Many students often struggle when deciding which course to take, between the GRE vs. MCAT, when considering an advanced degree. Both are crucial for entering certain graduate or professional programs, but each exam has its own specific requirements and focus areas. Understanding the differences between the two will help you decide which is best suited to your academic goals.
The MCAT is specifically for those applying to medical school. At the same time, the GRE is a general graduate school admissions test required for many master’s, doctoral, and even some professional programs like law, business, and fine arts.
While many believe the MCAT is more difficult, the GRE also presents its own challenges. Let’s detail both exams to help you determine which might be more difficult based on your needs and goals.
What Is the MCAT?
The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a rigorous, standardized exam that is essential to the application process for almost all medical schools in North America. Administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), this test assesses your readiness for medical school. It’s not just about measuring what you know; the MCAT also tests how well you can apply that knowledge in scenarios that resemble real-world medical problems.
The MCAT is not a test you can cram for overnight. It’s comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics that require years of study and hands-on learning. But it’s also designed to ensure that the students who enter medical school are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. It’s about raw memorization and using your understanding in practical, often complex, contexts.
Sections of the MCAT
The MCAT is divided into four sections, each focusing on a different set of skills and knowledge areas that are fundamental for a career in medicine. Let’s dive into each section:
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
This section focuses on the fundamentals of biology and biochemistry. You’ll be tested on topics like cell biology, genetics, metabolism, and the biochemical pathways that sustain life. This is a critical section because understanding the biology of living systems is foundational to understanding human health and disease. - Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
Here, the exam tests your general chemistry and physics knowledge, specifically how they apply to biological systems. For example, you may encounter questions about the chemical reactions that occur within the body, the physical principles behind muscle contractions, or the transport of molecules across cell membranes. A solid understanding of these scientific principles is essential for understanding how the human body functions on a molecular and physical level. - Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
This section tests your knowledge of psychology and sociology and how these fields intersect with biology to affect human health. Topics might include the psychological factors that influence health behaviors, how mental health affects overall well-being, and how social determinants of health (like culture, socioeconomic status, and community support) play a role in health outcomes. This section highlights the importance of a well-rounded understanding of the physical aspects of medicine and the social and psychological elements. - Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
The Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section is somewhat like a reading comprehension test but with a twist. It evaluates your ability to analyze and apply reasoning to complex passages from various subjects, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Preparation for the MCAT
Preparing for the MCAT is no small task; effective preparation requires a focused approach. The AAMC recommends around 240 hours of studying over the course of three months, though some students may need more time, depending on their prior knowledge and how fast they can pick up new concepts.
Your preparation will need to be multi-faceted. You will need to:
- Review core subjects: The MCAT is built on the assumption that you have a strong background in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology. If you’re missing key knowledge in these areas, you may need to take additional courses or spend extra time reviewing these subjects.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills: The MCAT is as much about applying knowledge as it is about having that knowledge. Expect to face questions that test your ability to analyze complex problems and reason through them.
- Sharpen your reading and writing skills: The CARS section requires reading lengthy and dense passages and extracting meaning from them. So, being able to read quickly and efficiently is key. Additionally, developing your ability to reason through written material and identify key arguments and conclusions will be crucial.
While the MCAT requires subject-specific knowledge, it also tests your overall thinking skills and ability to approach complex problems. Many students find it helpful to supplement their learning with MCAT prep courses or practice tests to gauge their strengths and weaknesses. These resources can help you determine where to focus your time during your preparation.
Length and Scoring
The MCAT is a long exam, taking about 7.5 hours to complete, including scheduled breaks. The length of the exam can be mentally and physically demanding, so preparing yourself for the endurance required on test day is just as important as studying the content.
In terms of scoring, the MCAT uses a scaled scoring system:
- Your total score will range from 472 to 528.
- Each of the four sections is scored individually on a scale of 118 to 132.
A score of around 500 is often seen as average, while a score above 510 is considered competitive for most medical schools. However, each medical school may have different score requirements, so it’s a good idea to research the schools you’re applying to and understand what scores they typically accept.
