GMAT and GRE Myths Debunked

As an MBA admissions consultant, I often see applicants struggle with choosing between the GMAT and GRE. The decision can feel overwhelming. Should they take the GMAT or GRE? When should they prepare and sit for the exam? What GMAT or GRE score is ‘good enough’?

These are the right questions to ask but, as with nearly everything in the MBA application process, the answers aren’t cut and dry. To clarify things as much as possible, below are three commonly held beliefs about the GMAT and GRE exams that aren’t as straightforward as they seem. 

Myth #1: I come from a non-quant background, so I should take the GRE as opposed to the GMAT.

Experts in our network confirm that the GMAT is a more rigorous exam, particularly regarding quantitative depth. Applicants often assume that a “non-quant” background makes the GRE a safer choice. However, this logic is often flawed. A strong GMAT score remains the most effective way for liberal arts candidates to prove their academic readiness to admissions committees.

Admissions committees often question the quantitative readiness of candidates from liberal arts backgrounds. Attaining a competitive GMAT score is the most direct way to mitigate this concern.

Focus on your strengths. If you have strong verbal capabilities, excelling in that section offers a significant ‘bang for your buck.’ Each incremental verbal point yields a larger jump in your overall percentile compared to the quantitative section.

Your ultimate goal should be simple: earn the strongest score possible. That matters more than which test you choose. Someone with a liberal arts background is much better off submitting a solid GRE score than a below average GMAT. In a nutshell, be strategic about your choice of test based on your specific circumstances and don’t jump to a conclusion based on your perception of what ‘type of person’ takes each one.

Myth #2: I can wait to take the GMAT or GRE until the summer before I want to apply to business school.

Sure, you can, but should you? I would argue not. Schools typically release their applications (i.e., essay questions) in the summer. Ideally, you want to have the GMAT out of the way at this point as there is A LOT to do once you get into the thick of things. Here is a little more detail on our recommended application timeline.

GMAT/GRE experts recommend beginning your test prep 10-12 weeks before you plan to take your first test. And, while this may not be pleasant to hear, you should leave time for two or three attempts (each spaced a minimum of 16 calendar days apart, as required). Working backwards, you should begin studying by early May. This allows enough time for multiple attempts.

Honestly, it’s almost never too early to get your testing out of the way. GMAT and GRE scores are good for five years and many of our clients achieved their best results while still in college or shortly after graduating since they were still in ‘study mode’.  

If you didn’t plan this far ahead (I didn’t either!), start now. This is especially important if you work long hours. You’ll need focus and momentum. Investing in a top GMAT or GRE prep course or even private tutoring can help immensely; we would be happy to share the resources that have been most helpful to our clients.  

Myth #3: I scored a 730 on the GMAT (hooray!), so I am ‘done’.

While 730 is an awesome score (top 4% to be exact) and is right around average for the top programs, the decision on when to set your test prep materials aside is a little more nuanced. As you may have guessed, if your undergrad GPA is lower than your target schools’ averages and/or you come from an overrepresented applicant pool (bankers and consultants, I’m looking at you), you should think long and hard about whether you have more to give in the test department.

When should you stop testing? Evaluate your progress objectively. If your third or fourth attempt shows no measurable improvement, you have likely reached your plateau. At this stage, shifting your focus to other application components is more strategic. Before you do, think about whether you really gave it your all. Did you create a study plan and follow it religiously? Also, look at your official GMAT / GRE practice tests, particularly your third through sixth ones. If your scores were materially higher than your results on test day, perhaps something fluky happened (nerves got the best of you, etc.) and another attempt would be worthwhile.

At the end of the day, of course schools care about more than just your GMAT or GRE score. Even the strongest test score won’t guarantee you admittance into your dream program. However, as you’re well aware, the MBA application process is a major undertaking if done right and you want to make sure you give each component your all. So, start your test prep early, strategically plan your approach, and follow your plan. Once you do those things and hopefully attain a GMAT or GRE score you are proud of, move on to crafting a stellar application!

If you would like assistance, sign up for a Free Consultation with an experienced admissions expert who can provide a helpful evaluation of your profile. We look forward to hearing from you!