Before you choose which test to take, it’s essential to understand how MBA programs view the GRE versus the GMAT. While both are accepted, there are subtle differences in format, content, and strategy that can influence your performance and admissions outcomes.

This section compares the two exams across key factors like acceptance, trends, structure, and flexibility.

1. Acceptance & Preferences:

• Most top MBA programs accept either test.
• U.S. and European schools treat both scores equally.

2. Trends in Submission:

• GRE use is increasing; many top schools now report GRE-majority submissions.
• UC Berkeley Haas: 58% GRE submissions in 2024.

3. Format & Length:

• GRE: Now just under 2 hours, no experimental section.
• GMAT Focus Edition: ~2.5 hours, launched in 2024.
• The shorter GRE is considered more accessible and less tiring.

4. Content Focus:

• GRE emphasizes both verbal and quantitative skills, with a strong vocabulary component.
• GMAT leans more toward advanced quantitative and data interpretation.
• Some schools pay close attention to high quant subscores on the GRE.

5. Flexibility:

• GRE can be taken at home or in test centers.
• Easier to schedule than GMAT, especially for international applicants.

6. Strategic Choice:

• Take practice tests for both exams.
• Choose the test where you score higher naturally.

Understanding the typical GRE scores at top MBA programs can help you set realistic and competitive targets. While schools rarely publish strict cutoffs, successful applicants to top-tier MBAs generally have GRE scores in the mid-320s or higher. This section outlines average GRE scores and GRE submission rates at leading business schools.

In general, a GRE total in the mid-320s (e.g., 165Q + 160V) is analogous to a 700+ GMAT.

Learn More About GRE for Business Schools Here.

GRE acceptance has gone global. While once seen as more academic-focused, the GRE is now recognized by top MBA programs across the U.S., Europe, Canada, Asia, and increasingly India.

This section provides a region-by-region breakdown of prominent MBA programs that accept GRE scores.

United States & Canada:

• All major full-time MBA programs accept GRE.
• Examples: Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, MIT Sloan, Columbia, Yale SOM, Chicago Booth, Kellogg.
• Canadian programs: Rotman, Ivey, HEC Montréal, UBC Sauder, York Schulich.

Europe & UK:

• GRE widely accepted by top programs:
• LBS, Oxford (Saïd), Cambridge (Judge), INSEAD, HEC Paris, IESE, IE, IMD, Cranfield, Manchester.

Asia-Pacific:

• Leading programs accepting GRE:
• NUS, NTU, SMU (Singapore)
• CUHK, HKUST (Hong Kong)
• CEIBS (China)

India:

• GRE acceptance is more common in 1-year and executive MBAs:

For Freshers:

• BITS School of Management (BITSOM)
• SPJIMR’s Global Management Program (GMP)

For Experienced Professionals (Executive MBAs):

• ISB PGP
• IIM Ahmedabad (PGPX)
• IIM Bangalore (ePGP)
• IIM Lucknow (IPMX)
• IIM Indore (EPGP)
• IIM Kozhikode (PGP-BL)
• XLRI (PGD-GM)

Note: Traditional 2-year IIM programs for fresh graduates still require the CAT.

Learn More About MBA Programs that Accept the GRE General Test From Official Source Here.

Submitting a GRE score is just one part of your MBA application. To maximize your chances at top programs, you need a strategic approach— planning your test timeline, targeting strong scores, and building a well-rounded application.

This section walks you through concrete steps to pair your GRE score with a competitive profile.

1. Plan Your Timeline:

• Take the GRE by late spring to target Round 1 deadlines (fall).

2. Set Target Scores:

• Aim to exceed the school’s average or 80th percentile GRE range.
• For top programs, 325–330+ is ideal.

3. Take Diagnostic Tests:

• Compare GRE and GMAT practice scores.
• Choose the test that aligns with your strengths.

4. Focused Prep (3–6 months):

• Use official ETS materials and prep books.
• Improve vocabulary, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning.

5. Use ScoreSelect:

• ETS allows you to send only your best GRE scores.
• Plan your retakes strategically.

6. Build a Strong Profile:

• Pair your GRE score with leadership, impact, and career clarity.
• Essays, recommendations, and resume are equally important.

7. Apply Early:

• Round 1 applications often have a slight edge.
• Finishing your GRE early helps focus on essays and interviews.