PhD programs.✔️ GRE scores are sent to a wider variety of graduate programs, including STEM and business schools.
Takeaway: If your goal is an MBA, GMAT is the preferred choice. If you are considering both MBA & MS options, GRE offers more flexibility.
GMAT vs GRE: Competitive Scores for Indian Applicants
Score Level | GMAT (India) | GRE (India) |
Average Score | 586 | 320 |
Competitive Score | 700+ | 328+ |
Top 10% Score | 740+ | 335+ |
GMAT scores for Indian test-takers are highly competitive, with top applicants targeting 700+.
GRE quant scores are strong among Indians (162-167 average), but verbal scores tend to be lower.
Takeaway: If you are aiming for top-tier MBA programs, a GMAT 700+ score makes you highly competitive.
Quant vs Verbal: Which Test Aligns with Your Strengths?
GMAT Quant vs GRE Quant for Indian Applicants
Aspect | GMAT Quant | GRE Quant |
Average Score (India) | 50 | 162 |
Competitive Score | 52+ | 167+ |
Focus Area | Logic & problem-solving | Computation-heavy |
Calculator Use | Not allowed (except Data Insights) | Allowed |
GMAT Quant focuses on business problem-solving and data-driven logic.
GRE Quant is more algebraic and formula-based (favoring engineers & math-heavy backgrounds).
GMAT Verbal vs GRE Verbal for Indian Applicants
Aspect | GMAT Verbal | GRE Verbal |
Average Score (India) | 40 | 150 |
Competitive Score | 44+ | 158+ |
Focus Area | Critical reasoning | Vocabulary-heavy |
Reading Comprehension | Business-focused | Literature-heavy |
GMAT Verbal is harder for Indian test-takers, as it focuses on logic & argument evaluation rather than vocabulary.
GRE Verbal is vocab-intensive, making it challenging for non-native English speakers.
Takeaway: If you’re stronger in logic & reasoning, GMAT Verbal is better. If you have a strong vocabulary, GRE Verbal may be easier.
Score-Sending Patterns: Where Do Indians Apply?
GMAT Score Sending by Indian Applicants
Top Destinations: USA, UK, Canada, ISB, IIMs (Executive & One-Year MBAs).
85%+ of Indian GMAT scores are sent to MBA programs.
GRE Score Sending by Indian Applicants
Top Destinations: USA (STEM MS), Canada, Germany, Australia.
90%+ of Indian GRE scores go to STEM programs, with few MBA applicants using GRE.
Takeaway: If you’re targeting Indian MBAs (ISB, IIMs) or US B-schools, GMAT is the better choice.
Key Differences: Exam Format & Difficulty
Aspect | GMAT | GRE |
Test Duration | 2h 15m | 1h 58m |
Scoring Range | 205-805 | 260-340 |
Math Focus | Business & logic | Algebra & calculations |
Verbal Focus | Critical reasoning | Vocabulary-heavy |
Calculator | Not allowed (except Data Insights) | Allowed |
Takeaway: GMAT is better for business thinking, while GRE is more generalist & flexible.
GMAT vs GRE: Which Test is Better Based on Your Weakness?
Choosing between the GMAT and GRE depends on which section you find more challenging. Here is a detailed guide for Indian test-takers to help decide which test aligns better with their strengths and weaknesses.
If You Are Weak in Vocabulary: GMAT is the Better Choice
GMAT Verbal focuses on logic, critical reasoning, and grammar rather than vocabulary.
GRE Verbal is vocabulary-heavy, requiring extensive memorization of difficult words.
Indian test-takers generally find GRE Verbal more challenging due to its reliance on high-level English words.
If You Are Weak in Verbal Overall (Reading, Critical Reasoning, Grammar): GRE is the Better Choice
GMAT Verbal is more difficult than GRE Verbal for most test-takers.
GMAT requires strong skills in critical reasoning and sentence correction, which can be challenging for those who struggle with verbal logic.
GRE Verbal is more straightforward, focusing on reading comprehension and vocabulary rather than logic-based reasoning.
If You Are Weak in Quant: GRE is the Better Choice
GRE allows a calculator, while GMAT does not (except in the Data Insights section).
GRE Quant is more formula-based, making it easier for test-takers who struggle with data interpretation and problem-solving.
GMAT Quant is more logic-heavy and requires strong mental math skills.
Final Decision: Which Test Should You Take?
Weakness | Best Test | Reason |
Weak in Vocabulary (but good in logic) | GMAT | Less reliance on word memorization |
Weak in Verbal Overall (logic + reading comprehension) | GRE | Easier verbal section with fewer logic-based questions |
Weak in Quant (math struggles) | GRE | Calculator allowed, more formula-based problems |
For those unsure about which test suits them best, scheduling a strategy session with GOALisB can provide clarity.
IIM Executive MBA and Top Indian B-Schools: More schools accept GMAT than GRE
ISB application process: Accepts both GMAT and GRE.
