Should You Take the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment?
Should you take the GMAT Focus, GRE, or Executive Assessment? It’s one of the first things people ask when they start thinking about an MBA. The exams overlap in what they test, but they feel very different once you actually start studying. One might be a much better fit for you than the others. Read the details about the exams below to help you decide.
GMAT Focus Edition
The GMAT Focus Edition replaced the previous GMAT format in 2024 and is now the only GMAT version used for MBA admissions.
Cost: $275 for in-person or $300 for online
Length: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Sections (3 total):
Quantitative Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning
Data Insights
Score Range: 205–805
Key characteristics:
No analytical writing section
Heavy emphasis on analytical reasoning and data interpretation
No calculator allowed on the quant section
Data Insights tests multi-source reasoning, graphics interpretation, and data sufficiency
The GMAT Focus is generally considered more math-intensive. The quant questions tend to be conceptually rigorous, and because calculators are not permitted, strong number sense and mental math matter.
GRE
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is accepted by nearly all MBA programs and remains a strong alternative to the GMAT.
Cost: $220
Length: 1 hour and 58 mins
Sections:
Verbal Reasoning (2)
Quantitative Reasoning (2)
Analytical Writing
Score Range:
Verbal: 130–170
Quantitative: 130–170
Analytical Writing: 0–6
Key characteristics:
Calculator permitted on the quant section
Quant is considered slightly more straightforward than the GMAT Focus
Verbal is more vocabulary-intensive
Many applicants find the GRE quant to be a bit more approachable because of the calculator and question style. However, the verbal section can be more demanding due to advanced vocabulary and nuanced reading comprehension.
The GRE is also more flexible for applicants considering dual degrees or non-business graduate programs.
Executive Assessment (EA)
The Executive Assessment was designed for experienced professionals applying to Executive MBA (EMBA) and some part-time or specialized master’s programs.
Cost: $350
Length: 90 minutes
Sections:
Integrated Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning
Quantitative Reasoning
Score Range: 100–200
The EA is shorter and typically requires less preparation time. It is often chosen by EMBA applicants and/or professionals with significant work experience
Some full-time MBA programs accept the EA, but policies vary. Always verify with your target schools before selecting this option.
GMAT vs GRE: The Practical Differences
If you’re deciding specifically between the GMAT Focus and GRE, here’s the simplified breakdown:
GMAT Focus: Harder math, strong data interpretation emphasis, no calculator
GRE: Calculator allowed, slightly more accessible quant, heavier vocabulary
Which Test Should You Take?
If your target programs accept all three:
Take a full-length practice exam for each option.
Compare your diagnostic results.
Consider your career stage and target program type.
Choose the exam that maximizes your relative competitiveness.
Plan for 2–4 months of preparation for whichever MBA admissions exam you choose.
The “right” test isn’t about prestige, it’s about strategy. The strongest score relative to your target school’s class profile is what matters most.
