GMAT vs GRE: Which Test Should You Take for MBA Abroad?

Are you planning to pursue an MBA abroad and unsure whether to take the GMAT or GRE? You’re not alone. At IMFS (Institute of Management & Foreign Studies), with over 26 years of success in MBA admissions counseling, we’ve guided thousands of students into top global business schools cvincluding Harvard, Stanford, INSEAD, and ISB.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you choose the right test for MBA admissions — GMAT or GRE — based on your academic strengths, career goals, and target schools.

Understanding the Core Differences: GMAT vs GRE for MBA Abroad

GMAT Focus Edition (2025 Updates)

• Tailored specifically for MBA and business master’s programs
• Emphasizes data-driven decision-making, critical reasoning, and analytical problem solving
• Features a new Data Insights section, aligned with real-world business analytics
• Still the preferred exam for most top-tier MBA programs abroad, especially for MBA scholarships

GRE General Test

• Accepted for a wider range of graduate programs, including dual-degree options
• Includes a vocabulary-heavy verbal section
• Allows calculator use in quantitative sections
• Ideal for students considering multiple academic paths or uncertain about pursuing only an MBA

GMAT or GRE: How to Decide?

Choose GMAT if:

1. You’re focused solely on MBA or business master’s programs
2. Your strengths are in logical reasoning and quantitative analysis
3. You want to stand out with business-relevant analytical skills
4. You’re targeting schools that prefer GMAT scores for MBA admissions and scholarships

Consider GRE if:

1. You’re applying to multiple types of graduate programs
2. You’re stronger in verbal reasoning than in math
3. You want the flexibility to change academic tracks later
4. Your schools of interest state no preference between GRE and GMAT

What IMFS Data Reveals: GMAT vs GRE Success Rates

With thousands of successful MBA admits, here’s what IMFS data shows:

• 75% of IMFS students admitted to top-20 MBA programs submitted GMAT scores
• GMAT takers receive more MBA scholarship offers
• GRE is beneficial mostly for joint-degree programs or non-traditional applicants
• Applicants with GMAT scores above 720 had a 35% higher admission rate compared to similar GRE candidates at selective business schools

IMFS Recommendations: How to Make the Right Choice

1. Research Your Target MBA Programs

• Check if your preferred schools favor GMAT scores
• Look at class profile stats to compare average GMAT vs GRE scores

2. Take Diagnostic Tests

• Take both a GMAT mock test and a GRE mock test
• Use the IMFS GMAT diagnostic test to identify your strengths and improvement areas

3. Factor in Your Preparation Timeline

• GMAT preparation may take longer due to its unique question types
• GRE allows use of a calculator, potentially easing the quantitative section

4. Evaluate MBA Scholarship Opportunities

• Many top business schools allocate more scholarships to high GMAT scorers

Final Verdict: Which Exam is Better for MBA Abroad?

While both tests are accepted by many international business schools, the GMAT remains the gold standard for students aiming at competitive MBA programs abroad. If you’re seeking maximum scholarship potential, a GMAT score may significantly enhance your application.

The GRE, on the other hand, offers more flexibility and may benefit applicants targeting dual degrees or those with stronger verbal skills.

Personalized MBA Counseling from IMFS

With 26 years of expertise, IMFS offers personalized MBA admissions counseling to help you select the right test, prepare effectively, and target the best MBA programs abroad. Our approach has helped students gain admission to top B-schools with scholarships and strong career placements.

👉 Visit www.imfs.co.in to get started with your MBA abroad journey.