GMAT or GRE for MBA?

Smart question.

Here’s how I’d think about it:

• Pick the one you’re more comfortable with. If you’re better at verbal reasoning, GRE might feel easier. If you’re stronger in quant and structured thinking, GMAT might be a better fit.
• Don’t avoid your weak areas. If there’s a section you’re dreading, be aware that weakness will show up somewhere in the MBA journey—whether on the test or later in class. It’s better to face it now and build confidence.
• Focus on your target schools. Check what they actually prefer—some programs may lean slightly toward the GMAT, especially for consulting/finance-heavy tracks. But most accept both without bias now.
• Know your percentile targets. A “good score” depends on the program, so aim for at least the median or above at your target schools.
• Essays matter—a lot. Don’t lose sight of this. The test opens the door, but your story gets you in.

Bottom line: go with the test that plays to your strengths and allows you to showcase your potential with minimal time loss.

Hello! Wanted to add my two cents here - if you’re clear about the school you want to go, and they accept GRE, for sure go for it. It’s definitely easier!! Everyone I know who took it didn’t regret it. However some schools have restrictions and only allow GMAT …. 

My advice holds unless you take a mock GMAT test and you nail it, then consider the GMAT to be safe !! 

Hi there,

I faced a similar question myself when applying to London Business School (I took the GMAT), so happy to share some thoughts.

Which test is quicker to prepare for really depends on your strengths:

1. GMAT tends to favor those with strong quant and logic skills, especially in data sufficiency. The verbal section can also be tricky with critical reasoning and sentence correction. If you're from a technical or quant-heavy background, it might suit you well.
2. GRE is often considered a bit more forgiving in quant, but more vocabulary-heavy in the verbal section. If you’re stronger in writing and reading comprehension — and less confident in high-level quant — this might be quicker to prep for.

Some practical tips:

• Try a diagnostic test for both — many people find one "clicks" better than the other.
• GMAT Focus Edition (the new version) is shorter and more streamlined than the old GMAT, so it may level the playing field a bit.
• Both are accepted at top MBA programs, and there’s no admissions preference at most schools as long as your score is strong.

Given your time constraint, I’d recommend:

• Pick the one that aligns more naturally with your strengths
• Take a diagnostic this week, and commit to a focused prep schedule — 4 to 6 weeks of structured prep is often enough to hit a competitive score

If you need further advice feel free to reach out.

Best,
Evelina

I have taken both in the past (for different reasons). My experience is that GMAT is easier especially if you have some working experience already in the business world.

Also, if you are an international student with English being a 2nd language, the vocabulary requirement for GMAT is much lower vs GRE (a lot more technical terminologies). 

Best,

Emily

Hi Gio,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• I would strongly advise you to choose based on your natural strengths, as well as the requirements of your target universities, and not the opinions of coaches - preparation time is significantly reduced when the test plays to your existing strengths.

You can find more on this topic here: Speed reading techniques.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there, 

Honestly, it depends on your individual strengths. 

Do a simulation of each, and figure out which ones feel more comfortable for you and plays to your strengths. Then go for that one. 

Re prep - make sure that you budget enough time and build enough of a buffer to prep until the exam. Cramming doesn't work that well for these tests, but rather steady prep. 

Btw, also this list of common formulas might come in handy:

• Cheatsheet: The Must-Know Consulting Terms for Interviews

Best,
Cristian

The quickest way to decide would be to take a practice one of each, see where you score higher and prep for that one. Having a higher baseline reduces the time you need to prepare. 

That being said, more schools accept GMAT vs GRE for MBA programs so you may find that to be an advantage in favor of GMAT.

All the best,
Udayan