The GRE and GMAT exams are widely used for admissions to master’s programs in the United States. Both are challenging, and you might find them particularly hard if you are unfamiliar with standardized testing.
Consider these facts:
- Approximately 150,000 students take the GMAT annually.
- In 2023, India had more GRE test-takers (113,304) than the United States (97,676).
- The average score of the GMAT is 574.51 out of 800.
- A GMAT score of 760 or above puts you in the 99th percentile.
- A near-perfect 168 on the GRE Verbal or Quant places you in the 99th percentile.
In the face of such stiff competition, it is tough to be outstanding. For those who are working, it is a steeper hill to climb because they have to prepare after regular working hours.
Hence, we have put together a GRE and GMAT guide for busy professionals. We shall share time-saving strategies for acing the GRE and GMAT while employed. Let’s dive right in.
Understanding the GRE and GMAT: Key differences
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) are both standardized tests used for graduate school admissions.
For years, admission to top universities in the USA depended on doing exceptionally well in these exams. Though at present many universities have made these exam scores optional, it goes without saying that a good performance strengthens your case.
These exams differ in their focus. Here is a detailed analysis of both exams, their curricula, structures, and differences.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE is necessary for admission to graduate schools, business schools, and increasingly, law schools in the United States. It is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service).
Structure and Format
The current test structure (from 2023) consists of five sections with a total duration of approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes.
| Section | Time | Description |
| Analytical Writing | 30 minutes | 1 task that evaluates analytical writing skills. |
| Verbal Reasoning 1 | 18 minutes | 12 questions |
| Verbal Reasoning 2 | 23 minutes | 15 questions |
| Quantitative Reasoning 1 | 21 minutes | 12 questions |
| Quantitative Reasoning 2 | 26 minutes | 15 questions |
Curricula and Purpose
Analytical Writing section
This part consists of one essay task, “Analyze an Issue”. This section evaluates your ability to analyze arguments, present a coherent and well-supported essay, and communicate effectively.
Verbal Reasoning
This section estimates your ability to read and understand complex text, analyze and interpret it, and draw conclusions. It focuses on reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, and text completion.
Quantitative Reasoning
The quant part assesses your mathematical reasoning skills, ability to solve problems, and your understanding of mathematical concepts. Questions are drawn from arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis, and probability.
Scoring
Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning: 130-170 in 1-point increments
Analytical Writing: 0-6
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
GMAT has been the principal entrance exam for US business schools for over 50 years. It is also used by other universities around the world. Currently, the exam is accepted by more than 7,700 programs across 2,400 business schools worldwide.
Structure and Format
The current test structure (known as Focus Edition) consists of three sections with a total duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes.
| Section | Time | Number of Questions |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 minutes | 21 questions |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 minutes | 23 questions |
| Data Insights | 45 minutes | 20 questions |
Curricula and Purpose
Quantitative Reasoning
This section evaluates:
- Understanding of foundational algebraic and arithmetic concepts
- Application of mathematical knowledge to solve problems
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal section measures:
- Reading comprehension abilities
- Critical reasoning skills
Data Insights
This newest section assesses:
- Ability to analyze and interpret data
- Application of data to real-world business scenarios and solutions
Data literacy questions include the interpretation of graphs and tables
Scoring
Overall score: 205-805 in 10-point increments
Each section: 60-90 in 10-point increments
Comparison Table: Key Differences Between GRE and GMAT
| Feature | GRE (Graduate Record Examination) | GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) |
| Primary Purpose | Admission to a wide range of graduate programs (sciences, business, engineering, etc.) | Admission to MBA and business school programs exclusively |
| Who Accepts It? | Most graduate programs globally | ~2,400 business schools worldwide |
| Test Structure |
|
|
| Test Duration | ~1 hour 58 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes (besides an optional short break) |
| Number of Questions |
|
|
| Quantitative Content |
|
|
| Quantitative Difficulty | Slightly easier; broader math concepts, less focus on data sufficiency | More challenging, strong focus on data analysis and problem-solving |
| Verbal Content | Heavy vocabulary emphasis (text completion, sentence equivalence); reading comprehension, some critical reasoning | Focus on reading comprehension, critical reasoning, grammar, and less vocabulary emphasis |
| Test Adaptivity |
|
|
| Calculator Policy | Allowed for all quantitative questions | Allowed only in the Data Insights section |
| Scoring System |
|
|
| Score Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
| Test Fee | ~$220 | $275 (test center), $300 (online) |
| Retake Policy | Once every 21 days, up to 5 times a year (no lifetime cap) | Once every 16 days, up to 5 times a year, 8 times in a lifetime |
| Score Reporting | ScoreSelect: choose which scores to send | Can cancel scores before sending to schools |
| Best Suited For | Applicants to a variety of graduate programs, those with strong vocabulary and reasoning skills | Candidates targeting MBA/business schools, those with strong quantitative/data analysis skills |
| Ideal Test-Takers | Those seeking flexibility in graduate program options | Those focused solely on business/management careers |
| Relative Preference (MBA) | Increasingly accepted at top MBAs; some programs still slightly favor GMAT for business analytics/finance tracks | Historically preferred by top MBA programs, especially for quantitative/finance-focused tracks |
Setting realistic goals and a study plan
To succeed, you need a targeted study strategy and well-defined, clear, achievable objectives. Here is an outline of a GRE and GMAT study plan for professionals:
Define Your Target Score
At the outset, have a clear number in mind. For the GMAT, a score of 700+ is necessary for leading business schools. On the GRE, a combined score of 320+ typically places you around the 80th percentile and is considered a good score.
