Switch to GRE after studying months for GMAT?

Question

My journey with the GMAT started in 2020 when I tried studying but had ZERO structure. I eventually ended up taking the test and didn’t keep my score. I picked up studying again in 2023 with Manhattan Prep but was also not committed and never took the test.

Here I am again, committed with the plan to apply Round 2 to b school. I am now deep into my GMAT studies (about 36% through TTP) with a plan to take the test in October. However, I’m not seeing the improvement I expected, and I’m wondering if my progress is slower than anticipated or if I might be missing something.

Here’s my situation:

Initial Diagnostic Score:  535 GMAT - 80DI, 67Q, 83V (my GRE score was similar, though I don’t remember the exact number).
 Recent Mock GMAT Score : 575 - 77DI, 76Q, 83V This was disappointing considering the effort I’ve put into studying, especially since I’m not seeing much improvement in the quant section.
 Practice GRE Score:  315 - 151Q, 157V. I took this to evaluate if switching tests might be beneficial, as I’ve been focusing heavily on improving my quant skills.

Given this context, is it worth continuing with the GMAT, or should I consider switching to the GRE? Any advice would be appreciated!

Posted from my mobile device

pintukr · Answer

Should use Forum Quiz to solve increasing difficulty level questions.

All the Best.

shishimaru · Answer

It sounds like you’ve been on quite a journey with your GMAT preparation, and it’s great to see your commitment to applying to business school. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions based on your situation:

1.  Assess Your Study Strategy:  Since you mentioned that you’re about 36% through TTP (Target Test Prep), it might be worth evaluating your study methods. Are you actively engaging with the material, or just passively reading? Consider incorporating more practice questions, timed sections, and reviewing your mistakes thoroughly to understand where you’re going wrong.

2.  Focus on Quant Improvement:  Since you’re not seeing the improvement you expected in the quant section, it might be helpful to identify specific areas within quant that are challenging for you. Are there particular types of questions or concepts that you struggle with? Targeting these areas with focused practice can lead to better results.

3.  Mock Test Strategy:  Your recent mock score shows some improvement, but it’s understandable to feel disappointed. Make sure you’re simulating test conditions as closely as possible during your practice tests. This includes timing yourself and minimizing distractions. After each mock test, spend time analyzing your performance to identify patterns in your mistakes.

4.  Consider the GRE:  If you’re feeling consistently stuck with the GMAT and your practice GRE score is more in line with your expectations, it might be worth considering a switch. The GRE can be a good alternative, especially if you feel more comfortable with its format or if you believe your strengths align better with the GRE’s question types.

5.  Set Realistic Goals:  Given your timeline for applying in Round 2, set realistic goals for your GMAT or GRE preparation. If you feel that you can make significant progress in the next few months, it might be worth sticking with the GMAT. However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, switching to the GRE could provide a fresh start.

6.  Seek Support:  Consider joining study groups or forums where you can share experiences and strategies with others who are preparing for the GMAT or GRE. Sometimes, discussing challenges with peers can provide new insights and motivation.

Ultimately, the decision to continue with the GMAT or switch to the GRE should be based on where you feel you can perform your best and what aligns with your business school goals. Trust your instincts, and remember that many students have successfully navigated similar challenges. Good luck with your studies!

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi cheerfullygmat,

The biggest key to improving your GMAT score is completing the entire study plan before your test date. Do you think that would be possible? Regarding switching to the GRE, your baseline GRE is quite solid, so the question I have is, which test do you feel better about? The GMAT or GRE?

bb · Answer

Hi. I have seen a number of people who have butted their heads against the GMAT wall take the GRE and score over 330.

it is definitely worth considering both tests.

I would probably say a few things based on what I’m seeing:

1. Schools tend to deprioritize the GRE, which means it’s not quite as competitive and you can sneak in with a mediocre score.

2. However, it is extremely pivotal if you’re applying with a GRE score to have a very strong profile. You could have a mediocre profile but with a great GMAT score, do you have a chance but if you have a mediocre profile and the great GRE score, there’s very little opportunity for success.

3. What I’m seeing from your scores is that quant is an issue and that is something you have to going to conquer. This may be because you hate math or you think you’re not a math person and more often than not, more psychological than anything. if you have a bad feeling about something, you won’t succeed so the key with the GMAT or GRE is that you need to think about it as an enabler and as an opportunity rather than a gatekeeper or something you hate.

PS. Based on your results so far, I don’t think it really matters too much which test you would take as both scores are about comfortable. there’s not much of a difference between the quant tested on the GMAT and the jury so I would keep working on your quant skills. You can then decide which test to take. One may feel more natural than the other.

Switch to GRE after studying months for GMAT?

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