Which one is better? GRE or GMAT for engineers?
The majority of graduate schools in the United States require applicants to take at least one standardized test. GMAT and GRE are the most common graduate-level standardized tests. In some cases, you have the option to choose between the GRE and GMAT. As an engineer, you want to highlight your skills and try to score as high as possible to impress the admissions committee. When deciding between GRE or GMAT, consider these three items: your field of study, your skills (quantitative vs verbal), and future plans.
Which program are you pursuing?
The decision between GRE or GMAT for engineers can be straight forward. First, check the testing requirements for your program. If you are considering a career in management, then you can take the GMAT. MBA programs require GMAT scores as part of the application. Nonetheless, the majority of those schools also accept GRE as an alternative. Therefore, you can choose between GRE and GMAT.
When considering any other master’s degree program, you should take the GRE (since the GMAT won’t be accepted). You might be considering a master’s in engineering. Those programs require GRE scores. Also, they might require GRE subject exams, such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.
What are your skills?
As an engineer, you probably have above average mathematical reasoning skills. You should pick a test that displays your skill level.
The GMAT and the GRE both have a Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning section. However, the difficulty of those sections vary. The GMAT Quantitative section is known for featuring challenging logic questions. As a math-oriented individual, the GMAT is an excellent choice to highlight your quantitative skills.
The GRE’s Verbal Reasoning section has a challenging vocabulary section. It is known for featuring obscure words. If you do not feel comfortable with a demanding language section, then you should avoid the GRE or start preparing in advance.
If you can choose between the two exams, then pick the one that matches your competencies. Asses which exam is a better fit by taking a practice exam for GRE and GMAT. Then, use a GMAT / GRE converter to compare your scores.
Future Plans
Are you considering taking your exam and reusing your scores for future graduate school applications? That is possible thanks to the validity of the results. The results for both exams, the GRE and GMAT, are valid for five years. You have plenty of time to apply to your graduate program and reuse your scores for a future graduate program application.
Summary
GRE
- PRO: Almost all master’s programs (including MBA) accept GRE scores
- CON: Challenging Verbal Reasoning Section
GMAT
- PRO: Challenging Quantitative section (opportunity to highlight your mathematics skills)
- CON: Only accepted by MBA programs
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