Which exam is more suitable for an MBA: the GMAT or the GRE? I'm undecided on which test to choose.

When applying for an MBA program, candidates can choose between two standardized tests: the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).

The GMAT is the preferred exam for most MBA programs, as it is specifically designed to assess skills relevant to success in business school. On the other hand, the GRE is less commonly accepted for MBA admission, but it could be a suitable option for candidates with a more creative and diverse academic background or for those considering multiple types of graduate programs apart from an MBA. In recent years, the GRE increased its market share at the expense of the GMAT, though.

While admissions counselors consider factors beyond test scores when evaluating applicants, they place considerable weight on GMAT or GRE scores. These scores indicate an individual's potential to thrive and perform well in a graduate school environment.

We have the best resources on both GMATClub and GRE Prep Club. Even though a student might have a great score thanks to the help of a robust prep company - we had a stellar of GMAT Focus 805 score just a few days ago How to Get a Perfect 805 GMAT Focus Score. I firmly believe that a great score can be achieved with free resources and attending a great community such as the GMATClub. Thanks to your discipline, consistency, practice, and the assistance of experts such as bb, Bunuel, GMATNinja, Karishma, and all the rest of the crew, you will be perfectly able to overcome any obstacle.


GMAT - Relevant resources

QUANT

• GMAT MATH BOOK in downloadable PDF format
• Ultimate GMAT Quantitative Preparation Guide
• All You Need for the GMAT Quantitative (Math) Section!
• GMAT Syllabus for Focus Edition
• The Definitive GMAT Study Plan - 2024 Edition
• GMAT Club Error Log - The Best Tool for GMAT Preparation!
• Best GMAT Practice Tests - [Overview GMAT Focus Tests] - 23 ONLINE FREE (FULL LENGTH) GMAT CAT MOCKS
• Specifically for the new section Data Insights, go for Data Insights with GMAT Ninja - Get Essential Skills to Ace Data Insights GMAT Questions

VERBAL

RC and CR (you should know that SC has faded out), your one-stop strategy/resources should be

• Reading Comprehension Resource Collection
• Start Here For CR: GMAT Ninja's Critical Reasoning Resource Collection

GRE - Relevant resources

• Free Materials for the GRE General Exam - Where to get it!!
• Shorter GRE - PREPARATION STRATEGY
• Study GRE Vocab in KAR³L, Support Learning Research, and Earn Rewards!
• Prep Club for GRE - Resource Center
• Shorter GRE-The BEST FREE Practice Tests and Questions Banks

the GMAT or the GRE for MBA
features and benefits	GMAT Focus	GRE
Scores	205–805 - NO analytical writing	130–170 for verbal and quantitative reasoning, 0–6 for analytical writing - Issue Essay
Sections	Data Insights, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning	Analytical writing, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning
Format	In-person or online	In-person or online
Fee	$300 online, $275 in person	$220
Length	2 hours and 15 minutes	1 hour and 58 minutes
Score Validity	5 years	5 years
Suitable for	Logical, analytical thinkers with solid math and quantitative skills	Thinkers with a strong vocabulary and a propensity for geometry
Worst for	Who do better with textbook-style math questions and a calculator	Non-native English speakers and students whose math skills outpace their language skills

GMAT - Positives and negatives


The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test designed to assess a candidate's quantitative, verbal, and reading skills. It is widely used as an entrance exam for graduate business school programs. While not mandatory for all programs, the GMAT is accepted by the majority of in-person and online MBA programs as part of the admission process. Additionally, some programs offer waivers for applicants with significant professional experience and strong academic performance, allowing them to bypass the GMAT requirement.

Benefits of the GMAT

1) It can be so overwhelming to navigate the MBA admissions process. The GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, is accepted by virtually every MBA program globally, making it an essential step in pursuing your dreams. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, over 5,000 graduate programs worldwide consider GMAT scores as part of their admission process. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and many resources are available to support you.

2) I understand the importance of the text you provided. The GMAT is designed for business school graduate programs, emphasizing quantitative and analytical reasoning. These skills are highly relevant for success in an MBA program and as a business professional.

3) The new GMAT Focus Edition allows test takers to review and edit their answers within each section. This means you can skip questions you are unsure about and come back to them later, which can be really helpful. You are also allowed to change up to three responses per section, giving you the chance to correct any mistakes you may have made.


Drawbacks of the GMAT

1) The quantifiable segment poses a significant challenge: Many educators assert that the quantitative section of the GMAT presents more intricate problems than its counterpart in the GRE. While both assessments assess capabilities in solving equations and interpreting data, the GMAT demands higher critical thinking and analytical skills.

2) You are limited to making changes to your answers, with the ability to go back and modify up to 3 responses per section.


GRE - Positives and negatives

1) The GRE is more versatile since it's accepted in a variety of graduate programs, not just business schools. This makes it a good choice for students who are undecided or pursuing non-MBA programs, as it can save them time and money.

2) For the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections of the GRE, test-takers have the ability to skip and change answers, as well as choose which questions to answer first. The testing software keeps track of skipped questions for easy access later.

3) The GRE is cheaper compared to the GMAT. It costs $220 whether taken in-person or online, making it $55 or $80 less expensive than the GMAT, depending on the mode of administration. This cost difference could be significant for students who need to take the test multiple times.

Drawbacks of the GRE

1) It can be challenging for non-native English speakers: The verbal section of the GRE may be difficult for non-native English speakers because it includes obscure vocabulary that even native English speakers may find challenging. The analytical writing section can also be tough.

2) Not universally accepted: Although the GRE is becoming more widely accepted at business schools, some programs still mandate GMAT scores.



Should you take the GMAT or the GRE?

Before starting an MBA program, there are several factors to consider. You need to decide which test to take, where to apply, and how to finance your MBA.

The first step in choosing a test is to check with your school, as not all MBA programs accept the GRE test. Therefore, the decision of which test to take may not be up to you.

If your chosen school accepts both tests, it's important to consider your strengths. If you are strong in math, logic, and reasoning, the GMAT may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you have a strong English vocabulary and prefer a more flexible testing format, the GRE might be a better choice.

It is also important to consider your career goals when choosing between the GMAT and the GRE. Some top investment, banking, and consulting firms require GMAT scores for candidate consideration.


Resources: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/gmat-gre ... 38310.html
https://gmatclub.com/
https://gre.myprepclub.com/