Comparison of the GMAT vs GRE Acceptance for One Year MBA programs in India:
Indian One Year MBA Program | GMAT Acceptance | GRE Acceptance |
ISB PGP | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIMA PGPX | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIMB EPGP | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIMC MBAEX | Accepts GMAT | Does Not Accept GRE |
IIML IPMX | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIMI EPGP | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIMK PGP BL | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
XLRI GMP | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIM Shillong PGPEX | Accepts GMAT | Does Not Accept GRE |
SPJIMR PGPM | Accepts GMAT | Does Not Accept GRE |
IIM Udaipur DEM | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
IIM Udaipur GSCM | Accepts GMAT | Accepts GRE |
Great Lakes | Accepts GMAT | Does Not Accept GRE |
GMAT or the GRE for MBA Programs Abroad:
Top Global Business Schools accept both GMAT and GRE. We analysed the class profiles for the class of 2025 at different leading MBA programs and discovered the trends of how many students submit the GMAT or the GRE scores.
At Harvard MBA, 69% of the Class of 2025 submitted GMAT scores and 34% submitted GRE scores, with some students submitting scores from both tests.
At Yale SOM full time MBA program, 37% of the class submitted GRE scores and the remaining GMAT scores.
At the Stanford MBA class of 2025, 61 percent of the class submitted GMAT scores and 39 percent submitted GRE scores, with some students submitting scores from both tests.
In the Chicago Booth Class of 2025, 66% of the applicants submitted the GMAT scores and 31% of the applicants submitted the GRE scores.
Not many programs disclose this information, however, it is clear that the GMAT scores are more widely considered by applicants for MBA applications.
Recommendations for choosing GMAT exam or the GRE exam:
Strengths and Test Strategy:
Quantitative Skills: GMAT may be better.
Verbal and Writing Skills: GRE might suit you more.
Flexibility and Future Plans:
General Graduate Programs: GRE offers broader acceptance.
MBA Focus: GMAT is widely accepted and preferred.
Practical Tips:
Practice Tests: Take both to see which you prefer.
Program Preferences: Check what your target schools prefer.
Competitiveness of your score:
Whether you choose the GMAT exam or the GRE exam will also depend on what the average GMAT scores across the programs are and how do you stand competitively with respect to the average scores in the past.
Comparison table of the GMAT average scores at leading business schools for the class of 2025
School Name | Average GMAT Score For The Class of 2025 |
Harvard MBA | 740 |
Wharton MBA | 728 |
Kellogg MBA | 731 |
UCLA Anderson | 709 |
Michigan Ross | 719 |
ISB PGP | 716 - 720 |
IIMA PGPX | 697 |
Yale SOM | 720 |
Duke Fuqua | 670 - 760 Range Mid 80% |
Tuck MBA | 726 |
Columbia MBA | 730 |
Chicago Booth | 728 |
On the other hand if we consider the average GRE scores, the average GRE scores accepted to these programs are as below:
Comparison of the average GRE scores in the class of 2025:
School Name | Average GRE Verbal Score For The Class of 2025 | Average GRE Quant Score For The Class of 2025 |
Harvard MBA | 163 | 163 |
Wharton MBA | 162 | 162 |
Kellogg MBA | 163 | 163 |
Michigan Ross | 160 | 162 |
Yale SOM | 164 | 166 |
Duke Fuqua | 306-330 Range Mid 80% | |
Chicago Booth | 162 | 163 |
IIMA PGPX | 324 overall GRE score | |
ISB PGP | 328 overall GRE score |
Choosing between GMAT and GRE depends on your strengths and goals. For MBA programs, GMAT is often the safer choice due to its wide acceptance. However, if you have strong verbal skills or want flexibility for other programs, consider the GRE. Research your target schools and take practice tests to decide the best fit for your MBA journey.
FAQ
What is the GMAT Exam (Focus Edition)?
The GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) is the latest version of the GMAT exam. It launched in late 2023 and has been the only available version since February 1, 2024. The scoring for the GMAT focus exam is on a scale of 205 to 805.
What is the GMAT Exam (10th Edition)?
The GMAT Exam (10th Edition) was the previous version of the GMAT exam. It launched in 2012 and was replaced by the GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) on February 1, 2024.
Is there an 11th Edition of the GMAT Exam?
Yes, the GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) is the 11th edition of the GMAT exam. It is named "Focus Edition" to highlight its emphasis on relevant business skills. From July 1 2024, this will be renamed the GMAT exam.
How long will scores from the GMAT Exam (10th Edition) be valid?
Scores from the GMAT Exam (10th Edition) are valid for five years from the test date.
How many times can I take the GMAT Exam in 2024-25?
You can take the GMAT exam up to five times in a rolling 12-month period and up to eight times in total during your lifetime. This includes all attempts across all editions of the exam, whether taken online or at a test center.
Is the GRE harder than the GMAT?
The difficulty of GRE vs GMAT depends on the test-taker’s strengths.
