GRE vs. IELTS | Know the differences

GRE vs. IELTS Exam |A brief

Even though GRE vs. IELTS are two of the most popular and generally acknowledged exams, they differ from one another and are both very important factors in the admissions process. You can enroll in the college of your dreams if you receive top test scores.

The GRE and IELTS have the same goal, yet they are different in some ways. In contrast to the IELTS, a language test exam, the GRE tests students’ analytical, verbal, and mathematical thinking abilities. Students frequently become confused when it comes to understanding the differences between the GRE and the IELTS.

GRE vs. IELTS Exam | Overview

Let’s quickly review the two exams before moving on to the differences between the GRE and IELTS-

• GRE | What is it?

Most study-abroad institutions accept the Graduate Record Examinations or GRE for graduate programs. The test is set up to evaluate the student’s verbal and quantitative abilities. The Educational Testing Agency (ETS), a private, non-profit organization headquartered in the US, administers this globally standardized test. The exam is offered in two formats: paper-based and online.

• IELTS | What is it?

A language assessment tool that can gauge pupils’ language proficiency is called the International English Language Testing System, or IELTS. Students’ reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities are evaluated on this test.

The test was initially presented in 1989 and is now jointly administered by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English. The exam is offered both paper-based and computer-based.

IELTS vs. GRE | A Brief comparison

While IELTS requires international students to demonstrate their English language proficiency, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test for graduate-level study. Most universities look at your GRE score to confirm that you are qualified to take graduate-level coursework. On the other hand, IELTS test results guarantee that you are proficient enough in the English language.

The following IELTS and GRE difference table will provide you with a quick overview of some major elements of both exams while also emphasizing their primary differences-

Particulars	GRE	IELTS
Frequency of the exam	5 times	48 times
Range of the score	260-340	32-36
Computer-based	No	Yes
Time frame	3 hours & 45 minutes	2 hours and 55 minutes
Total number of questions asked	MCQ based: 80;Unscored research section: 20	85 questions
Examination fees	213 USD	200 USD

Differences in GRE VS IELTS

The GRE and IELTS are two distinct tests, and there are 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-

• Eligibility criteria

There are no precise requirements for taking IELTS that must be met. In general, you can apply for the exam if you have completed your 12th level of study. Most students from a non-English speaking nation who wish to continue their education in abroad schools take this exam.

You don’t have to fulfill any particular eligibility requirements to take the GRE. Regardless of age or education, anyone interested in studying abroad may apply for the exam. Most students pursuing a master’s degree are eligible to take this test.

• Exam fees

The GRE General test costs 228 USD for international applicants, which is approximately 18,794 INR for Indian students. However, the cost of the GRE application may differ from nation to nation.

On the other hand, regional variations in IELTS application fees also exist. You must pay 199 USD and 15,500 INR for registration to take this test. In addition, there is a chance that you will incur additional costs for things like late fees, exam center changes, cancellations, etc.

Key takeaways

• While the IELTS is a language test necessary for every non-native student, the GRE test scores are typically needed for admission to graduate programs at foreign universities.

• The method used to assess your aptitude level is where GRE and IELTS differ most.

• It’s difficult to choose between the two, but it gets easier if you understand the exam options and how IELTS and GRE differ.

Like this blog? Read more about- GRE sample test

FAQ’s

Question 1: Which of the GRE and IELTS is simpler?

Answer: IELTS is easier than the GRE because it primarily assesses language proficiency, making it simpler to prepare for IELTS than the GRE.

Question 2: What distinguishes the GRE from the IELTS?

Answer: The IELTS is a language test required by overseas students from non-English speaking nations, whereas the GRE is a worldwide standardized test required for masters-level entrance.

Question 3: How many times may I apply for the GRE and IELTS in a year?

Answer: Unlike the GRE, which is only taken five times per year, the IELTS can be taken 48 times in a calendar year.