GRE vs. GMAT For MBA: Which Test Should You Take?

When it comes to applying to business school, standardized testing is still one of the most fraught and debated elements of the process. For years, the GMAT was the gold standard for MBA admissions.

But over the past decade, the GRE has gained significant traction – and not just among applicants with nontraditional backgrounds or who may be considering dual degrees. For the Harvard Business School MBA Class of 2026, 41% of admitted students submitted GRE scores.

So, the question is: which one should you take?

The truth is that there’s no universally “better” test. However, there is very likely a better test for you, depending on your strengths, career goals, and target schools. The key is understanding how each exam is perceived, how it aligns with your profile and strengths, and how it fits into your broader application strategy. We strongly recommend starting with diagnostic tests for both. See where you feel more comfortable – and compare your performance across sections.

Check out Fortuna & P&Q’s video on this topic; it’s had nearly 40k views!

GRE vs. GMAT: Differences in Format, Cost, & Scoring

While both exams assess verbal reasoning, quantitative ability, and analytical thinking, the GRE and GMAT differ in structure, style, and use cases. Understanding these differences is essential to making the right choice for your MBA goals.

Here’s how the two tests compare on the fundamentals:

Test Structure & Length

The GMAT runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the new GRE clocks in at 1 hour and 58 minutes. Both are significantly shorter than their previous versions but still assess core analytical and reasoning skills.

Content Differences

The GMAT emphasizes data interpretation and structured reasoning, including a verbal section focused on critical reasoning and reading comprehension.

The GRE covers reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence—so strong vocabulary helps, but analytical reading is still a key skill.

Scoring Scale

GMAT: The overall score ranges from 205-805 in 10-point increments. Since late 2023/early 2024, the old benchmark of 700+ no longer applies; instead, aim for a score that aligns with top percentiles (e.g., 645 ≈ 87th percentile, which is the equivalent to a 700 score on the old test). The average GMAT score for the M7 is around 685.

GRE: Scores are reported separately for verbal and quant (130–170 each), with no official combined total. A combined score of 320+ is often seen as competitive, but the breakdown is important, because schools are most concerned about quant skills as a signal of academic readiness.

Schools will look closely at the breakdown of your verbal and quant scores, and will want to ensure that you have solid quantitative skills to handle the core analytical curriculum. This is particularly true if your undergrad shows little evidence of quant courses such as statistics or data analysis.

Equally the Verbal section is a great way to showcase your critical reasoning skills and mastery of language.

Test Fees

As of 2025:

GMAT costs $275 at test centers and $300 online
GRE costs around $220 (varies by location)
Additional fees apply for rescheduling, sending scores to more than five schools, or ordering score reports.

Program Flexibility

The GMAT is designed specifically for business schools. The GRE is accepted not only for MBA programs but also for a wide range of graduate degrees, making it an ideal option for candidates considering dual-degree programs such as JD/MBA or MPP/MBA.

Test-Taking Flexibility

The GRE allows you to skip, review, and revise all questions within each section, giving test-takers more control over their pacing and performance.

By contrast, the GMAT is computer-adaptive by question, meaning the difficulty adjusts in real time based on your responses. Test takers cannot skip a question, but the Question Review & Edit feature allows changes to up to three answers per section.

If you’re not sure which is right for you, we recommend taking a full-length diagnostic of both. Additionally, talking to an expert can be very helpful. “Understanding your starting scores is only one piece of the puzzle. I try to understand your strengths and weaknesses, what you enjoy, how you learn best, and the constraints of your timeline in order to recommend the test that best suits your needs,” says Bryce Warwick, President of Warwick Strategies. The exam that plays to your natural strengths – verbal, quant, or format – will often give you a better score with less prep time.

How Schools View The GMAT vs. The GRE

All top MBA programs now accept both the GRE and GMAT and usually profess that they are equally open to both. However, as the GMAT was specifically designed for business schools and the GRE is a broader test, some admissions officers may have a slight preference for the GMAT. But the fact that average GRE scores of admitted applicants are typically a little lower than the GMAT equivalent implies a greater flexibility.

What Score Is “Good Enough”

Your score needs to be competitive in context – both on its own and as part of your broader academic and professional profile. As a baseline, a score that is at or above the average for the school you are targeting will be competitive.

Keep in mind that a 645 GMAT or a 325 GRE might look strong on the surface – but if your quant percentile is low, it could raise concerns about your ability to keep up in a data-driven curriculum. Conversely, a balanced or high quant score, even with a slightly lower total, might reassure the adcom of your academic readiness.

