Home › GRE vs GMAT
GREvsGMAT
GRE vs GMAT: Which Should You Take?
Take the GRE for the widest range of graduate programmes; take the GMAT Focus if you're targeting competitive MBA programmes that prefer it.
▶ Try a free GRE mock test⚡ Quick answer: Take the GRE for the widest range of graduate programmes; take the GMAT Focus if you're targeting competitive MBA programmes that prefer it. Both are accepted by many of the same universities, so the best test is the one that fits your destination, your strengths and your timeline — compare them below.
GRE vs GMAT at a glance
| GRE | GMAT | |
|---|---|---|
| Used for | Most Master's & PhD programmes | MBA & business Master's |
| Score | 260–340 (+ AWA 0–6) | 205–805 (Focus Edition) |
| Maths | Calculator allowed | No calculator (Quant) |
| Length | ~1h 58m | ~2h 15m |
| Best for | Broad grad-school options | Top business schools |
Choose GRE if…
- You're applying to a wide range of Master's or PhD programmes, not only business.
- You want one test accepted by most graduate schools, including many MBA programmes.
- You're stronger at vocabulary-based verbal reasoning and like having a calculator for the maths.
- You're keeping your options open across several fields.
Choose GMAT if…
- You're focused on competitive MBA or business Master's programmes, some of which still prefer the GMAT.
- You're strong at data and quantitative reasoning and comfortable working without a calculator.
- You want a score that business schools have benchmarked for years.
Cost, results & validity
The GRE costs about US$220; the GMAT Focus Edition about US$275–300. Both scores are valid for 5 years. Most business schools now accept both — check each programme's stated preference before deciding.
Prices vary by country and change over time — always confirm the current fee and accepted test on the official test and university websites.
Frequently asked questions
- Is GRE easier than GMAT?
- Neither is universally easier — it depends on your strengths. Take the GRE for the widest range of graduate programmes; take the GMAT Focus if you're targeting competitive MBA programmes that prefer it.
- Which is more accepted, GRE or GMAT?
- Take the GRE for the widest range of graduate programmes; take the GMAT Focus if you're targeting competitive MBA programmes that prefer it.
- How much do GRE and GMAT cost, and how long are scores valid?
- The GRE costs about US$220; the GMAT Focus Edition about US$275–300. Both scores are valid for 5 years. Most business schools now accept both — check each programme's stated preference before deciding.
- Can I prepare for both GRE and GMAT for free?
- Yes — LandingPrep has free full-length mock tests, strategy lessons and a band/score checker for both GRE and GMAT, so you can try each format before you pay for the real test.