GRE after GMAT?

Question

I had applied last year with a low GMAT score but was not selected. I am planning to reapply to Columbia again this year but would like to understand whether I should try to attempt the GMAT again or to submit a GRE score?

I find the GMAT verbal section difficult and I would probably score in the range of 650-700 if I decide to give GMAT again. Since I am good with vocab, I just gave a GRE practice test where I scored a 315. I am sure after prep that I can improve this score to get between 320-330.

Would the admissions office look at the application in a negative light if I re-apply with a GRE score? Or would it be safer to stick to the GMAT even though it might not be a great score?

abhimahna · Answer

Hi bks5860 , Welcome to GMATClub

I think if you are already good at GRE, you should go ahead and take the exam. You can always explain your reasons for taking the GRE exam and if it is a great score, Columbia won't bother about your previous GMAT score. So, get yourself prepared for GRE and beat the exam.

LeonidK · Answer

What was your GMAT score? The score that you have been rejected with

Skywalker18 · Answer

Hi bks5860 ,
320 is a pretty good score and corresponds to somewhere around the 80th percentile and 330 is close to 98 percentile and hence it is a rare score. In my opinion, if needed you can always explain why did you take the GRE and if you score in the upper half of that range 320-330 , you should be good as the b school won't be concerned about your earlier GMAT score .
How much did you score on the GMAT when you were not accepted by Columbia ?

bks5860 · Answer

Thanks Abhimahna, LeonidK and Skywalker18!

So I should just focus on giving the GRE?

I applied with a 600. Quant score was high (49) but the verbal was really low.

abhimahna · Answer

Yes, if you are confident that you can score a great score on GRE, Go ahead and get that done.

Remember, an outstanding GRE score will make your application very strong despite your previous low GMAT score.

LalcoInteriors · Answer

bks5860 · Answer

Okay, I will start preparing for the GRE then

Thanks so much!

MBAIvy · Answer

Couldn't agree with this more - it's 100% true that sometimes people score better on the opposite test, simply because the way the test is structured. It's is also my professional opinion that for those who score higher in verbal, the GRE might give you a boost over the GMAT.

Switching tests, as long as your new score is high, will not be a red flag to admissions. They just want to know that if they admit you, you can keep up with the course work at that high level!

Hope that helps!

mygreexampreparation · Answer

how can i score highest in just one month ? can i have that type of gre books ?

shreyagupta1401 · Answer

Can someone please guide me - I am struggling with a similar question. 2 attempts at GMAT with a low score and now I have only 2 weeks to prepare something (B school deadlines). I am trying to evaluate if GRE is a better option for me. Can someone suggest if I should even try to take GRE as I have only 2 weeks for prep, or I should keep my focus on GMAT? GMAT is kind of scaring me now because however hard I try I am unable to score in the exam (scoring better in prep tests though).

bb · Answer

GRE after GMAT?

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