Take a Diagnostic Test
Begin by knowing where you stand. Taking an initial practice exam allows you to benchmark strengths and weaknesses. You will have a clear understanding of what sections need more work.
Allocate Weekly Study Hours
As someone who wants to navigate exams while working, you cannot follow a punishing six-hour-per-day study schedule. It is best if you study through the weekend and on weeknights, and recap the main or difficult parts daily.
Distribute Time by Section
Divide time proportionally between Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing. You may need to do one more than the other, but don’t lose sight of the fact that none are easy. Stress more on one section if necessary, but don’t completely ignore any.
Implement Active Review
As a working professional, you should be adept at self-reviews. Use those techniques you have learned while working for the GRE and GMAT test prep for busy professionals. Techniques like the Kanban board can help organize exam preparation.
In short, define your target, map your execution, and review the progress, and you will create a sustainable study plan for the GRE and GMAT.
Time management strategies for working professionals
As a full-time professional, you already have a packed schedule filled with work and deadlines. More time management to prepare for the GRE or GMAT is an uphill task. Here is our advice:
Create a Non-Negotiable Study Schedule
It is exactly that non-negotiable. For the few months you will prepare, put your social life on hold. You have to study 3-4 hours daily, at least on Saturdays and Sundays. It should preferably be 5-6 hours. Daily commit 60 minutes of your time.
Leverage Early Mornings
Many studies show that early morning is the best time for test prep for busy professionals. Your brain has improved focus, reduced distractions, and the potential for better memory retention at this time.
Maximize Micro-Moments
Are you waiting for a meeting to start? Use these micro-moments to practice a few math problems or read short verbal passages. Will it be strenuous? Likely. But it will pay dividends in the long run.
Prioritize Quality over Quantity
If you want to ace the GRE & GMAT while employed, make it all about quality. When you study, a bomb can go off in your vicinity, but your focus should be intact. Set a strong intent and follow through.
Use Digital Tools to Stay Organized
Apps like Google Calendar, Trello, or simple to-do lists will help you stay organized. Proper use of these can transform the tough task of navigating exams while working.
Best study resources and prep materials
Besides hard work, you also need the best prep materials. Here are the top-ranked resources for GRE and GMAT exam prep.
GRE Preparation
- For comprehensive GRE preparation, the ETS Official GRE General Test website provides valuable resources. You can find the official guide, practice books, and practice tests.
- Use free resources on every section from the GRE Prep Club
- Manhattan Prep’s 5lb Book of GRE Practice Problems (₹2,900 on Amazon) is highly regarded among test takers.
- The Kaplan GRE Prep Plus 2025 (₹1,590 on Amazon) will help you build knowledge, skills, and confidence.
GMAT Preparation
- GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) provides free official test prep and resources.
- Manhattan Prep All the GMAT is a recommended purchase, but at ₹15,500, it is expensive.
- Kaplan GMAT 800 is a good substitute for the above and is more reasonably priced at ₹7,199.
Leveraging online and weekend prep courses
For both GRE and GMAT, GregMat offers free and paid options (only $7.99 per month) with strategies and practice questions. You have access to full practice tests and skill-building drills.
The same is also offered by Magoosh and Udemy. In recent times, Indian content providers such as IMS have also released courses for Indian students.
Besides, numerous YouTube channels cater to different sections within GMAT and GRE.
