GMAT, GRE, & EA - Breakdown of the MBA Application's Standardized Tests

Note: This article was originally written in 2023 and updated as of June 2026.

The GMAT has long been the flagship standardized test for MBA admissions. While no one enjoys taking standardized tests—especially one as challenging as the GMAT—it has traditionally served as a key way for candidates to demonstrate academic readiness and competitiveness.

This is particularly true for international applicants and those with weaker academic backgrounds.

However, over the past few years, both applicant behavior and school preferences have shifted. More candidates are exploring alternatives such as the GRE, Executive Assessment (EA), and test waivers—and MBA programs themselves have become increasingly receptive to these options.

In response, the GMAT has evolved.

In this post, I’ll break down the current testing landscape, including the GMAT Focus Edition, and how to think about choosing the right option.

Test Options

GMAT (Legacy Version – Pre-2024)

Historically, the GMAT was the most widely used MBA admissions test.

It consisted of four sections:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

• Integrated Reasoning (IR)

• Quantitative Reasoning

• Verbal Reasoning

Both the Quantitative and Verbal sections were computer-adaptive, meaning each question’s difficulty adjusted based on your previous answers.

This format often created anxiety for test-takers, as many would overanalyze whether they were “doing well” based on perceived difficulty.

The test lasted approximately 3.5 hours and was widely considered demanding.

Note: This version has now been fully phased out although most schools are still accepting scores that fall within the five years where the score has not expired.

GMAT Focus Edition (Current Version)

The GMAT Focus Edition is now the standard GMAT format.

Key changes include:

• Shorter duration (~2 hours 15 minutes)

• Removal of the Analytical Writing section

• Introduction of a new Data Insights section (replacing Integrated Reasoning)

• Ability to review and change answers (up to 3 per section)

• Flexible section order

The three sections are now: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights

The test is also scored on a new scale (205–805), and provides more detailed performance insights.

Overall, the GMAT Focus is designed to feel more practical and less rigid, while still testing core analytical and reasoning skills. The addition of Data Insights reflects a stronger emphasis on interpreting and working with data—skills that are increasingly relevant in business.

*As of June 2026, GMAC has also introduced a “superscore” option, allowing applicants to combine their highest section scores across multiple test attempts into a single composite score.

While this may sound like a significant advantage, in practice, its impact is more limited. Many MBA programs already require applicants to submit all test attempts and evaluate performance holistically—looking for baseline competency as well as improvement over time.

Additionally, superscores are not currently factored into school rankings (as of this writing), which further reduces their influence. As a result, while the policy offers more flexibility for applicants, it’s more of a convenience feature than a game-changer.*

GRE

The GRE is now fully accepted by MBA programs and carries equal weight to the GMAT at most schools.

It includes:

• Verbal Reasoning

• Quantitative Reasoning

• Analytical Writing

A key advantage is flexibility: you can skip questions and return to them within each section, which many applicants find less stressful than the GMAT format. The test takes approximately 3 hours.

A common perception is that GRE Quant is easier while Verbal is harder—especially for international applicants. This is important, as many candidates assume the GRE will be “easier” overall, which is not always the case.

Executive Assessment (EA)

Originally designed for Executive MBA programs, the EA has become more widely accepted for some full-time MBA programs.

It includes:

• Integrated Reasoning

• Verbal Reasoning

• Quantitative Reasoning

The test is much shorter (90 minutes) and designed to require less preparation. However, a key limitation is acceptance—not all programs accept the EA, so this must be verified before committing.

Test Waivers

Since COVID-19, many programs have introduced test waivers.

These allow applicants to demonstrate academic readiness through alternative signals, such as:

• Strong quantitative coursework

• Professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CFA)

• Quant-heavy work experience

While appealing, test waivers are often misunderstood.

Without a test score, admissions committees place greater weight on other parts of the application. This means applicants with weaker academic backgrounds may actually be at a disadvantage using this route.

A waiver is not a shortcut but it can a strategic choice that depends on your profile.

So…Which Test Should You Take?

A few years ago, the answer was more straightforward: GMAT or GRE.

Today, the landscape is more flexible—but also more nuanced.

While schools are increasingly open to EA and test waivers, GMAT and GRE remain the most widely accepted and versatile options. I still recommend starting there for most applicants.

A practical approach:

• Give yourself a few months to prepare for GMAT or GRE

• Assess your performance honestly

• If progress is limited, consider EA or waiver options

Also keep in mind, some consulting firms still ask for GMAT scores.

Ultimately, the “best” test is the one that:

• You can perform well on

• Aligns with your target schools

• Fits your timeline and strengths

I’ve seen many applicants switch tests mid-process after realizing a different format suited them better. Spending time upfront understanding each option can save weeks—or months—of misaligned preparation.

Final Thoughts

Standardized testing is just one component of the MBA application—but it’s one that can significantly impact your positioning.

The trend is clear:

• More flexibility in test options

• Less rigid reliance on a single exam

• Greater emphasis on overall profile strength

That said, strong test performance still matters—especially for competitive programs.

The key is not just choosing a test—but choosing the right test for your specific situation.

If you’re unsure which test makes the most sense—or how it fits into your broader application strategy—I offer free 30-minute consultation calls where we map out your approach based on your goals, timeline, and target schools. Schedule here.

Further information/my source for details on the 2023 GMAT Focus Edition: US News