Why It’s Important
The MCAT is crucial for your medical school application. Your score reflects your academic preparedness and ability to manage the demanding medical school coursework. Given its importance, it’s vital to approach your preparation seriously. A high score can make you competitive at top schools, while a low score may limit your options.
Though the MCAT can be intimidating, it helps medical schools assess readiness for the challenges of medical education and the medical profession. With enough time and effort devoted to studying, you can ensure you’re prepared. This will bring you one step closer to your goal of becoming a physician.
What Is the GRE?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a widely used standardized test required for admission to many graduate schools across various disciplines, including business, law, and the arts. Unlike the MCAT, which is specific to medical school, the GRE is a more general exam designed to measure the skills essential for graduate-level study success. These skills include verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The GRE is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is available throughout the year, offering flexibility for students preparing for graduate school applications.
The GRE is not focused on any one subject area like the MCAT. Instead, it tests general academic skills that are applicable across a wide range of graduate programs, from humanities to science and everything in between. The exam assesses how well candidates can handle the critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing tasks required during graduate school.
Sections of the GRE
The GRE consists of three primary sections, each assessing a different aspect of your academic skills. Here’s a closer look at each section:
- Verbal Reasoning
This section evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written material, reason through verbal concepts, and recognize relationships between words and ideas. You’ll be asked to read passages, interpret their meaning, and answer questions that test your comprehension and critical thinking. The verbal reasoning section also assesses your ability to recognize relationships between words, including the meaning of words in context and the relationships between ideas. Strong performance in this section requires a solid vocabulary and the ability to think critically about written material. - Quantitative Reasoning
The quantitative reasoning section measures your mathematical skills, focusing on areas like algebra, geometry, and basic statistics. The questions assess your ability to reason quantitatively, solve problems, and interpret data. Unlike highly specialized math tests, this section is designed to test your general mathematical reasoning skills rather than advanced concepts. You’ll encounter problems that test your understanding of math concepts in practical, real-world contexts. While having a deep understanding of advanced mathematics is unnecessary, being comfortable with foundational math and data interpretation is key. - Analytical Writing
The analytical writing section evaluates your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and coherently in writing. It tests your ability to organize your thoughts, present arguments, and support your points effectively with clear reasoning. In this section, you’ll be asked to write two essays: one analyzing an argument and the other analyzing an issue. Each essay tests your ability to think critically, structure your writing, and communicate ideas effectively. Strong writing skills are crucial, and practice is essential to ensure that you can present well-organized and persuasive responses.
Preparation for the GRE
Unlike the MCAT, which requires specific scientific knowledge, GRE preparation focuses on refining general academic skills. Many students find the GRE easier because it doesn’t demand specialized subject knowledge. However, the test is adaptive. The questions get harder if you answer correctly. This adds difficulty and requires thorough preparation.
When preparing for the GRE, focus on improving verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and writing skills. Depending on your strengths, you may need to spend more time on one section. The good news is you don’t need specialized subject knowledge. Instead, you develop reasoning and writing abilities in a general academic context.
Most students spend between 50 and 200 hours preparing for the GRE. The exact study time varies depending on your baseline skills and the score requirements for your graduate program. Some students may need more time, while others can prepare faster. Using GRE prep materials, such as practice tests and study guides, can help you identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement.
Length and Scoring
The GRE is a shorter exam than the MCAT, lasting around 3 hours and 45 minutes. It is divided into three main sections, with a brief break in between. The GRE is designed to assess a wide range of skills, but it’s not as lengthy or demanding as the MCAT.
- Total Score: The total score for the GRE ranges from 260 to 340, split between the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections, with each section scoring between 130 and 170 points.
- Analytical Writing: The analytical writing section is scored separately, ranging from 0 to 6 points. Essays are scored based on your ability to organize ideas, develop a coherent argument, and demonstrate critical thinking.
