Both the GRE and GMAT exams hold significant weight for admission into international institutions. Several multinational organisations and companies also consider these test scores during their employment selection process. Here’s everything you need to know about GRE and GMAT and a look at how to convert GRE to GMAT scores.
The primary distinction between the GRE and GMAT exams is that the GMAT is mainly intended for admission into business schools and MBA programs, whereas the GRE is commonly accepted for a wide range of other graduate courses and universities. Generally, the GMAT is considered more challenging and has a higher scoring range compared to the GRE.
Recently, more students have opted to take the GRE, even for admission into business schools. This shift is largely due to the perception that the GRE is less complex than the GMAT.
Before you can effectively convert GRE scores to GMAT scores or vice versa, it’s essential to understand how each exam is evaluated.
Both the GRE and GMAT exams use adaptive testing methods, which means there isn’t a universal scoring scheme. Your scores are determined not just by the number of correct answers, but also by the difficulty level of the questions you answer correctly. This evaluation method places your score within a percentile range, rather than providing a straightforward percentage.
For example, if you score 640 in one year, it might place you in the 96th percentile. However, the following year, someone with the same score might be in the 99th or 89th percentile. This variation occurs because percentiles are relative and depend on the performance of other test-takers in the same testing period. This is why understanding score trends and competition is crucial when planning for admissions study abroad.
Historically, the GMAT has been the preferred test for most of the world’s top business schools. However, due to a growing number of GRE test-takers, many prestigious business schools have now started to accept GRE scores as well. There are several key differences in how scores from these two exams are reported. The table below highlights these differences:
Parameter of Differentiation | GRE | GMAT |
Format | 3 sections:
Quants (130-170) Verbal (130-170) Analytical Writing (0-6) |
4 sections:
Quants (6-51) Verbal (6-51) Analytical Writing (0-6) Integrated Reasoning (1-8) |
Adaptive | Section-wise | Question-wise |
Time | 225 minutes | 187 minutes |
GRE and GMAT Conversion Chart: The Easy Method
GMAT Score | GRE Score |
340 | 800 |
338 | 790 |
336 | 780 |
334 | 760 |
332 | 740 |
330 | 730 |
328 | 710 |
326 | 690 |
324 | 670 |
322 | 660 |
320 | 640 |
318 | 620 |
316 | 610 |
314 | 590 |
312 | 570 |
310 | 560 |
308 | 540 |
306 | 520 |
304 | 500 |
302 | 490 |
300 | 470 |
298 | 450 |
296 | 440 |
294 | 420 |
292 | 400 |
290 | 390 |
288 | 370 |
286 | 350 |
284 | 330 |
282 | 320 |
280 | 300 |
278 | 280 |
276 | 270 |
274 | 250 |
272 | 230 |
268 | 200 |
266 | 200 |
264 | 200 |
262 | 200 |
260 | 200 |
While this chart offers a quick reference, it might not provide precise GRE to GMAT conversion scores not listed here. In such cases, it’s recommended to use a formula that can accurately convert GMAT to GRE.
The GMAT to GRE conversion calculator uses specific formulas to achieve precise score conversions. By understanding and applying these formulas, you can convert GMAT scores to GRE scores more accurately and efficiently.
GMAT Score = 6.38 x GRE Verbal + 10.62 x GRE Quantitative – 2080.75
GMAT Verbal = 0.912 x GRE Verbal – 109.49
GMAT Quantitative = 1.243 x GRE Quantitative – 158.42
Using these formulas, you can accurately determine equivalent GMAT and GRE scores, which can be valuable when applying to universities, internships, or job opportunities.
Excelling in the GRE and GMAT tests requires focused preparation and understanding of each exam’s requirements. Here are some tips that will help you crack the tests:
Know the sections for each exam. GRE has Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing, while GMAT includes Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. Knowing the format helps in managing time and expectations during the test.
Develop a consistent routine, focus on weak areas, and use practice tests to track progress. Allocate more time to weaker areas and adjust your study plan based on test results and focus on steady improvement.
Use official GRE and GMAT preparation books and resources, such as those from ETS for the GRE and GMAC for the GMAT. Several online platforms offer practice questions and mock exams that mimic the real test environment.
Practice with timed sessions, prioritize easier questions and manage your time effectively.
Expand vocabulary for the GRE and review math concepts for both tests.
Practice essays and review sample prompts for the Analytical Writing sections.
Engage in activities that boost analytical skills for better performance in reasoning sections.
Replicate the test environment by taking full-length, timed practice tests. This helps in building stamina, assessing your readiness, and identifying areas that need more focus.
Consider tutors or study groups for additional support if struggling with specific sections.
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Understanding GRE to GMAT conversion helps students make informed decisions about their test preparation and application strategy. Whether you’re aiming for a business school or a general graduate program, knowing your potential score on both tests can enhance your application profile.