You can also receive plenty of support on Reddit forums r/GRE and r/GMAT, as well as Quora.
Effective strategies for verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections
Whether you’re tackling the GRE or the GMAT, you have to excel in every section. Here are a few strategies for GRE and GMAT success for professionals.
Verbal Reasoning: Sharpen Your Critical Reading Skills
Master Active Reading
Don’t just skim over text. While reading passages, mentally summarize each paragraph and try to predict what will come next. Training yourself to think while you read will help immensely.
Practice Precision
For both GRE and GMAT, clarity and grammar are of enormous importance. Read answer choices critically and don’t be daunted by fancy words or complex construction.
Quantitative Reasoning: Focus on Concept Clarity
Build a Solid Foundation
GRE and GMAT Quant test conceptual understanding, not calculation speed. Therefore, revisit school math textbooks and brush up on forgotten concepts in algebra and arithmetic.
Practice Timed Drills
Quantitative success comes from speed and accuracy. Build timing drills into your study routine, such as completing 15–20 questions in 30 minutes. Then review mistakes carefully to locate what went wrong.
Analytical Writing: Build Structure and Speed
Memorize a Template
Create a basic essay template—introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Practice writing in the same template time and again. This way, you don’t have to edit your thoughts and work during the exam.
Practice Quick Outlines
Spend the first 3–4 minutes of every essay planning your main points. A clear outline leads to a more structured essay that doesn’t veer away from the topic.
Essentially, do not treat all study time as the same. Create a separate, smaller study plan for each section and proceed accordingly.
Mock tests and performance tracking
Taking mock tests isn’t just practice. Think of it as preparation of a different type. Here is how to include it as part of an effective GRE and GMAT prep strategy.
Start Early with Baseline Tests
Don’t wait until you are ready. Start with a full-length diagnostic test at the very beginning of your prep. It will tell you where you need to focus.
Make Timed Tests a Ritual
Plan to take one each week. Sitting for 2-3 hours under strict conditions will build the mental stamina you will need on test day.
Analyze the Outcome
Map and analyze your results. What is getting better, and what is lagging? Use self-evaluation and metrics as part of test prep for busy professionals. Maintain a simple Excel tracker or notebook where you list mistakes.
Set Realistic Milestones
You may not score adequately the first time. It takes up to three attempts to get the perfect score. Therefore, never treat it as an all-or-nothing exercise. The first attempt is the base camp for the second attempt and onwards till you reach the summit.
Handling exam stress and maintaining work-life balance
First of all, we advise you not to get stressed about any exam. It is not worth it. You are not measurable through an exam. You are more than the sum of the parts.
Here are a few tips as part of the GRE and GMAT guide for busy professionals:\
Maintain Positivity
Before anything, believe in yourself. A positive mindset will offer you the strength for a strenuous regimen.
Deep Breathing Exercises
The body and the brain need oxygen to perform. Learn Kapalabhati Pranayama to cleanse the respiratory system, detoxify the body, and increase energy. Otherwise, you can use the Wim Hof Method to absorb enough oxygen and reduce tiredness.
Time Management
The old adage—make haste slowly—is an apt one for work-life balance during exam prep. Have a plan and throw into it as much strength of mind as you can muster. Keep to the plan and you will get enough chances for a break. Our request: don’t procrastinate or overwork. Both will stifle your progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many hours should working professionals dedicate to GRE/GMAT prep?
It is ideal if you study 45 – 60 minutes daily. During weekends, ramp it up to 3-5 hours per day. This is ideal because you also have a busy schedule at work.
2. What are the best resources for self-paced GRE/GMAT preparation?
For the best GRE preparation, consider using official ETS resources like the Official Guide to the GRE Revised General Test. For GMAT, use GMAT Club’s free practice tests and questions.
3. How can I balance work, study, and personal commitments effectively?
There is but one solution. Commit to a plan and live accordingly for the 6-8 weeks of preparation time. If you’re struggling with exam stress, don’t hesitate to seek help from counselors and friends.
4. Is it possible to prepare for the GRE/GMAT in three months while working full-time?
Yes, it’s possible to prepare for the GRE or GMAT in three months while working full-time. But it requires dedicated effort and a strategic approach. You need to commit fully.
5. What strategies can help improve test performance under time constraints?
We have three pieces of advice to help with test prep for busy professionals:
- Practice under timed conditions
- Develop a pacing strategy
- Manage test anxiety and relax
