If you’re exploring graduate programs or business schools, you might find yourself comparing the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examination). These exams are widely accepted by universities worldwide, but their scoring systems differ significantly. Understanding how to convert your GMAT score to a GRE score—and vice versa—can help you make informed decisions about your test strategy.
Convert GRE To GMAT
Why Convert GMAT to GRE Scores?
Many MBA programs now accept both GMAT and GRE scores. However, admissions committees often rely on conversion tools to compare applicants’ scores across these two tests. Similarly, prospective students might want to compare their performance to determine which test showcases their abilities more effectively.
GMAT and GRE Scoring: The Basics
- GMAT: Scored on a scale of 200 to 800 in 10-point increments, based on Quantitative and Verbal sections.
- GRE: Each of the Verbal and Quantitative sections is scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in 1-point increments. The overall GRE score is the sum of these two sections, ranging from 260 to 340.
The scoring systems measure similar skills but are scaled differently, which is why conversions can’t always be precise but instead are approximate.
How to Convert GMAT to GRE Scores
ETS, the organization that administers the GRE, provides a conversion tool called the GRE Comparison Tool for Business Schools. This tool converts a GRE score into an equivalent GMAT score. While the tool doesn’t allow you to directly input GMAT scores to get a GRE equivalent, reverse-engineering the process works just as well.
Here’s an approximate GMAT-to-GRE conversion:
| GMAT Score | GRE Quant + Verbal (Total) |
| 800 | 340 |
| 790 | 339 |
| 780 | 338 |
| 770 | 337 |
| 760 | 336 |
| 750 | 335-336 |
| 740 | 334 |
| 730 | 333 |
| 720 | 332 |
| 710 | 330-331 |
| 700 | 328-329 |
| 690 | 327 |
| 680 | 326 |
| 670 | 325 |
| 660 | 324 |
| 650 | 322-323 |
| 640 | 320-321 |
| 630 | 319 |
| 620 | 317-318 |
| 610 | 316 |
| 600 | 314-315 |
| 590 | 313 |
| 580 | 312 |
| 570 | 311 |
| 560 | 309-310 |
| 550 | 308 |
| 540 | 307 |
| 530 | 306 |
| 520 | 305 |
| 510 | 304 |
| 500 | 303 |
| 490 | 302 |
| 480 | 301 |
| 470 | 300 |
| 460 | 298-299 |
| 450 | 297 |
| 440 | 296 |
| 430 | 295 |
| 420 | 294 |
| 410 | 293 |
| 400 | 292 |
For more granular conversions, you can use online tools or tables based on ETS’s data.
Key Points to Consider
- Accuracy: The GMAT and GRE measure similar skills but differ in structure and emphasis. For example:
- The GMAT has a stronger focus on data sufficiency and integrated reasoning.
- The GRE allows skipping questions and returning to them, which some find more flexible.
- The GRE includes an unscored experimental section.
- Percentiles Matter: A score that’s impressive on the GRE may not translate into an equally competitive GMAT percentile. Focus on percentiles when evaluating your performance.
- Program Preferences: Some MBA programs still favor GMAT scores. Research the preferences of your target programs before deciding which test to take.
Which Test Should You Take?
Here are a few guiding factors:
- Strength in Math: If quant is your strong suit, the GMAT may give you an edge since its quantitative section is often considered tougher.
- Flexibility: The GRE is accepted for a wider range of programs, including non-MBA graduate degrees.
- Test-Taking Style: If you prefer flexibility in answering questions, the GRE might suit you better.
Conclusion
Converting your GMAT to GRE score—or vice versa—can help you understand your relative performance across these exams. However, keep in mind that admissions committees consider more than just scores; they look at your application holistically. Whether you choose the GMAT or GRE, focus on showcasing your strengths and aligning your application with your chosen program’s requirements.
Still unsure? Take practice tests for both and compare your performance. The right choice could make all the difference in your application journey!