UPDATE: This post was originally published on April 1, 2020. It has been updated with new tips and information below.
If you’ve started the MBA application process, you know just how competitive it is to land a spot at one of the world’s top business school programs. Harvard Business School, for example, receives more than 8,000 applications for just 938 spots in its highly-coveted MBA program. This means that gaining any advantage you can in the process is critical.
Undoubtedly, one of the main factors that contributes to your profile’s competitiveness is your test score. What’s often less clear to applicants, however, is which test – GMAT or GRE – is most advantageous.
The short answer is that there is no short answer to the question! Rather, there are a number of factors you should take into consideration when determining which test is better for your application strategy. Keep reading to learn which factors we consider most important and how each can affect your overall competitiveness as an MBA applicant.
Which schools and programs are you considering?
First and foremost, we suggest that you verify what tests are accepted at your target schools. Though the GMAT is accepted at all business schools, the GRE is not accepted everywhere (though most schools do take it). Especially after COVID-19 caused numerous test centers to close and the GRE was the first test to move to an online format, there has been a drastic increase in the number of schools accepting the GRE in recent years. Nonetheless, you should still make sure you’re covered before taking a test you can’t use to apply to your dream school.
Second, if you are interested in dual degree programs, be aware of the fact that some of these programs require the GRE. Though we have had applicants take and submit both tests, this is undoubtedly a large time commitment. By verifying program requirements before you start studying, however, you can ensure you take the best possible test for your application.
Are you stronger in quant or verbal?
The GMAT and GRE are standardized tests that business schools use to determine applicants’ readiness for their programs.
While the GMAT is the more common test to take as it is accepted at all b-schools, the GRE is accepted at some but may be required for certain programs, especially if you are seeking a dual degree. (See this article on choosing which test is best for you.)
The GMAT Focus exam is 2 hours and 15 minutes long, with a 45-minute Quantitative Reasoning section, a 45-minute Verbal Reasoning section, and a 45-minute Data Insights section. This test suits those with strong quantitative reasoning and analytical skills.
The GRE, on the other hand, is 1 hour and 58 minutes long and consists of a 30-minute analytical writing section, two verbal reasoning sections (totaling 41 minutes for both sections), and two 35-minute quantitative sections (totaling 47 minutes for both sections).
In terms of language, the GRE includes more obscure words than the GMAT, which may be especially difficult for non-native English speakers. While the GMAT requires test-takers to move on once they have answered questions (except for 3 questions in each section, which you can return to and edit), the GRE allows you to save and return to questions during each section, which can reduce anxiety.
The one thing you may want to keep in mind is that online GRE tests have recently had a much higher rate of being canceled than online GMAT tests. (find out more here)TOP TIP: If you struggle with test anxiety, resources like Headspace’s test anxiety meditations can be great tools to add to your study schedule to ensure you perform your best on test day!
A note about the Executive Assessment
If you’re looking for a testing option that aligns with your busy professional schedule, the Executive Assessment (EA) might be the right fit for you. Originally designed for Executive MBA (EMBA) programs, the EA is increasingly being accepted by full-time MBA programs as well. Here’s everything you need to know about the test and whether it’s the right choice for your MBA journey.
What Is the Executive Assessment?
The Executive Assessment is a shorter, business-oriented test that evaluates the skills MBA programs value most: integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning. The test is just 90 minutes long and is structured to minimize stress for working professionals. It consists of three sections, each 30 minutes long:
- Integrated Reasoning: Measures your ability to analyze data and solve complex problems.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Tests basic math skills and data interpretation.
- Verbal Reasoning: Focuses on critical reasoning and reading comprehension.
Unlike other tests, the EA does not penalize for wrong answers and adapts its difficulty level based on your responses.
How Is the EA Different from the GMAT and GRE?
The EA is tailored for experienced professionals who may not have the time to prepare extensively for a test. Here’s how it differs from the GMAT and GRE:
- Time Commitment: The EA requires less preparation, often around 20-40 hours, compared to the sometimes 100+ hours needed for the GMAT or GRE.
- Ease: Some of our clients report that they find the Executive Assessment easier than the GMAT or GRE.
- Stress Factor: The EA is shorter and less stressful, with a scoring system that evaluates performance holistically.
Which Schools Accept the EA?
The EA was initially limited to EMBA programs but has gained traction among full-time MBA programs, especially those that value professional experience over traditional academic metrics. Some top schools that accept the EA include (check the full list here):
-
- Columbia Business School
- NYU Stern
- Duke Fuqua
- UCLA Anderson
- UVA Darden
Now that you know your options, let’s discuss the steps you need to ensure you get the best score possible!
My Admit Coach: Built on 10 Years of Proven Results. Designed for the Future.
Have you tried My Admit Coach, the world’s first MBA coaching platform trained on thousands of real admits?
My Admit Coach isn’t built on guesswork or scraped internet advice.
It’s built on a decade of real consulting data, proprietary frameworks, and tested strategies from the world’s #1-ranked MBA consultant.
Every feature inside, from essay outlines to story prompts, is rooted in what actually works.
You’ll access hundreds of sophisticated prompts to uncover your best stories, AI-driven feedback that mimics real adcom discussions, and instant, actionable guidance tailored to your target schools.
With Ellin’s AI clone always available to brainstorm, refine ideas, and help you find your voice, it’s like having a top-tier consultant by your side – all for less than $300.
