The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a general admissions test used for a wide range of graduate programs across disciplines. Whether you’re eyeing a master’s in engineering, psychology, economics, or even an MBA, many universities will accept GRE scores. The GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, on the other hand, was created specifically for business and management programs. It’s traditionally seen as the go-to exam for MBA admissions.

So what’s the difference in terms of content? The GRE focuses more heavily on vocabulary and reading comprehension in its verbal section. If you’ve always had a strong grip on English vocab or enjoy analyzing complex texts, you might find the GRE verbal section a good fit. Its quant section involves standard high school-level math but in the form of detailed word problems. The writing section requires you to write two essays—one analyzing an issue and one evaluating an argument. The GMAT verbal section is more logic-based, leaning into critical reasoning and sentence correction. Its quant section feels more intense—not necessarily harder, but the questions are structured to challenge your logical speed. It also includes an Integrated Reasoning section, which tests your ability to work with data through tables, charts, and graphs. You’ll also write one essay analysing an argument.

When it comes to where these tests are accepted, both the GRE and GMAT have gone global. Most top universities in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia accept either exam. US universities, especially for STEM and liberal arts master’s programs, tend to prefer the GRE. MBA programs in the US and Europe traditionally leaned toward the GMAT, but that’s quickly changing. Schools like Stanford, MIT, and London Business School now accept both, although a few still unofficially "prefer" the GMAT for MBA applicants. In Canada and Australia, you’ll also find that the GRE is widely accepted for MS programs, while the GMAT still holds ground in business school admissions.

From a cost and logistics standpoint, there’s not much separating them. Both tests cost around ₹22,000 to ₹24,000 in India and are available in all major cities, with both offering at-home testing options. Scores are valid for five years, and registration is fairly straightforward online. The prep timelines are also similar—about two to three months of consistent study for most students.

So how do Indian students usually choose? Over the past few years, we’ve seen more students opting for the GRE, especially those who are applying to a mix of programs or want to keep their options open beyond business school. If you’re pursuing a master’s in data science, public policy, or engineering, the GRE is your best bet. But if your focus is a top-tier MBA and you want to position yourself as a serious management candidate, the GMAT might still give you a slight edge.

That said, there’s no universal “better” test. The decision should depend on what plays to your strengths. If vocabulary and long-form comprehension feel natural to you, the GRE might feel more approachable. If you thrive on data analysis and fast-paced logic puzzles, the GMAT may suit you better. Either way, admissions officers are looking at more than your test score—they care about your academic performance, your clarity of purpose, your work experience, and your story.

The bottom line is this: don’t let the GRE vs GMAT debate hold you back. Both tests are simply tools to help you reach your goal. What matters more is how you present your full profile and how confidently you walk your path. At GradGuide, we’ve helped students succeed with both exams—what makes the difference is not which test they chose, but how well they prepared, and how clearly they aligned their test strategy with their personal aspirations.