Is GRE Accepted for MBA Admissions?

Did you know that nearly half of business schools now accept the GRE for MBA admission? With the traditional GMAT losing its stronghold, many applicants face the dilemma of choosing between the two exams.

For MBA hopefuls, deciding which test to take can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s understanding how your GRE score stacks up against the GMAT or figuring out what business schools prefer, this blog will help guide you through the decision-making process.

GMAT vs GRE – Key Differences

Here’s a table comparing the key differences between the GMAT and GRE to help you choose the most suitable test for your MBA application:

Aspect	GMAT	GRE
Purpose	Specifically designed for business school admissions.	Accepted for various graduate programs, including MBA.
Quantitative Focus	Stronger emphasis on complex quantitative questions.	More straightforward math, focuses on basic concepts.
Verbal Focus	Tests grammar and reasoning in sentence correction.	More vocabulary-based with reading comprehension.
Scoring Range	200-800 (total score); 6.0 (AWA)	260-340 (total score); 6.0 (AWA)
Test Structure	4 sections (Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, AWA)	3 sections (Quant, Verbal, AWA)
Popularity with MBA Programs	Preferred by many top MBA programs globally.	Increasingly accepted by top business schools.
Test Duration	3 hours 30 minutes	3 hours 45 minutes
Flexibility	Limited to business-related programs.	Can be used for non-business and MBA programs.
Score Validity	Valid for 5 years	Valid for 5 years
Test Fees	Around $275	Around $220

This comparison provides clear distinctions between the GMAT and GRE, helping you choose the one based on your strengths and program goals.

GMAT or GRE for MBA – What should you choose?

Choosing between the GMAT and GRE is a key decision for business school applicants. With top business schools accepting both exams, knowing which one suits your strengths and MBA application goals is essential.

Test Preference of Business Schools

Before deciding between the GMAT and GRE for your MBA application, it’s crucial to check the preferences of your target schools. While most top business schools now accept both exams, some MBA programs may still lean towards the GMAT. Be sure to research which exam aligns better with your chosen business schools.

Personal Strengths in Test Prep

Consider your strengths. The GMAT is known for its quantitative focus, while the GRE exam emphasizes verbal reasoning. Business school applicants should choose the test that aligns best with their abilities, ensuring better results in their test prep journey.

Flexibility and Score Use

If you’re applying to a variety of graduate programs beyond business schools, the GRE offers more flexibility. Many MBA programs that accept GRE scores may cater to candidates with diverse academic backgrounds. However, if your focus is solely on top business schools, the GMAT may still hold an edge in some cases.

Why should you preferably take GRE for MBA Admissions?

Taking the GRE for MBA admissions can offer more flexibility than the GMAT. Many MBA programs worldwide now accept the GRE general test, making it a good option for students targeting a wider range of schools, including both business and non-business programs. If your dream school is among the top MBA programs, the GRE has become just as accepted as the GMAT. Plus, if you’re stronger in verbal reasoning, you may find the GRE test score more favourable.

For those unsure about committing to business alone, the GRE also allows you to keep options open for other graduate programs. Comparing the GRE to the GMAT, the former often suits applicants with a broader academic background. So if your target MBA program accepts the GRE, it’s worth considering taking the GRE to widen your opportunities.

Top Business Schools Accepting GRE

Here’s a table of top business schools accepting the GRE across different countries, including section-wise minimum GRE score requirements:

Business School	Country	Minimum GRE Score (Verbal / Quant / AWA)
Harvard Business School	USA	160 / 160 / 4.5
Stanford Graduate School of Business	USA	162 / 164 / 4.5
London Business School	UK	160 / 160 / 4.0
University of Oxford – Said Business School	UK	160 / 160 / 4.5
INSEAD Business School	France	160 / 160 / 4.0
HEC Paris	France	158 / 160 / 4.0
Rotman School of Management	Canada	160 / 160 / 4.0
Ivey Business School	Canada	158 / 158 / 4.0
Melbourne Business School	Australia	158 / 160 / 4.0
University of Sydney Business School	Australia	158 / 158 / 4.0
Mannheim Business School	Germany	155 / 160 / 4.0
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management	Germany	157 / 158 / 4.0

What is a Good GRE score for MBA programs?

A good GRE score for MBA programs varies depending on the school. However, highly competitive programs generally look for an average GRE score of 320 or higher. Business schools consider a score in the 160+ range for both the verbal and quantitative sections as competitive. The average GRE scores for MBA programs at top schools tend to be around 160 in verbal and 160 in quantitative.

Programs accepted by business schools may have different requirements, but a balanced score is always a positive indicator. For most applicants, aiming for a score close to or above the average GRE score will enhance their chances at top MBA programs.

What do Business Schools prefer? GMAT or GRE

When it comes to MBA admissions, the debate of GMAT vs GRE remains prevalent. Many of the world’s leading business schools and international business schools now accept both the GMAT and the GRE. Traditionally, the GMAT score was preferred for MBA programs, but admissions committees have increasingly welcomed the GRE as a valid alternative.

What Admissions Committees Consider?

While both the GMAT and the GRE are accepted as admissions tests, some business schools may still show a slight preference for the GMAT score. This is because the GMAT has been historically linked to business and management education. However, for many international business schools, choosing the GMAT or GRE depends more on the applicant’s strengths and program alignment rather than a strict preference for one test over the other.

When choosing the GMAT or GRE, it is essential to consider your target schools and their specific requirements. Some schools may lean towards the GMAT, while others accept both without bias. Ultimately, it’s about presenting the admissions committees with a test score that reflects your capabilities and aligns with the expectations of the business programs you’re applying to.

Conclusion

The GRE offers a flexible path to MBA admissions, making it a strong option for many aspiring business students. Accepted by top programs globally, it provides an alternative to the GMAT, allowing candidates to showcase their strengths and increase their chances of securing a spot in their dream MBA program.

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