In general, a score above 300 is considered competitive for many graduate programs, but each program may have different score requirements. It’s a good idea to research the specific programs you’re interested in to understand what scores they typically accept.
Why It’s Important
The GRE is a key part of many graduate school applications. A strong performance can boost your chances of getting into your desired program. While it’s not as specialized as the MCAT, it’s still important in showing your readiness for graduate-level study. A high GRE score can set you apart from other applicants. It may also open doors to scholarships or funding opportunities.
Preparing for and performing well on the GRE is an important part of your journey to graduate school. With the right preparation, you can increase your chances of getting into your chosen program. This applies regardless of the field you’re pursuing. Whether you’re aiming for business school, law school, or a program in the humanities or sciences, the GRE is a valuable tool. It helps demonstrate your readiness to succeed in graduate studies.
GRE vs. MCAT: Side-by-Side
When deciding whether to take the MCAT or the GRE, understanding their key differences can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a structured and detailed comparison to guide you through their similarities and distinctions:
1. Purpose
| Feature | GRE | MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | General test for admissions to various graduate programs (e.g., business, law, engineering, social sciences) | Specific test for admission to medical school, testing core sciences relevant to medicine |
| Focus | General academic skills: critical thinking, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning | Medical knowledge and scientific principles: biology, chemistry, physics, and social sciences |
2. Sections
| Feature | GRE | MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | Measures ability to solve problems involving basic math concepts, interpret data and analyze quantitative information | N/A |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Measures ability to solve problems involving basic math concepts, interpret data, and analyze quantitative information | N/A |
| Analytical Writing | Includes two tasks: analyzing an argument and analyzing an issue to assess the ability to think critically and communicate ideas | N/A |
| Biological and Biochemical Foundations | N/A | Focuses on biology and biochemistry related to living systems |
| Chemical and Physical Foundations | N/A | Tests knowledge of chemistry, physics, and biochemistry in the context of biological systems |
| Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations | N/A | Covers psychology and sociology with a focus on medical application |
| Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills | N/A | Tests ability to analyze and evaluate written material, understand relationships between words and use vocabulary effectively |
3. Test Length
| Feature | GRE | MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Test Duration | Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes | Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes |
| Breaks | One 10-minute break between the two major sections | Multiple breaks, each lasting 10 minutes during the exam |
| Time Per Section | Varies, but no section exceeds 1 hour | Sections last 1 hour to 1.5 hours, with the entire exam being quite long and physically demanding |
4. Study Hours
| Feature | GRE | MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Study Time | 50 to 200+ hours depending on preparedness level | 240+ hours, with most students studying for 3-6 months before taking the test |
| Study Focus | Focus on general academic skills: quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and writing | Intensive focus on medical sciences: biology, chemistry, physics, social sciences, and critical analysis |
| Study Approach | Self-study or prep courses, including online resources, books, and practice tests | Medical-focused prep, with specialized resources, textbooks, review books, practice tests, and possibly live courses |
5. Cost
| Feature | GRE | MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Base Cost | $205 | $310 |
| Additional Fees | Fees for late registration, rescheduling, score reporting | Fees for rescheduling, additional score reports, or special accommodations |
| Score Reports | Includes sending scores to up to 4 schools for free | Includes sending scores to medical schools for free; additional fees for sending to more schools |
6. Scoring
| Feature | GRE | MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Range | 340 points (170 per section for Verbal & Quantitative, 0-6 for Analytical Writing) | 472-528 (118-132 per section) |
| Scoring Breakdown | Verbal & Quantitative are each scored between 130 and 170 points | Each section is scored between 118 and 132 points, based on performance |
| Average Score | Average GRE scores for accepted students in many programs range from 300 to 320 | Average MCAT scores for medical school admissions typically range from 500 to 510 |
| Focus on Subscores | Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning are weighted equally | Medical schools tend to focus more on the individual section scores to assess competency in relevant areas |
Bottom Line
The GRE and MCAT are important exams for graduate school admissions, but they serve very different purposes. The GRE is a more general test accepted by a wide range of graduate programs, while the MCAT is specifically designed for students pursuing a career in medicine. The MCAT is much longer and requires more preparation time due to its specialized content and the demands of medical school. On the other hand, the GRE is more flexible and generally less time-consuming.