GRE is harder for verbal reasoning due to its extensive vocabulary requirements.
GMAT is harder for quant as it does not allow a calculator and tests data sufficiency & business problem-solving.
For applicants with a math background, GMAT may be easier, whereas those with strong vocabulary skills may find GRE easier.
Is GRE or GMAT better for an MBA?
GMAT is the preferred test for MBA programs since it is designed specifically for business school admissions.
GRE is accepted by many MBA programs, but GMAT is still the preferred choice for competitive MBA admissions.
Some business schools adjust GMAT and GRE score percentiles differently, so a high GMAT score may be more impactful for MBA admissions.
Does Harvard prefer GMAT or GRE?
Harvard Business School (HBS) accepts both the GMAT and GRE, but the majority of admitted students submit GMAT scores.
In recent years, over 70% of HBS admits have submitted GMAT scores, indicating a preference for GMAT among successful applicants.
While GRE is accepted, applicants with a strong GMAT score (730+) tend to be more competitive.
Is GMAT very tough?
The GMAT is considered challenging because of its adaptive nature and focus on logic-based problem-solving.
GMAT Quant is more difficult than GRE Quant due to data sufficiency questions and the lack of a calculator.
GMAT Verbal is highly logic-driven, requiring strong critical reasoning and sentence correction skills.
A GMAT score above 700 is competitive for top MBA programs, but with proper preparation, it is achievable.
Is the GRE or GMAT better for an MBA application?
If you are only applying to MBA programs, GMAT is the better choice as it aligns with business school expectations.
If you are considering multiple graduate programs (MBA + MS/PhD), GRE offers more flexibility.
MBA programs often give more weight to a strong GMAT score, as it is specifically designed for business education.
Is GMAT tougher than GRE?
GMAT is tougher in Quant, as it tests business math, logical reasoning, and problem-solving without a calculator.
GRE is tougher in Verbal, requiring high-level vocabulary knowledge and strong reading comprehension.
The GMAT is adaptive per question, making it more difficult than the GRE, which is adaptive by section.
Does Harvard accept GMAT or GRE for MBA?
Harvard Business School (HBS) accepts both GMAT and GRE, but GMAT is the preferred test among applicants. A high GMAT score (730+) increases competitiveness for admission. HBS evaluates both tests equally, but MBA admissions data suggests that more admits submit GMAT scores.
Data on GMAT vs GRE at Top Business Schools:
1. Harvard Business School (HBS)
63% of the Class of 2026 submitted GMAT scores.
41% of the class submitted GRE scores.
While HBS states that it has no preference, the majority of admitted students still submit GMAT scores.
2. Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB)
58% of the class submitted GMAT scores.
42% of the class submitted GRE scores.
Stanford GSB explicitly states: “We have no preference between GMAT and GRE exams.”
However, a higher percentage of applicants still submit GMAT scores.
3. Yale School of Management (SOM)
38% of incoming students submitted GRE scores.
The lower percentage of GRE test-takers suggests that GMAT remains the dominant choice at Yale SOM.
What Does This Data Mean for MBA Applicants?
GMAT remains the most popular test at top MBA programs.
Even at schools that officially have no preference (like Stanford), more students are admitted with GMAT scores.
At Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, GMAT still has a clear majority among MBA applicants.
GRE is gaining traction but is still in the minority.
A growing percentage of admits are submitting GRE scores, particularly for candidates from non-traditional backgrounds (e.g., humanities, social sciences).
However, most MBA admits still come from GMAT submissions.
Do universities prefer GMAT or GRE?
Some business schools may prefer GMAT for MBA programs as it is tailored to management education. GRE is more common for non-MBA graduate programs, such as STEM, economics, and social sciences. Some MBA programs claim to accept both equally, but admissions data often shows higher number of applicants with GMAT scores.
Not sure where to start? Schedule a call with an MBA admissions expert at GOALisB to understand which program and test score would suit your career goals better.
Author Bio:
Shruti Parashar is a leading MBA admissions consultant and the Founder of GOALisB, a top-ranked admissions consulting firm specializing in MBA and Executive MBA applications. With over a decade of experience, she has successfully guided 5,000+ applicants to admissions at Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, ISB, IIMs, and other top global business schools. Poets & Quants Consultant Profile: Shruti Parashar on Poets & Quants.
She has been featured in Forbes, Poets & Quants, Hindustan Times, The Week, and Silicon India, sharing insights on MBA admissions strategies, career transitions, and business education trends:
Poets & Quants: How to Use an MBA for a Career Switch
Forbes: 5 Trends in Business Education
Hindustan Times: ISB and Beyond - GOALisB's Personalized Guidance
Mid-Day: India's MBA Landscape Evolves
The Week: The Revival of the Study Abroad Sector
As a mentor at ISB and XLRI, Shruti specializes in career counselling and career transition coaching.
For personalized MBA application guidance, book a free strategy call today.