SAT vs GMAT: Complete Comparison
Updated on 01 April, 2024
Anupriya Mukherjee
Sr. Content Writer
)When it comes to the SAT vs GMAT debate, you should evaluate both these standardized tests on the basis of purpose and other multiple parameters. In 2023, the SAT exam , or Scholastic Aptitude Test, was taken by 1.9 million students.
On the other hand, the GMAT exam, or Graduate Management Admission Test, was taken by 108,851 candidates in the same year. So how are these two popular tests different? Here’s finding out.
Table of Contents
SAT vs GMAT: Key Differences
Here’s decoding the SAT vs GMAT debate through the below highlights on two exams.
| Parameter | SAT | GMAT |
| Target/Purpose | High school students applying for undergraduate admissions | Those applying to study in business school for MBA and other programs |
| Conducting Body | College Board | GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) |
| Accepted By | 4,000+ universities and colleges in the USA and 85 global countries | 7,700+ programs at 2,400+ business schools globally |
| Test Sections | Reading and Writing Math |
Verbal Reasoning Quantitative Reasoning Data Insights |
| Test Duration | 3 hours (additional 15 minutes with breaks). It takes 3 hours and 50 minutes with the optional essay | 2 hours and 15 minutes with an optional 10-minute break |
| Test Type | The first module in every section has a mixture of easy, hard, and medium questions. The second module may be less/more difficult based on the performance in the first module | Computer adaptive with each question chosen on the basis of the aspirant’s ability
|
| Score | 400-1600 | 205-805 |
| Validity | Technically no expiry date | Five years |
| Number of Attempts | As many times as the candidate wants | Five attempts in a rolling 12-month duration and eight in a lifetime |
| Fee | US$60 for registration and $43 as regional fee | US$300 for online and $275 for test center |
SAT vs GMAT: Eligibility Criteria
There are no specific eligibility criteria for the SAT exam. The only requirement is your 10th and 12th grade certificates. However, to be eligible for the GMAT exam, you must be 18 or above. You will also be required to have an undergraduate degree, since the GMAT scores are accepted for postgraduate courses like MBA and other management programs.
SAT vs GMAT: Exam Pattern
The GMAT Focus Edition comprises the following sections-
- Quantitative Reasoning- 21 questions and 45 minutes
- Verbal Reasoning- 23 questions and 45 minutes
- Data Insights- 20 questions and 45 minutes
The SAT exam comprises the following sections-
- Reading and Writing- 54 questions and 64 minutes
- Math- 44 questions and 70 minutes
SAT vs GMAT: Syllabus & Score Comparison
Here is the SAT syllabus-
Reading & Writing Section |
|
| Craft and Structure | Text structure and purpose, words in context, cross-text connections |
| Standard English Conventions | Boundaries, sense, form, and structure |
| Information and Ideas | Central ideas and details, evidence-based command on quantitative inferences, and textual |
| Expression of Ideas | Rhetorical synthesis transitions |
Math Section |
|
| Algebra | Linear equations, linear inequalities, systems of two linear equations in two variables, linear functions |
| Advanced Math | Systems of equations in two variables and nonlinear equations in one variable, nonlinear functions, equivalent expression |
| Data Analysis and Problem-Solving | Two-variable and one-variable data, probability, proportional relationships, rates, units, and ratios, percentages, evaluation of statistical claims, inference from a margin of error, and sample |
| Geometry and Trigonometry | Right triangles and trigonometry, area and volume, circles, triangles, angles, and lines |
Here’s a look at the scoring pattern of SAT-
| Total Score | 400-1600 |
| Reading and Writing Section Score | 200-800 |
| Math Section Score | 200-800 |
| Score Calculation Framework | 10 point intervals |
Below mentioned is the GMAT syllabus-
Section |
Content |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading comprehension, critical reasoning |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Problem solving, algebra and arithmetic |
| Data Insights | Multi-source reasoning, data sufficiency, table analysis, two-part analysis, graphics interpretation |
Here’s a look at the scoring pattern of GMAT-
| Total Score | 205-805 |
| Ranking System | Percentile Rankings (the percentage of test-takers that the candidate outperformed) |
| Score Calculation Framework | Percentile scores are rounded off to the nearest tenth |
More GMAT Related Articles:
SAT vs GMAT: Which One to Choose
GMAT is essential for obtaining admission into leading business schools across the world. The SAT, on the other hand, is vital for admissions into undergraduate universities and colleges worldwide. Hence, the purpose of taking both these examinations is different. You should first finalize your purpose before choosing the right examination for your needs.
More SAT Related Topics:
Download Free GMAT Preparation Guides
FAQs
Does SAT predict GMAT?
The SAT score is not a valid or reliable predictor for GMAT scores. It does not indicate how the aspirant may potentially perform in the GMAT examination. The two tests are completely different and should not be equated with one another.
Does Harvard prefer GMAT or GRE?
Harvard University prefers both the exams. Both scores are accepted by the university. If multiple test scores are submitted from GMAT/GRE, the individual score from the single highest test sitting will be taken into consideration.
Does Oxford prefer GRE or GMAT?
The University of Oxford accepts both GMAT and GRE scores. It does not prioritize any one of these tests over the other. In most cases, aspirants submit GMAT scores although both scores are equally accepted.
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