Understanding these key differences between the GRE vs. MCAT can help you choose the right exam based on your career goals and the programs you’re interested in.
Preparation: GRE vs. MCAT
Preparing for the MCAT
When it comes to preparing for the MCAT, you’ll need a solid foundation in a wide range of science-related topics. The exam tests knowledge across four main sections, all of which require a strong understanding of undergraduate-level content. Here’s a closer look at what to expect and how to prepare:
Content Knowledge
- Biology: You’ll need a good grasp of human biology, molecular biology, genetics, and cellular biology. Key areas like the human body’s systems and diseases are crucial.
- Chemistry: Both general and organic chemistry are tested. Expect questions on chemical reactions, the behavior of molecules, and their interactions, especially in biological systems.
- Physics: You’ll need a solid understanding of concepts such as mechanics, energy, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism and how they apply to biological systems.
- Psychology and Sociology: The MCAT tests your understanding of psychological and sociological concepts, particularly related to human behavior, mental health, social structures, and their impacts on health.
- Biochemistry: The MCAT includes first-semester biochemistry, so understanding proteins, enzymes, metabolic pathways, and how energy is utilized in the body is essential.
Practice Tests
- The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) provides practice exams and study materials, which are extremely valuable in preparing. Taking practice tests will help you become familiar with the test’s format and timing, allowing you to assess where you need improvement.
- Aim to take full-length practice tests regularly as they will simulate the actual exam experience, which is a grueling 7.5 hours of testing.
Study Time
- The AAMC recommends that students dedicate about 240 hours to MCAT preparation over the course of three months. This doesn’t include the time you’ll spend studying the coursework (biology, chemistry, etc.), so planning your time carefully is critical.
- You must be disciplined with your study schedule, as MCAT prep is extensive. Breaking down the material into manageable sections and studying consistently will help you stay on track.
Study Resources
- In addition to the AAMC study materials, you’ll want to consider other resources like prep courses, study guides, and test prep books. Some students find structured courses, either online or in-person, to be especially helpful as they provide expert guidance, personalized feedback, and practice exams.
- Online platforms, such as Khan Academy and various MCAT prep services, offer free or paid content that can supplement your study plan. Make sure to find the right mix of resources that fits your learning style.
Focus on Weak Areas
- When you take practice tests, make sure to review not just the answers you got wrong but also the ones you got right. Understanding why you answered correctly (or incorrectly) helps reinforce your learning.
- For areas where you struggle the most, consider revisiting specific content, practicing more problems, or seeking extra help. You might also find a study group beneficial to discuss difficult topics with others.
Preparing for the GRE
When preparing for the GRE, you’ll find that the exam is more general, testing a wide range of skills across three main sections. The GRE doesn’t require the same deep subject knowledge as the MCAT. Instead, it evaluates how well you can apply academic skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing, across different areas.
Verbal Reasoning
- This section tests your ability to understand and analyze written material. You’ll encounter questions that require you to interpret text, make inferences, and understand the meanings of words in context. To prepare, focus on expanding your vocabulary and practicing reading comprehension exercises.
- If you’re aiming for a higher score in this section, it’s important to read widely—especially complex texts from various fields. Pay attention to sentence structure and the author’s tone and argument.
Quantitative Reasoning
- This section tests your ability to reason with numbers and solve mathematical problems. You don’t need advanced math skills, but you do need to be comfortable with algebra, arithmetic, data analysis, and basic geometry.
- If math is your weak point, you can focus your study on brushing up on math fundamentals. You can also solve practice problems to get familiar with the question format and time constraints.
Analytical Writing
- In this section, you’ll be asked to write two essays: one analyzing an argument and the other analyzing an issue. Your ability to construct a well-organized, clear, and persuasive argument will be tested.
