If you're considering applying to graduate school, you may be wondering which standardized test you should take – the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Both exams are widely accepted by universities, but they test different skills and are geared towards different audiences. In this blog, we'll go over the key differences between the GRE and TOEFL, so you can choose the test that best fits your needs.
GRE Vs TOEFL
What is the GRE?
The GRE is a general aptitude test that measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It is designed to evaluate your ability to think critically, analyze and solve problems, and communicate effectively. The GRE is typically required for admission to graduate programs in fields like business, law, engineering, and education, among others.
What is the TOEFL?
The TOEFL is a test of English language proficiency for non-native English speakers. It measures your ability to understand and use English in academic settings, such as a university. The TOEFL is commonly required for admission to graduate programs in fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) as well as in the arts and humanities.
Key Differences between GRE and TOEFL
Format: The GRE is a computer-based test that takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The TOEFL is also a computer-based test, but it takes 4 hours to complete.
Subject Matter: The GRE measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, while the TOEFL measures your ability to use English in an academic context.
Cost
The GRE costs $205, while the TOEFL costs $160.
Acceptance: The GRE is accepted by more graduate programs than the TOEFL, but the TOEFL is more widely accepted by universities in English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Scoring: The GRE scores range from 130 to 170 in one-point increments for both the verbal and quantitative sections, and from 0 to 6 in half-point increments for the analytical writing section. The range of TOEFL scores is 0 to 120.
Which Test Should You Take?
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your field of study, the universities you're considering, and your language proficiency. If you're a non-native English speaker and your field of study requires a high level of English proficiency, you should take the TOEFL. If you're applying to a graduate program in a field like business or law, you should take the GRE.
Conclusion
The GRE and TOEFL are both valuable standardized tests for graduate school applicants, but they measure different skills and are designed for different audiences. By understanding the key differences between these two exams, you can choose the test that best fits your needs and helps you reach your graduate school dreams.
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