Strategic Fit: When One Test May Be Better Than the Other

Both the GMAT and GRE are widely accepted, but depending on your background, goals, and testing strengths, one may be a more strategic fit than the other.

Here’s when one exam may give you a competitive edge:

Choose the GMAT if:

You’re targeting consulting or finance. Top firms might ask for GMAT scores during recruiting.
You have strong quant and problem-solving skills. The GMAT’s data-focused format may let you demonstrate analytical fluency.
Your profile could benefit from signaling MBA intent. Submitting a GMAT score can reinforce your business focus.

Choose the GRE if:

You’re considering dual-degree programs. The GRE is accepted across disciplines (e.g., JD/MBA, MPP/MBA).
You’re stronger in vocabulary and memorization. The GRE’s format may favor humanities or liberal arts backgrounds.
Your quant skills are a little weaker – better for your percentile score to be compared to other GRE test takers whose grad school goals don’t require a stellar quant score.

While some schools are test-optional or offer waivers, a competitive test score remains one of the best ways to strengthen your candidacy – especially for candidates with weaker academics or limited quant experience.

A great test score can also improve your chances to secure a scholarship.

Planning Your Test Strategy: Retakes, Prep Time & Waivers

Standardized testing is one of the few areas of the MBA application where you can objectively improve your score with preparation. The key is giving yourself time and flexibility to adapt.

To build a smart test timeline:

Start studying early. Ideally, begin prep at least 4–6 months before your intended test date. This allows time for retakes ahead of application deadlines.
Plan for 1–2 retakes. Most applicants improve their score the second time. Schools consider your highest score, not your average. Consider retesting if:
- Your score is below your target school’s average
- You consistently performed better in practice tests
- Your quant and verbal scores are unbalanced
- You’re applying to highly competitive programs with quant-heavy expectations
Choose prep methods that suit your learning style. Whether it’s private tutoring, online platforms, or self-paced books, consistent practice is important. If you use self-study methods and find your progress plateauing, speak with a test prep expert.
Be aware of retake timelines. With the GMAT, you can retake after 16 days, and with the GRE after 21 days. This is important to keep in mind especially as you get close to application deadlines.
Know the score release timeline. GMAT scores are available within 3–5 business days. GRE scores are typically released in 8–10 days. Build this into your application timeline planning.
Understand test waivers. Some programs offer test waivers for applicants with advanced degrees, significant work experience, or strong academic performance. But waivers aren’t always advantageous – especially for competitive programs or candidates from overrepresented industries.

Remember, if your application is otherwise strong but you’re still not hitting target scores, you might still apply with your best score – but consider addressing your test history in an optional essay. Unless your situation is truly unique, submitting a score – even one slightly below average – is almost always better than not submitting one at all.

Round 1 vs. Round 2: Test Timing Strategy

Your testing timeline should align with your application goals. MBA admissions deadlines come fast – especially for Round 1 – so smart scheduling is essential to avoid rushed decisions or underprepared test attempts.

Here’s how to time your test depending on your target round:

Applying Round 1 (typically Sept–Oct): Aim to take your first test by May or June. This leaves time for a retake in July or August if needed, and keeps August open for finalizing essays, resume, and recommendations.
Applying Round 2 (typically Jan): Your first test should happen by September or October. With holidays and year-end demands approaching, early planning gives you flexibility to improve your score if needed.

The goal is to avoid last-minute test-taking. Trying to test and apply simultaneously can lead to weaker scores and rushed applications. For that reason, your test score should be finalized at least 3–4 weeks before your application deadline.

Finally, take as much advantage as you can of application cycles. Some candidates with marginal scores apply in Round 2 after using Round 1 to continue studying. Others apply in Round 1 to show strong early interest and compete for scholarships.

Final Thoughts: Your Test Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle

Choosing between the GMAT and GRE is a strategic decision – but it’s just one part of the bigger picture. Your score alone won’t make or break your candidacy, but it can open doors and reinforce your story when paired with strong academics, professional impact, and compelling essays.

Whatever path you choose, make it intentional. Prep strategically. Apply when you’re truly ready. As one Fortuna coach puts it: “I want my clients to apply as the best version of themselves – fully prepped, confident in their story, and ready to stand out.”

Need help deciding which test will give you the strongest edge, or crafting a game plan to maximize your score? Book a free consultation with a Fortuna Admissions coach. Our team of former admissions decision-makers offers candid, personalized guidance to help you every step of the way.

Judith Silverman Hodara is a Director and Co-Founder at Fortuna Admissions. For more free advice from Fortuna Admissions in partnership with Poets&Quants, check out these videos and articles. For a candid assessment of your MBA admissions chances, schedule a free consultation.