GMAT V/S GRE

Choosing between taking the GMAT or the GRE can be a difficult task. Here are some differences that should make your decision easier:

• GMAT measures verbal, mathematical and analytical skills and predicts how suitable a candidate is for a management-related programme. It does gauge one’s knowledge of business, job skills, or even personal qualities such as motivation, creativity, and interpersonal skills. On the other hand, GRE measures suitability for subjects such as Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology.

• GMAT and GRE have been designed for native English speakers. Without fluency in English and excellent writing skills, it is impossible to get a good score in the GRE. However, students who cannot articulate well in the language can still perform well in GMAT. Students who are unsure of their language skills would be advised to take GMAT rather than GRE.

• GRE measures all the student’s verbal and quantitative skills in abstract thinking developed till the undergraduate stage. GRE requires widespread knowledge of vocabulary, writing skills and general.

• The GMAT deals with analysis while the GRE is about presenting arguments, preferably those that are abstract and draw reference from diverse sources and disciplines.

• The GRE is suitable for the more academically-minded student.

Beyond Scores
Non-native English speakers have skills and talents other than high GMAT scores. Even if such an application stands out, the graduate school will be interested despite a low GMAT score. Female candidates have a higher chance of being short-listed.

To appeal to candidates from wider backgrounds, graduate schools are looking at roping in students from backgrounds other than management or business. They are looking to admit Publishers, filmmakers, lawyers, theatre agents or graduates in law, medicine or literature.

How can you help yourself?
1. Ask the schools you are applying to which tests they accept. Decide which test (GMAT or GRE) you wish to take on the basis of your ability and also, which school you want to get into. If you have taken the GRE and got a good score you can always ask the schools if they will consider it.
2. Schools look at the overall package of test scores, essays, your background and your motivation. Think thoroughly about which business school would be in your best interest to apply to.
3. Websites on the subject and meetings with admissions directors will help you make an informed decision.

Hence, your final decision must be based on extensive research and a candid personal evaluation of your skills and abilities.

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