Should I take the GRE or GMAT? What are the differences?

This is a really good question! There are many things you should consider when deciding whether to take the GRE or the GMAT. First, you should double check the programs you're interested in to see if they accept either test.  The vast majority of business schools do accept either exam, whereas other graduate programs only accept the GRE.

Here's what I'd recommend next:

1. Find out which test you have a better baseline aptitude for.

If you are curious as to whether you are more suited for the GMAT exam, the most accurate practice tests are the one offered by GMAC called GMAT Official Prep. It's the equivalent of POWERPREP Online for the GRE. Take both of those exams, and see which one you find easier/more suited to your skill set. You can also make a dispassionate determination by comparing your percentile outcome for each test. If your skills are better showcased on one test over the other, that's the one you should take!

2. Consider the specific content and question styles of each test.

In general, there are a couple of main differences between the GRE and the GMAT. For a more in-depth writeup, see our article on GMAT vs GRE.

To determine the similarities between the GMAT and GRE materials, you can also take a look at the lists of lessons we have available for each exam: GRE lessons versus GMAT lessons. You'll notice that a large part of the material overlaps, with some differences:

• The GMAT has a unique section—Data Insights—with specific lessons covering all those special question types, including data sufficiency.
• For Quant topics that overlap, the GMAT lessons sometimes go into further detail, explaining more advanced strategies than those in the GRE product.  However, they cover similar math material overall.
• As for Verbal, the GRE lessons emphasize vocabulary and complicated sentence structures, given that the GRE tests those directly.

The main question types on the GRE are:

• Quant: quantitative comparison, data interpretation, numeric entry, multiple choice, multiple answer
• Verbal: text completion, sentence equivalence, reading comprehension
• Writing: 1 issue essay and 1 argument essay

The main question types on the GMAT are:

• Quant: problem solving
• Verbal: critical reasoning, reading comprehension
• Data Insights:  data sufficiency, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, table analysis, multi-source reasoning

The biggest differences are that GMAT math is generally considered a bit more difficult than GRE math and that the GRE directly tests your vocabulary knowledge. Otherwise, your choice of test should come down to your personal strengths.

3. Consider what the test needs to say about you as a candidate.

What skills are the admissions committee members going to be looking for? The GRE is a much more broad, basic graduate aptitude assessment while the GMAT is geared toward business and related fields. If there are certain aspects of your application that are lacking and can be bolstered with correctly selecting the test you take, this is a good way to augment your profile!

To learn more about what admissions is specifically looking for in regards to both exam, please see our article:

• GMAT or GRE for MBA: Which Exam is Best for Business School?

Ultimately, if you are in a position to choose, you're likely to find success with either test. Good luck! :)