What is a GRE vs IELTS: Which One Should You Take?

Close to 14 lakh students are studying abroad as per data shared by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India (Year 2024). Are you also considering studying abroad and wondering which entrance exam is right for you? For international students, two of the most widely recognized tests are the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Deciding between these two tests can be challenging, especially when trying to align them with your academic and career goals. In this blog, we will explore the differences between the GRE and IELTS, providing clarity on which one is more suited to your needs and will help you make an informed decision. Before we head towards the difference between GRE vs IELTS let us have a quick overview of the two tests:

What is GRE?

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a globally recognized standardized test used to assess a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level education. It is commonly required for admission to postgraduate programs in various fields such as business, engineering, humanities, and sciences. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), a U.S.-based non-profit organization, the GRE helps institutions evaluate a student’s analytical, verbal, and quantitative reasoning abilities.

The GRE comes in two types: the GRE General Test, which is most common for applicants to MS and MBA programs, and the GRE Subject Test, which focuses on specific disciplines like Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology for candidates pursuing advanced studies.

The test’s format is specifically designed to evaluate students’ abilities in both verbal and quantitative abilities. The GRE format includes three key sections:

• Verbal Reasoning (27 minutes): Evaluates reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.
• Quantitative Reasoning (41 minutes): Tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
• Analytical Writing (30 minutes): Requires only one task—analyzing an issue

The exam is offered in computer-based format. As of September 2023, the test duration has been reduced to 1 hour and 58 minutes, while maintaining the same evaluation standards. Students can see their GRE results 10 to 15 days after their exam date. While the total GRE score is 340. However, GRE scores for each component are reported separately – Your GRE Analytical score is reported on a scale of 0 – 6, your GRE Verbal Reasoning score is reported on a scale of 130-170 and your GRE Quantitative Reasoning is reported on a scale of 130-170. Your GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the day of your GRE exam.

The GRE is suitable for applicants to graduate and business schools, particularly in the US, Canada, and many European institutions, who seek admission into programs that demand strong reasoning and analytical skills.

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized test conducted by IDP IELTS India to assess English language proficiency. It evaluates non-native English speakers in four key skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Established in 1989, the test is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English, and is accepted by over 10,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, employers, and immigration authorities.

The IELTS is available in two formats:

• IELTS Academic: Suitable for individuals aiming to pursue higher education in English-speaking countries.
• IELTS General Training: For those seeking to migrate or work in countries where English is the primary language.

The exam, which lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes, is offered in both paper-based and computer-delivered formats. It consists of four sections:

1. Listening (30 minutes): Candidates listen to four recordings of fluent English speakers and answer related questions.
2. Reading (60 minutes): This section includes three long reading passages, followed by comprehension questions.
3. Writing (60 minutes): Candidates complete two tasks—an essay and either an academic report or a general training letter.
4. Speaking (11-14 minutes): A face-to-face interview with an examiner, involving general questions, a topic discussion, and a structured conversation.

Scores are reported on a band scale from 1 to 9, with 1 indicating non-user proficiency and 9 indicating expert-level fluency. The overall score, along with individual scores for each section, is valid for two years. If the student chooses to take the computer-delivered version of the IELTS exam, their results will be accessible in 3–5 days, and if they choose to take the paper-based version, they will receive their results in 13 calendar days.

The IELTS is perfect for students applying to universities, professionals seeking job opportunities abroad, and individuals aiming for immigration purposes in countries that require English proficiency. Now that you know about the two exams, let’s have a look over the difference between the two.

Key Differences Between GRE and IELTS

While the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) evaluates a student’s analytical, verbal, and quantitative reasoning skills for graduate-level programs, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) assesses English language proficiency. Universities typically require GRE scores to ensure a candidate’s readiness for advanced coursework, whereas IELTS scores confirm a student’s ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.

Deciding which is the better option in between GRE and IELTS is a challenge because of their distinct aspects and the countless variations between the two. If the issue of whether the GRE or IELTS is superior crosses your mind, we’ve outlined all the key distinctions for both exams below. Understanding these differences will help simplify the decision-making process when choosing which exam is right for your goals.

Which Exam is Easier or More Suitable for You?

GRE or IELTS? Applicants often have no idea what test they need to choose and which is better among the two. Choosing between the GRE and IELTS depends on several factors, including your academic background, career goals, test-taking skills, and comfort with specific content. Here’s a guide to help you determine which exam may be more suitable for you:

1. Academic Background

• If you’re aiming to pursue graduate studies in the United States, the GRE is often required. It tests your analytical, verbal, and quantitative reasoning skills, which are essential for academic success at the graduate level.
• For those targeting universities outside the US, especially in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, the IELTS may be the more relevant test. It assesses your English language proficiency, which is crucial for studying in an English-speaking environment.

