Most applicants and master programme aspirants believe the GRE is solely for an MSc programme and the GMAT for MBA. While it is true that each of the aforementioned tests applies to the respective programmes mentioned, a GMAT can also be used for an MSc and a GRE can be used for an MBA. Read this article to know if GMAT scores can be used for applying for an MS programme. However, before we begin let us first try to understand the difference between GRE and GMAT briefly.

Difference Between GMAT and GRE

While the GMAT is a 3 hours and 7 minutes long exam, the GRE on the other hand is timed at 3 hours and 47 minutes. Although the GRE is divided into three sections, the time duration of the test is more than the GMAT which is divided into four sections. The reason the GRE is longer is that each of its verbal and quant sections is divided into two parts of 35 and 30 minutes each respectively, with 20 questions in each section. Hence, the GRE verbal section in total is 70 minutes long and the quant section is timed at 60 minutes in total. 

On the other hand, The GMAT quant and verbal sections are not divided like the GRE. Any GMAT test taker will have to answer all the 31 questions of quant and 36 questions of the verbal section within a time span of 60 minutes each. However, both tests offer a break between the verbal and quant sections. Moreover, while the GMAT is scored on a scale of 200-800, the GRE is scored on a scale of 260-340. Hence, a test taker can achieve on GMAT total marks of 800, whereas on the GRE a 340. 

However, one factor that is common between both tests is that there are no work or qualification requirements pertaining to eligibility for GMAT or GRE as such. The lack of major educational or professional eligibility criteria for differences between GMAT and GRE makes it easy for students in undergraduate programmes to take these tests while still in undergrad school. Hence, most students begin preparing for such competitive tests during their undergraduate studies. 

Now that we know the differences in the GRE and GMAT exam structures, let us answer the question: can GMAT scores be used to apply for an MS programme?

Can GMAT Score Be Used for MS?

Although most business schools accept both the GRE and GMAT scores for their MBA, MiM or MSc programmes, some might restrict the acceptability of the GMAT scores for certain programmes. The GMAT is a test that gauges logical reasoning, critical thinking and problem-solving skills using concepts that are an integral part of curriculums taught by business schools. Hence, the GMAT is more valid and accepted by institutions that offer business and management programmes. On the other hand, the GRE also tests similar skills; however, it does not restrict the knowledge tested on concepts of business only. Hence, most universities or tech schools prefer the GRE for MS programmes pertaining to STEM fields. 

All in all, you can use the GMAT for MS programmes in business or management studies; however, a GRE may be more appropriate when applying to a STEM-designated master’s programme at a university.

Now that we’ve answered your question, can GMAT score be used for MS, you’re better positioned to decide which test suits your goals.