GMAT or GRE: Which test is the best fit for me?
By Courtney Mack, Associate Director of Admission and Student Services, Nathan S. Collier Master of Science in Real Estate
The beginning process of taking the GMAT or GRE can feel like a long, winding road. And it is. You’re going to put hours into studying and taking practice tests. While it seems daunting, there’s an effective way to manage these hours, balance all the different options in front of you and choose the routes that are best. But first, we need to decide which test is the best fit for you.
You might have heard that many who take the GMAT are also taking the GRE, or vice versa. You may be wondering which test is easier, or which is better as a candidate for the Nathan S. Collier Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) program or other specialized master’s degree. If you are wondering exactly what the GMAT is and how it differs from the GRE, then let me shine a light on your struggle.
Our MSRE students come from all different majors and experiences. The average GMAT score is 620 and GRE is 310 within the MSRE program. Since the Nathan S. Collier Master of Science in Real Estate is within the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida, the GMAT is the most common standardized test, as is at most business schools.
Much like the GRE, it consists of a verbal and quantitative section. The GMAT is focused more on grammar, while the GRE is focused more on vocabulary. For those with strong quant skills, the GRE math section will seem easy, especially since the GRE allows you to use a calculator. The GMAT math section is definitely more daunting, so if you struggle with mathematics, then the GMAT will seem very difficult. This may or may not be a positive to the student. On the other hand if you struggle with vocabulary and style, the GRE verbal section may be very difficult. That is not to say that the GMAT verbal section is easier. I encourage you to take multiple practice tests of the GRE and GMAT to learn which option suits your style.
It’s helpful to mimic the experience you’ll have on test day beforehand, this way you won’t be surprised or off pace when it comes time to take the real thing. So, set aside four hours once or twice before the exam, and take a practice test straight through. This is one of the most valuable test tips you can use. We even offer a GMAT practice test on the MSRE admissions page located at the bottom right.
The most important thing about the GMAT or GRE is that it is predictable. If you know how to study for the GMAT or GRE, you will know exactly what to expect on the test and when to expect it. It is predictable, calculated and contains little to no surprises.
Be calm. Be confident. And be focused. The GMAT or GRE is one test. You can retake it. So, don’t sweat it. Forget everything else in the room. Forget the pressure. Simply focus on the test. You can do it, and you will do it.
Courtney Mack is the Associate Director of Admission and Student Services in the UF Nathan S. Collier Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) program. She has been working in higher education admissions & advising related roles for over eight years within the state of Florida and the state of New York. In 2018, she came back to her home state to support the Gators. She is responsible for recruiting and admitting MSRE students and advising undergraduates, graduates and professional law students. She enjoys mentoring students from application day to graduation day. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and her MBA from Southeastern University.
Have other questions for Courtney about preparing for admission to the Nathan S. Collier Master of Science in Real Estate program? Request information about the program today.
