GMAT, GRE or EA: Which Test is Best for You?

MBAConcierge

You are applying to your dream B-School and wondering which test you should go for? In this article we will break down the difference between each of these tests to help you decide.

The GMAT has been around for over 50 years and specifically created for business schools and or a while, the GMAT test reigned supreme over MBA admissions. However, in an effort to bring more diversity to their classrooms more and more B-schools are now welcoming applicants with the GRE. This test is also required and accepted in most graduate schools in the US. To further improve their stats in terms of diversity some schools have now started accepting the Executive Assessment (EA). Originally created for applicants to Executive MBA, EA is now accepted in regular MBA and MS programs in several schools worldwide.

In terms of format these 3 tests are somewhat similar, they are comprised of a quantitative section- problem solving and data sufficiency; a verbal section which includes reading and critical reasoning and an analytical writing section.

Broadly speaking, what is the difference between each of these tests?

GMAT: This test has been around for a long time and Adcoms understand it best when it comes to assessing your fit to their programs particularly when it comes to assessing your analytical and quantitative skills.

GRE: This is best suited for undecided applicants who want to keep their options open when it comes to graduate school. Its quantitative section is a little less rigorous than that of the GMAT.

AE: The Executive Assessment is a relatively new exam and very much focused on real “executive life” situations. It’s also significantly more expensive and not as widely accepted as the other 2 tests.

How should you choose which test is best for you?

1. First and foremost, check your school of choice’s requirements in terms of entry tests. Many B-Schools still give preference to the GMAT, which is heavily weighted in rankings. The unspoken consensus among “middle of the pack” schools is that a lower GRE might be more acceptable than a lower GMAT since it does not affect rankings the same way.

2. If you are preparing for B-School admissions early enough, it might be a good idea to do a test run with both tests and see how you perform.

3. Based on your performance on both tests, take a deeper look into your strengths and weaknesses. Most specialists agree that not one test is “easier” than the other, however it’s a known fact that the GMAT’s quantitative section is more rigorous than the GRE’s. If you are comfortable with interpreting data in tables and charts and solving complex problems, the GMAT might be best suited for you.

GRE’s verbal section is quite rigorous. If you are comfortable with complex text analysis this might be the best option for you. For most non-native speakers and international students, the GRE verbal section might be particularly challenging. It’s no surprise that most international applicants go for the GMAT instead. If you are an executive, with many years of work experience and completely disconnected from the world of studying and standardized tests, then EA is best for you, however your choices will be limited in terms of schools.

4. Once you have decided which test is best suited to your skill set it’s imperative to prepare several months ahead of time. According to Kaplan it is recommended to study 100 to 120 hours for the GMAT at a rate of 2 to 3 hours a day max. For the GRE, Kaplan recommends 50 to 200 hours depending on your native language and recommends longer studying sessions than for the GMAT in order to get more in depth knowledge.

Regardless of which test you go for, remember that your test scores are just one factor among many others and never lose sight of the holistic nature of the admission process. Eventually the narrative you craft, your essay and your interview are critical parts of your applications and will truly tip the balance in your favor if you prep accordingly!

The Admission Concierge
www.admissionconcierge.com