Send both GRE and GMAT?

Question

Hey guys,

not sure if this has been asked before (kinda hard to search for the term 'GRE').

Anyway, here goes:

3 years ago I took the GRE (only Quant Section) as I was interested in Econ-Phd programs.

I got a 760 (86%) in the Quant Section (the other stuff was not scored).

I gave up on the idea of an Econ-Phd, and I'm now taking the GMAT in May.

I read that some schools ask applicants to send  both  the GMAT and GRE scores, if you've taken both.

I am a little hesistant to send the GRE scores... it all comes down to explaining why I took it and why I only got the quant part scored.

I was interested in the Econ-Phd because there was a time where I didn't like my job at all (got better now).

Do you think that story will be helpful at all, or does it even lower my chances?

Thanks a lot for your insights!

GMATLA · Answer

My advice, do not send anything about your GRE score. Why even bring up the opportunity to have to explain something about your application. If it was an 800, then maybe, but a 760 quant on GRE is nothing too impressive by GMAT quant standards. I would recommend that you only submit your GMAT, and would only submit the GRE if you do poorly on GMAT quant.

If you start getting into this huge explanation about previous goals, then the Adcoms might begin second guessing your dedication in pursuit of an MBA. They might also question if you know which direction you want to go. If you want to get your MBA, and have the best story of an Adcom, you want to show them where you've been, where you are going, and exactly how the MBA is going to get you there.

jfk · Answer

Thanks a lot, Gmatla! This is really helpful!

subhashghosh · Answer

I sent both, and I think it worked out fine. I don't think that by submitting GRE scores you'd be sending mixed signals to the Adcom folks. The disclaimer - my GRE score in Quant was 800.

rasta · Answer

If you've done well in both, why not? Adcoms, while they don't openly admit it, prefer GMAT to GRE because the GMAT scores carry a lot of weight in the bschool rankings.

jfk · Answer

Thanks! What scores did you get on the GRE?

Send both GRE and GMAT?

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