MBA programs say that they have no preference about whether you take the GMAT or GRE. So, how should you decide which test to take?
Which One Plays to Your Strengths?
Both the GMAT and GRE assess your verbal and quantitative reasoning, writing, and critical thinking, though each tests these concepts in different way. If English is your second language, you may have an easier time with the GMAT since it does not directly test vocabulary. If you are a non-traditional candidate with a limited quantitative background, you may prefer the GRE which is considered less quantitatively rigorous.
What is Your Past Exam History?
Did you already take the GRE for prior graduate work, and you have a perfectly strong score in hand? Have you taken the GMAT three times and failed to achieve your desired results? Both would be compelling reasons to consider the GRE for your business school applications.
Are You Definitely on the Business School Track?
If you are considering other graduate programs besides business school, or if you are a joint degree candidate, the GRE may be your best investment. While many other masters programs accept the GRE, the GMAT is exclusively for business school applicants. So unless you are exclusively pursuing an MBA, the GRE is the more versatile option.
Do You Perform Better on One vs. the Other?
If you still can’t decide, take practice exams for each and see which one feels more intuitive. Both GMAC (GMAT) and ETS (GRE) offer free exams on their website. Try them both on for size, and stick with the one that enables you to perform your best. That’s truly the only thing that matters to adcomms in the end.
[For personalized advice on choosing the right exam, or other MBA admissions questions, contact us at info@shineadmissions.com]
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