- Practice writing essays under time constraints. Aim to structure your essays clearly with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Focus on making your arguments compelling and supported by examples.
Study Time
- The amount of study time for the GRE varies greatly from person to person. Many students find that 50-150 hours of preparation is sufficient, though this will depend on your starting score and goals. If you’re aiming for a competitive score, you may need more time.
- Start by taking a practice test to assess your baseline skills. This will give you an idea of your strengths and weaknesses so you can focus your study time effectively.
Study Resources
- You can use free online materials such as the ETS website, which offers official prep materials, or paid prep courses like those from Kaplan or Princeton Review. Many people also find that test prep books and apps are helpful for review.
- It’s a good idea to set up a study schedule that includes both practice questions and timed full-length tests. This will help you get used to the pacing of the exam.
Targeting Specific Sections
- The GRE is a general test, so preparing for it can be more flexible. If you’re applying for a program that requires strong performance in verbal reasoning (like English, communications, or law), focus more on building vocabulary and improving reading comprehension skills.
- For more math-heavy fields like engineering, business, or economics, you’ll want to prioritize quantitative reasoning. Be sure to adjust your prep plan according to your specific program’s needs.
Time Management
The GRE is a timed exam, so practice managing your time effectively during each section. Use practice tests to simulate test day conditions and ensure you can finish each section within the allotted time.
Testing Day: GRE vs. MCAT
Regarding the test day experience, the MCAT and GRE offer different structures, schedules, and flexibility. Here’s a more detailed GRE vs. MCAT comparison of what you can expect on testing day for each exam:
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
Location & Schedule:
- The MCAT is administered only at official testing centers, and you must register in advance for a specific test date.
- The test is offered at scheduled times throughout the year, typically from January to September, and you must plan ahead to secure a spot. Limited dates and locations are available, so signing up early is important.
Duration:
- The MCAT is a much longer exam, lasting a total of 7.5 hours. This includes breaks between sections, but it still demands a lot of mental endurance.
- The test is divided into four sections, and you’ll need to stay focused for several hours straight to complete it. Some test-takers report feeling physically and mentally exhausted by the end due to its length and the required concentration level.
Breaks:
- You get short breaks between sections, but the total time for the test itself is quite demanding. Ensure you’re prepared with snacks or drinks allowed during these breaks to stay refreshed and focused.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
Location & Schedule:
- The GRE offers more flexibility compared to the MCAT. The test is available year-round, meaning you can schedule it whenever works best for you.
- Additionally, you can choose to take the GRE at home if you meet the necessary technical requirements (such as having a quiet room and appropriate equipment). This option can be especially convenient for those who want to avoid traveling to a test center.
Duration:
- The GRE is significantly shorter than the MCAT, lasting about 3 hours and 45 minutes. This makes it much less physically exhausting.
- The test is broken down into three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, with a shorter overall time frame to complete it.
Flexibility & Convenience:
- If you need flexibility in scheduling or would prefer to take the test in the comfort of your home, the GRE offers that option, while the MCAT does not. This makes the GRE a more convenient choice for students with busy schedules or who live far from testing centers.
Fees: GRE vs. MCAT
Both the MCAT and GRE require payment to take the test, but the costs differ. Here’s an overview of the typical fees for each exam:
GRE Fees
- The GRE is generally cheaper compared to the MCAT. The standard cost is around $205.
- However, you should keep in mind that if you’re taking the GRE at home, you’ll need to ensure your equipment meets the test’s technical requirements, which may involve some additional costs for setting up.
MCAT Fees
- The MCAT is more expensive, with the cost usually around $310.
- This higher fee is partly due to the longer test duration, more extensive content, and the fact that it’s a specialized test for medical school admissions.
Fee Assistance
- Both the GRE and MCAT offer financial assistance for students who meet certain criteria.
- GRE: If you demonstrate financial need, receive unemployment benefits, or qualify for national assistance programs, you may be eligible for a fee reduction or discount.
