For students and professionals aiming to study abroad, standardized tests like GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, and IELTS play a crucial role in university admissions. These exams assess academic, analytical, and language skills, serving as a benchmark for universities to evaluate applicants.
Each test serves a different purpose based on the degree level, country of study, and institution requirements. Understanding the differences, eligibility, fees, and preparation strategies for these exams will help students choose the right test and maximize their chances of admission.
This guide provides a detailed comparison of GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, and IELTS, including exam structures, scoring systems, costs, and top preparation tips.
Understanding the Key Differences: GRE vs. GMAT vs. SAT vs. TOEFL vs. IELTS
Each of these exams serves a specific purpose. Below is an overview of their main objectives:
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – Required for master’s and PhD programs in universities worldwide.
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) – Essential for admission to MBA and business-related master’s programs.
- SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) – Taken by students applying for undergraduate (bachelor’s) degrees in the USA and some global institutions.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) – Measures English language proficiency for non-native speakers.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – Another widely accepted English proficiency test for students, workers, and immigrants.
Exam Structures and Score Ranges
Each test has a unique structure, format, and scoring system:
| Exam | Purpose | Sections | Score Range | Test Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRE | Master’s & PhD admissions | Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical Writing | 260-340 | 2 hours |
| GMAT | MBA & Business programs | Verbal, Quantitative, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing | 205-805 | 2 hours 15 mins |
| SAT | Undergraduate admissions | Reading, Writing & Language, Math | 400-1600 | 2 hours 14 mins |
| TOEFL | English Proficiency | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | 0-120 | 2 hours |
| IELTS | English Proficiency | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | 0-9 Band Scale | 2 hours 45 mins |
Knowing which test is required for your university admission is essential before applying.
GRE: Graduate Record Examination
The GRE is a standardized test required for master’s and doctoral programs in STEM, humanities, and business fields. It is accepted by universities in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia.
GRE Exam Sections
- Verbal Reasoning – Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical reasoning.
- Quantitative Reasoning – Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Analytical Writing – Evaluates the ability to present arguments and analyze issues.
GRE Fees (2025 Estimates)
- USA: $220
- India: ₹22,500
- UK: £180
- Canada: CAD 300
Best Preparation Tips for GRE
- Learn high-frequency GRE words to improve verbal reasoning.
- Master data interpretation and problem-solving skills for quantitative reasoning.
- Write practice essays with clear arguments for the analytical section.
- Use official GRE mock tests to improve time management.
GMAT: Graduate Management Admission Test
The GMAT is required for admissions into MBA and business master’s programs. It tests a student’s critical thinking, data interpretation, and problem-solving abilities.
GMAT Exam Sections
- Quantitative Reasoning – Assesses mathematical problem-solving and data sufficiency.
- Verbal Reasoning – Tests reading comprehension and critical reasoning.
- Integrated Reasoning – Measures the ability to evaluate data from multiple sources.
- Analytical Writing – Evaluates essay writing and argument analysis skills.
GMAT Fees (2025 Estimates)
- USA: $275
- India: ₹25,000
- UK: £200
- Canada: CAD 330
Best Preparation Tips for GMAT
- Strengthen logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
- Focus on data analysis for the integrated reasoning section.
- Take full-length mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Practice GMAT-style reading comprehension questions.
SAT: Scholastic Assessment Test
The SAT is a widely accepted undergraduate admission test for universities in the USA, Canada, and Europe. It evaluates a student’s reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning skills.
SAT Exam Sections
- Reading & Writing – Tests comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary usage.
- Math – Covers algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
SAT Fees (2025 Estimates)
- USA: $60
- India: ₹5,000
- Canada: CAD 85
Best Preparation Tips for SAT
- Master high-frequency SAT vocabulary words.
- Improve math problem-solving techniques.
- Take SAT mock tests under timed conditions.
- Focus on reading comprehension and grammar accuracy.
TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language
The TOEFL assesses the ability of non-native speakers to understand and use English in an academic setting.
TOEFL Exam Sections
- Reading – Tests comprehension of academic texts.
- Listening – Measures understanding of university lectures.
- Speaking – Evaluates pronunciation, fluency, and clarity.
- Writing – Assesses essay-writing skills.
TOEFL Fees (2025 Estimates)
- USA: $205
- India: ₹16,900
- Canada: CAD 275
Best Preparation Tips for TOEFL
- Improve listening skills by practicing with academic lectures.
- Work on structured speaking responses for TOEFL tasks.
- Write practice essays with logical arguments.
IELTS: International English Language Testing System
The IELTS is another widely accepted English proficiency test for universities, work, and immigration.
IELTS Exam Sections
- Listening – Tests understanding of conversations and lectures.
- Reading – Measures comprehension of academic and general passages.
- Writing – Evaluates essay writing and data analysis.
- Speaking – Assesses fluency and pronunciation.
IELTS Fees (2025 Estimates)
- USA: $250
- India: ₹17,000
- Canada: CAD 310
Best Preparation Tips for IELTS
- Practice fluent speaking responses with real IELTS prompts.
- Improve writing structure by practicing academic essays.
- Take listening practice tests to boost comprehension speed.
FAQs About GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, and IELTS
1. Which test should I take for studying abroad?
- GRE – For master’s and PhD programs.
- GMAT – For MBA programs.
- SAT – For undergraduate admissions.
- TOEFL/IELTS – For English proficiency requirements.
2. Can I apply to universities without GRE or GMAT?
Yes, some universities have waived GRE/GMAT due to pandemic-related policies.
3. Is TOEFL or IELTS easier?
IELTS is preferred by UK and Australia, while TOEFL is popular in USA and Canada.
4. How often can I take these exams?
- GRE: Every 21 days (up to 5 times per year).
- GMAT: Once every 16 days.
- TOEFL/IELTS: Multiple times a year.
