Why This Decision Matters More Than You Think
If you are an Indian student planning to study abroad for a Master’s degree, you have probably asked yourself: should I take the GRE or the GMAT? The answer depends on what you want to study, where you want to study, and your test-taking strengths. Getting this decision right can save you months of preparation time and thousands of rupees in coaching and test fees.
In 2026, the landscape has shifted significantly. The GRE is now shorter (under 2 hours), the GMAT has a new format (GMAT Focus Edition), and many top programmes accept both. This guide compares GRE and GMAT for Indian students — covering exam structure, scoring, costs, preparation strategies, and which test works best for your target programme.
GRE vs GMAT: Basic Overview
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)
- Conducted by: Educational Testing Service (ETS)
- Purpose: Admissions to Master’s and PhD programmes across all fields
- Duration: 1 hour 58 minutes (revised format)
- Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing
- Score range: 130 to 170 per section (Verbal and Quant), 0 to 6 (Writing)
- Test fee: $220 (approximately ₹18,400)
- Score validity: 5 years
GMAT Focus Edition
- Conducted by: Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
- Purpose: Admissions to MBA and business Master’s programmes
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights
- Score range: 205 to 805 (total)
- Test fee: $275 (approximately ₹23,000)
- Score validity: 5 years
Head-to-Head Comparison
Quantitative Section
GRE Quant covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Indian students typically find it easier because the concepts align closely with Class 10 to 12 mathematics. The difficulty is moderate, and an on-screen calculator is provided.
GMAT Quant is more challenging in terms of problem complexity. While it tests similar concepts, the questions require deeper analytical thinking and faster problem-solving. No calculator is allowed in the Quant section.
Verdict for Indian students: If maths is your strength, both are manageable. If you want to maximise your quant score with less effort, the GRE is generally friendlier.
Verbal Section
GRE Verbal emphasises vocabulary heavily. Sentence equivalence and text completion questions test your knowledge of advanced English words. Reading comprehension passages are drawn from humanities, science, and social science.
GMAT Verbal focuses on critical reasoning and reading comprehension. There is less emphasis on vocabulary and more on logical thinking and argument analysis.
Verdict for Indian students: If your English vocabulary is strong, the GRE works well. If you prefer logic-based questions over vocabulary memorisation, the GMAT is a better fit.
The Unique GMAT Section: Data Insights
The GMAT Focus Edition introduced the Data Insights section, which combines data sufficiency, multi-source reasoning, and graphics interpretation. This section tests your ability to analyse data from multiple sources — a skill valued in business programmes. The GRE has no equivalent section.
Which Programmes Accept Which Test?
MBA Programmes
All top MBA programmes accept the GMAT. Increasingly, most also accept the GRE — including Harvard Business School, Wharton, INSEAD, ISB, and IIM (for international exchanges). However, some admissions committees still view GMAT scores more favourably for MBA applicants because the test is designed specifically for business school readiness.
MS Programmes (Non-MBA)
MS in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Economics, and other non-business fields almost universally require or prefer the GRE. The GMAT is generally not accepted for these programmes.
Specialised Business Master’s
Programmes like Master’s in Finance, Business Analytics, or Management often accept both GRE and GMAT. Check individual programme requirements on the university website.
Cost Comparison for Indian Students
- GRE test fee: $220 (₹18,400 approximately)
- GMAT test fee: $275 (₹23,000 approximately)
- GRE coaching (India): ₹15,000 to ₹35,000 (Jamboree, Manhattan Review, TIME) or ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 (online — Magoosh, Gregmat)
- GMAT coaching (India): ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 (e-GMAT, Jamboree, CrackVerbal) or ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 (online — Target Test Prep, GMAT Club courses)
- GRE score sending: 4 free score reports on test day, $30 per additional report
- GMAT score sending: 5 free score reports, $35 per additional report
Total preparation and testing cost: GRE typically runs ₹25,000 to ₹55,000, while GMAT costs ₹35,000 to ₹75,000 including coaching.
Preparation Time and Difficulty
GRE Preparation Timeline
Most Indian students need 8 to 12 weeks for a competitive GRE score (320+). The biggest time investment goes into vocabulary building — learning 800 to 1,200 high-frequency words is essential for the Verbal section. Quant preparation takes less time for students with a strong maths background.
Recommended resources: Gregmat (gregmat.com — $5/month), ETS Official Guide, Manhattan 5 lb. Book, Magoosh GRE
GMAT Preparation Timeline
Plan for 10 to 16 weeks for a competitive GMAT score (700+). The Data Insights section requires specific preparation that adds 2 to 3 weeks. Verbal preparation focuses on critical reasoning skills rather than vocabulary.
Recommended resources: GMAT Official Practice (mba.com), Target Test Prep, e-GMAT, GMAT Club forums
Score Comparison: GRE vs GMAT
ETS provides an official GRE to GMAT score comparison tool. Here are approximate equivalents:
- GRE 320 ≈ GMAT 650
- GRE 325 ≈ GMAT 690
- GRE 330 ≈ GMAT 720
- GRE 335 ≈ GMAT 750
For top 20 MBA programmes, aim for GMAT 720+ or GRE 325+. For top 50 programmes, GMAT 680+ or GRE 318+ is competitive.
Decision Framework: Which Test Should You Take?
Take the GRE if:
- You are applying to MS or PhD programmes (non-MBA)
- You are applying to both business and non-business programmes
- You have strong vocabulary skills
- You want the flexibility to send scores to a wider range of programmes
- You prefer a shorter test duration
Take the GMAT if:
- You are exclusively targeting MBA programmes
- You are strong in data interpretation and logical reasoning
- Your target schools are known to prefer GMAT (check class profiles)
- You want to demonstrate specific business school readiness
Still unsure? Take a free practice test for both. ETS offers free GRE PowerPrep tests, and GMAC offers free GMAT practice exams. Compare your performance to decide.
Can You Take Both?
Yes, but it is not recommended unless you are applying to very different programmes (for example, MS in Computer Science and MBA). Taking both doubles your preparation time and cost. Most students are better served by choosing one and maximising their score.
Test Day Tips for Indian Students
- Carry your passport (the same one used during registration) — no other ID is accepted
- Arrive 30 minutes early at the test centre
- Use the restroom before the test starts — breaks are limited
- For GRE: master the on-screen calculator shortcuts to save time
- For GMAT: practise without a calculator for Quant to build speed
- Both tests are available at Prometric test centres across Indian cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GRE easier than GMAT for Indian students?
Indian students generally find GRE Quant easier due to the simpler problem types and calculator availability. However, GRE Verbal can be harder due to the vocabulary emphasis. Neither test is objectively easier — it depends on your strengths.
Do IIMs accept GRE scores?
IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and ISB Hyderabad accept both GRE and GMAT for their one-year MBA and PGP programmes. Check specific programme requirements.
Can I take the GRE or GMAT at home?
Both tests offer at-home testing options. GRE Home Edition and GMAT Online are available with the same scoring and content as centre-based tests. You need a private room, stable internet, and a functioning webcam.
How many times can I take each test?
GRE: Up to 5 times per year with a 21-day gap between attempts. GMAT: Up to 5 times per year with a 16-day gap between attempts.
Should I retake if my score is below target?
If you scored within 5 points of your target on the GRE or within 30 points on the GMAT, a retake with focused preparation on weak areas is worthwhile. For larger gaps, invest more preparation time before retaking.
When should I take the test?
Take the GRE or GMAT at least 3 to 4 months before application deadlines. This gives you time for one retake if needed. For September intake, aim to test by June or July at the latest.