By Gabriel Chouman, MFA2025
As a Student Ambassador, I often received queries from prospective students about the GMAT and the GRE as these standardized tests remain a core element of the LBS application process. While both of these standardized tests are accepted at London Business School, choosing between them requires careful consideration. Having taken the GMAT myself, I’d like to share my insights on test selection, preparation strategies, and practical tips for success.
Choosing Between GMAT and GRE
When deciding which test to take, here are the main factors that I considered to make my decision:
Test Purpose and Design
The GMAT is specifically designed for business school applicants, with sections that test skills relevant to graduate management education coursework. Recently redesigned, it features a three-section format: Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights. On the other hand, the GRE serves a broader range of graduate programmes beyond business, offering a different format with Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections.
Playing to Your Strengths
Consider your academic background and natural abilities. The GMAT tends to favor those with strong analytical and quantitative abilities. If you excel at business-oriented problem solving, the GMAT could be your best bet. However, if you believe that you have stronger verbal skills and have less experience in quantitative fields, the GRE may very well be the better option for you.
Take Practice Tests
Ultimately, the most effective way to decide between the two exams is to take practice tests for both of them. Both providers allow students to take free sample tests to get a solid perspective of the structure and requirements for each exam. This will give you concrete data on which test format plays to your strengths and gives you the best odds of achieving a high score. You can also use the GMAT and GRE simulators on the LBS website.
Creating Your Preparation Strategy
Once you have selected your test, developing a structured preparation plan will be crucial to reach a specific score threshold in a restricted amount of time:
Set a Timeline
Test preparation will vary from person to person, but I’ve found that people tend to aim to study for about 4 months when targeting competitive programmes like the ones offered here at London Business School. A timeframe like this allows you to put in the necessary effort to achieve your best possible score. However, make sure to adapt your timeline to your specific needs and schedule. There is no set amount of preparation time that will result in the best score. It is always more beneficial to take more time if it means landing a better score. Additionally, schedule your test early in the application process to allow time for retakes if needed!
Focus on Weak Areas While Maintaining Strengths
After taking a diagnostic test, identify areas where you’re struggling but have potential to improve. Prioritize topics that are frequently tested. For example, in GMAT Quant, linear equations and probabilities are commonly tested.
Establish a Target Score
Research the average scores for your target programmes. For many competitive programmes, aiming for a score above the average will help make your application stand out. At LBS, each Graduate Masters Programme has a different average for the GMAT and GRE. While the differences are not major, it is best to inform yourself on each programme’s specific threshold.
Test Preparation Top Tips
Use Official Materials
The best practice comes from official test materials. For the GMAT, use the Official Guide for GMAT Review and official practice tests. I extensively used the question banks provided by GMAT® for my preparation. The test provider provides a comprehensive and cost-efficient starter pack that covers every area of the test. These resources provide authentic questions that accurately reflect what you’ll encounter on test day.
Take Regular Practice Tests
Schedule full-length practice tests throughout your preparation period. These will help you build the right pace, familiarize yourself with actual test conditions, and track your progress towards your predetermined score target. Try to simulate test conditions as closely as possible by sitting at a desk, limiting distractions, and timing yourself strictly.
Develop Effective Time Management
When preparing for the GMAT, the most effective approach to time management is to try and stay close to the average time allotted for each question. If you can’t solve a problem within the allocated time, make your best educated guess and move on. Since you must answer each question before moving to the next, develop the skill of making educated guesses when necessary.
Final Preparation
In the week running up to the exam, forcing yourself to make minor lifestyle adjustments could drastically improve your performance during the official test. Most notably, ensure you get enough sleep not just the night before, but throughout the week leading up to your test. Make sure you stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals to maintain focus and energy. Finally, make sure to give your mind a break the day before the exam – these few extra hours won’t make much of a difference, aside from raising your stress levels.
Remember, while a strong test score is important, it’s just one component of your application. London Business School takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering your academic background, professional experience, and personal qualities alongside your test performance. Good luck with your preparation!