The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are standardized tests, but they serve distinct purposes, target different audiences, and evaluate separate skills. Understanding their differences is crucial for students planning international graduate studies.
Purpose and Target Audience
- GRE: A graduate admissions test required by many master's and PhD programs worldwide, especially in the US, Canada, and Europe. It assesses readiness for advanced academic work in fields like business (MBA), engineering, sciences, humanities, and law (some programs accept GRE instead of LSAT). It's for native and non-native English speakers alike.
- TOEFL: An English proficiency exam for non-native speakers applying to English-medium universities. It's mandatory if your prior education wasn't in English, proving you can handle coursework. Accepted by over 11,000 institutions in 150+ countries.
Skills Tested
- GRE: Focuses on critical thinking and academic skills:
- Analytical Writing: 1 essay (30 minutes) arguing a position.
- Verbal Reasoning: Vocabulary, reading comprehension, text completion (2 sections, ~60 minutes total).
- Quantitative Reasoning: Math problems in algebra, geometry, data analysis (2 sections, ~70 minutes; calculator allowed).
- Format: Computer-adaptive; 3 hours 45 minutes. Scores: 130–170 (Verbal/Quant), 0–6 (Writing). Valid 5 years.
- TOEFL: Measures English language proficiency:
- Reading: Academic passages (3–4, 54–72 minutes).
- Listening: Lectures/conversations (28–39 questions).
- Speaking: 4 tasks (e.g., express opinion; 17 minutes).
- Writing: Integrated (read/listen/write) + independent essay (50 minutes).
- Format: Internet-based (iBT); 3 hours. Scores: 0–30 per section (120 total). Valid 2 years. Paper-based option in some regions.
Key Differences Summary
| Aspect | GRE | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Graduate program aptitude | English proficiency |
| Who Takes It | All grad applicants | Non-native English speakers |
| Content | Math, reasoning, writing | English skills only |
| Duration | ~3.75 hours | ~3 hours |
| Cost (approx.) | $205–220 | $180–300 (varies by country) |
| Prep Focus | Subject knowledge + strategy | Vocabulary + fluency |
In short, take the GRE for academic potential in grad school; take the TOEFL to prove English competency. Many international students need both. Check university requirements early some waive TOEFL for high GRE Verbal scores or prior English education.