2. Future Goals

• If your career path involves graduate-level coursework or research, especially in fields like engineering, business, or science, the GRE is more appropriate. It helps universities assess your ability to handle the rigours of advanced study.
• If your goal is to work, migrate, or study in an English-speaking country without needing advanced academic skills, the IELTS might be the better option. Many institutions and employers use IELTS scores to gauge language competency.

3. Test-Taking Skills

• If you’re comfortable with quantitative reasoning and have strong verbal reasoning abilities, the GRE may play to your strengths. The test also includes an Analytical Writing section, which assesses your critical thinking and argumentation skills.
• If you’re more comfortable focusing on language proficiency, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking, the IELTS might be easier to manage. The IELTS does not include any sections on mathematics or analytical reasoning, making it more suitable for those who struggle with these areas.

4. Specific Program Requirements

• Always check the specific requirements of the universities or programs you’re applying to. Some graduate programs may require specific test scores. For example, universities in the US might mandate the GRE for certain courses, while others may ask for a combination of both IELTS and GRE scores.
• Always check the admission requirements of your target programs. Some institutions may even have minimum score thresholds, so understanding these criteria will help you make an informed decision.

Tips for Choosing the Right Exam

• Assess your academic goals: If your goal is to study in the US or apply for graduate-level programs, the GRE is a clear choice. For non-US countries and programs that primarily focus on English proficiency, IELTS will likely be more useful.
• Consider your language skills: If you’re not confident in your English abilities, the IELTS may help you demonstrate your proficiency more effectively.
• Know the specific requirements: Review your target institutions’ application guidelines carefully. Some may require specific tests or score ranges to qualify for admission.
• Take Practice Tests: Both exams have practice tests available online. Taking them will help you understand which one you’re more comfortable with.

Preparation Tips for Both Exams

Preparing for both the GRE and IELTS requires tailored strategies to succeed in each. Here’s how you can effectively prepare for both exams to boost your performance.

GRE Preparation Tips:

1. Start Early: Give yourself at least 3 months to prepare.
2. Practice Regularly: Focus on verbal, quantitative, and writing skills daily.
3. Take Mock Tests: Familiarize yourself with the test format through practice exams.
4. Study with Official Materials: Use ETS GRE preparation books and tools.
5. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and improve your weaker sections.

IELTS Preparation Tips:

1. Improve Your English Skills: Work on enhancing your listening, reading, writing, and speaking abilities.
2. Take Practice Tests: Simulate the exam environment by taking full-length mock tests.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format: Understand the format of each section.
4. Time Management: Practice completing tasks within the time limits.
5. Seek Feedback: Take advantage of online IELTS coaching to get feedback on your writing and speaking.

Recommended Resources:

• For GRE: ETS Official Guide, Magoosh GRE, Manhattan Prep.
• For IELTS: La Forêt Education, IELTS Edge, Cambridge IELTS books.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether you choose the GRE or IELTS depends on your academic and career goals and understanding which exam aligns with your strengths and goals will help you make the right decision. The GRE is crucial for determining a candidate’s preparedness for graduate-level study in various subjects, while the IELTS is a must for anyone seeking to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries. Both exams require dedicated preparation, but with the right resources and guidance for IELTS preparation, success is within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is IELTS easier than GRE?

Ans: The IELTS and GRE serve different purposes, making them difficult to compare directly. IELTS focuses on assessing English language proficiency, while the GRE tests analytical, verbal, and quantitative reasoning skills. For non-native English speakers, IELTS might seem easier as it tests language abilities, while the GRE demands a broader skill set. Ultimately, the difficulty depends on individual strengths and familiarity with the exam content.

Q: Is GRE tough for Indian students?

Ans: The GRE can be challenging for Indian students, especially due to the advanced verbal reasoning section, which often includes complex vocabulary and reading comprehension. Additionally, the analytical writing section may pose difficulties for those less experienced in critical writing. However, with proper preparation and focused study, many Indian students successfully overcome these challenges and achieve strong GRE scores.

Q: How many years is the GRE valid?

Ans: The GRE score is valid for five years from the date of the test. This allows test-takers flexibility in applying to graduate programs within this time frame, giving them ample time to plan their applications and career paths.

Q: Is GRE compulsory for MS in the USA?

Ans: While the GRE is commonly required for MS programs in the USA, it is not always compulsory. Some universities may waive the GRE requirement or offer alternative admissions criteria, especially post-pandemic. However, a strong GRE score can significantly enhance an applicant’s chances of admission and scholarships at top institutions.