GRE vs TOEFL: Know the Difference Between GRE & TOEFL

 The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are standardized tests often required for admission to universities abroad. While they serve different purposes, both are important for international students. Here’s a comparison to help you understand the differences:


1. Purpose

  • GRE

    • Assesses: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
    • Target Audience: Students applying for graduate, business, or doctoral programs.
    • Focus: Academic skills (reasoning and analytical abilities).
    • Required By: Most U.S. and international universities for admissions to master’s and Ph.D. programs.
  • TOEFL

    • Assesses: English language proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
    • Target Audience: Non-native English speakers.
    • Focus: English skills in an academic context.
    • Required By: Universities and colleges in English-speaking countries for any course of study.

2. Content

  • GRE

    • Sections:
      • Verbal Reasoning: Tests comprehension and vocabulary.
      • Quantitative Reasoning: Tests math skills and problem-solving ability.
      • Analytical Writing: Evaluates critical thinking and essay-writing skills.
    • Duration: ~3 hours and 45 minutes.
  • TOEFL

    • Sections:
      • Reading: Understand and analyze written material.
      • Listening: Comprehend spoken English in academic settings.
      • Speaking: Express ideas fluently in English.
      • Writing: Write essays effectively in English.
    • Duration: ~4 hours.

3. Scoring System

  • GRE

    • Scale:
      • Verbal: 130–170
      • Quantitative: 130–170
      • Analytical Writing: 0–6
    • Total: Composite score out of 340 (Verbal + Quant).
  • TOEFL

    • Scale:
      • Reading: 0–30
      • Listening: 0–30
      • Speaking: 0–30
      • Writing: 0–30
    • Total: Composite score out of 120.

4. Validity and Frequency

  • GRE

    • Validity: 5 years.
    • Offered: Throughout the year.
  • TOEFL

    • Validity: 2 years.
    • Offered: Over 60 times a year at test centers globally.

5. Cost

  • GRE: Approx. $205–$230, depending on the location.
  • TOEFL: Approx. $190, depending on the location.

6. Who Needs It?

  • GRE: Required for graduate and business school applicants.
  • TOEFL: Required for non-native English speakers applying to undergraduate or graduate programs in English-speaking institutions.

7. Key Takeaway

  • If you’re applying to a graduate or doctoral program, you may need both tests. The GRE demonstrates your academic ability, while the TOEFL proves your English proficiency.
  • For non-English programs in English-speaking countries, only the TOEFL may suffice.

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