While the GRE and the SAT both measure reading, writing and mathematical skills, there are a number of key differences between the two tests. The most significant difference is how the tests are used. The GRE is required for admission to most graduate schools, while the SAT is used when applying to undergraduate schools. The GRE tests the progression, over the course of your undergraduate studies, of the college-level skills that the SAT initially evaluated. Both the GRE and SAT scores are valid for a period of 5 years.
Sections of the Test
The GRE Revised General Test has three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing. Similarly, the redesigned SAT has four tests, with the essay being optional. The three tests that everyone takes are the Reading, Writing and Language and Math. The SAT begins with the Reading, followed by the Writing and Language, Essay and Math. The GRE also begins with the Analytical Writing section, but it includes two essays that involve analyzing an issue and analyzing an argument. The following sections include two on Verbal Reasoning and two on Quantitative Reasoning.
Scoring
The redesigned SAT includes two section scores; Evidence based Reading and Writing which combines the results on the Reading test and the Writing and Language Test and the second is Math which combines the results on the calculator and no calculator math sections. Each of the two sections score between 200 to 800. Essay scores are reported separately and will not be included in the section scores. Your total score will range from 400 to 1600. In addition to the total score and section scores, the redesigned SAT will report three test scores that will range from 10 to 40. If you opt for the optional Essay, you will receive three separate essay scores: Reading, Analysis and Writing.
Unlike the paper-based SAT, the GRE is a computer-adaptive test, meaning that your performance affects the questions you see on the test. There are two scored sections each of critical reading and math, and the difficulty of the second section in each depends on your performance in the first. To get the highest possible scores, you must perform well on the first section to access the highest-difficulty questions. The GRE reports three scores, one for each of its sections: math and verbal on a scale of 130 to 170, and the essay-based analytic score between 0 and 6. The math and verbal scores are based on the number of questions correctly answered and converted to the scaled score based on the difficulty of the questions.
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FAQs
What is the difference between GRE and SAT exams?
A graduate schools entrance exam, the GRE emphasizes verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. On the other hand, the SAT is an undergraduate college admission test that evaluates reading, writing, and mathematical abilities. The GRE is primarily used for Master's or Doctoral programs, whereas the SAT is used for Bachelor's degree admissions.
Should I take the GRE or SAT for graduate school applications?
Commonly used for graduate school admissions, the GRE exam should be taken if it’s needed for the graduate program you’re seeking admission to. The SAT is primarily used for undergraduate admissions. Students should examine particular program prerequisites, as some may waive the GRE.
Which test is easier, the GRE or SAT?
In comparison to the GRE, the SAT is usually considered easier, as it is intended for high school students and focuses more on fundamental knowledge, whereas the GRE is intended for graduate school candidates and entails more advanced content and reasoning abilities.
Can you use SAT scores for graduate school admissions?
No, SAT scores are not commonly used for graduate school admissions; alternatively, based on the program, exams like the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT are essential.
How do GRE and SAT scoring systems differ?
The GRE is graded on a scale of 130–170 per segment for Verbal and Quantitative, whereas the SAT is evaluated on a 400–1600 point scale, combining Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math. The GRE is used for graduate school admissions, whereas the SAT is used for undergraduate admissions.
What subjects are tested on the GRE versus the SAT?
Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing are all evaluated on the GRE, whereas the SAT emphasizes reading, writing and language, math, and an optional essay (now discontinued in the majority of cases). The GRE is used for graduate school admissions, while the SAT is used for undergraduate admissions.
How do I decide between GRE and SAT for my university applications?
If you are applying for undergraduate programs choose the SAT, and the GRE if you're applying for graduate (master's or PhD) programs. Review the prerequisites of each university to confirm which test is required.
Are GRE scores required for all graduate programs?
No, all graduate programs do not require GRE scores. Requirements differ depending on the school and program, with many now providing GRE-optional or GRE-free admissions.
Is SAT a better option for undergrad admissions compared to GRE?
The SAT is intended for undergraduate admissions, whereas the GRE is commonly used for graduate programs; thus, the SAT is the better and more relevant alternative for undergraduate admissions.
How do preparation strategies differ for GRE and SAT?
GRE preparation emphasizes advanced vocabulary, analytical writing, and quantitative reasoning, whereas SAT preparation focuses on fundamental math, evidence-based reading, and grammatical abilities suited for high school-level content.