- MCAT: The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) provides a Fee Assistance Program for eligible students. This program helps cover the testing fee and may also provide low-cost or free study materials.
Which Is Harder, the GRE or the MCAT?
When comparing the GRE and the MCAT, it’s important to recognize that each test presents unique challenges. However, for most people, the MCAT is generally seen as the harder of the two. Let’s break down why that is and explore how the difficulty of the GRE vs. MCAT can depend on your personal strengths, background, and the program you’re applying to.
Why the MCAT Is Considered Harder
- Length and Intensity
The MCAT is no quick affair—it spans a full 7.5 hours. That alone makes it an endurance test. The length of the test, combined with its rigorous content, demands a level of focus and stamina that many test-takers find exhausting. The MCAT requires you to maintain concentration for hours while juggling complex topics, making time management and mental endurance critical factors in your success. - Specialized Content Knowledge
One of the biggest challenges with the MCAT is that it tests very specific knowledge across several scientific disciplines. It’s not just about understanding general concepts; it’s about mastering material in:- BiologyBiochemistryChemistry (both organic and general)PhysicsPsychology and SociologyCritical reasoning and analysis
- Competition and Importance
The MCAT isn’t just a test of your academic knowledge—it plays a crucial role in your admission to medical schools, which are highly competitive. Medical school admissions are fiercely competitive, and a high MCAT score is often essential to stand out among thousands of applicants. This high-stakes nature means the pressure to perform well is much greater, further adding to the test’s difficulty. - Preparation Time
Preparing for the MCAT requires a significant investment of time. The AAMC (the organization behind the MCAT) recommends about 240 hours of study time over the course of 3 months. This includes going over all the subject matter as well as practicing your test-taking strategies. Given the depth and complexity of the material, many students also enroll in prep courses to give them the structure and resources they need to succeed.
Why the GRE Can Be Challenging Too
While the GRE is often viewed as easier than the MCAT, that doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park. The GRE is a general test that measures your readiness for graduate-level programs, including business, law, and other fields. While it doesn’t go into the same depth as the MCAT, it still presents its own challenges.
- Broad Range of Content
The GRE covers a wide range of academic skills, testing your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing abilities. Unlike the MCAT, which focuses heavily on scientific knowledge, the GRE evaluates how well you can think critically and solve problems across various disciplines. This includes:- Verbal reasoning: Tests vocabulary, reading comprehension, and your ability to analyze written material.
- Quantitative reasoning: Tests math skills, including basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Analytical writing: Requires you to write two essays demonstrating your ability to articulate ideas clearly and logically.
- Adaptive Testing
The GRE uses a computer-adaptive format. This means that as you answer questions correctly, the difficulty of subsequent questions increases, which can make the test feel progressively harder. This adds an element of unpredictability to the exam, and it can be tough to adjust on the fly as the questions increase in difficulty. - Different Test-Taking Skills
The GRE doesn’t require the same deep subject matter expertise as the MCAT, but it still tests your ability to think critically across a variety of academic areas. You’ll need to be able to quickly comprehend passages, perform complex math calculations, and write clear, persuasive essays. The challenge here lies in having to juggle multiple types of thinking: reading comprehension, logic, and numerical reasoning. - Preparation Time
Preparation for the GRE varies significantly depending on your baseline abilities. While some students can get by with 50 hours of study, others may need closer to 200 hours to feel fully prepared. This is because the GRE tests a broader range of skills, and how much you need to study depends on your strengths and weaknesses in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and writing.
Which Test Is Harder for You?
Ultimately, the difficulty of the GRE vs. MCAT is subjective. It depends on a variety of factors, including your academic background and strengths:
- If you have a strong foundation in science and enjoy studying complex, in-depth material, the MCAT may be more suited to your strengths, but the sheer length and intensity of the test will still make it a tough challenge.
- On the other hand, if you excel in reading comprehension, critical thinking, and math, you may find the GRE to be more manageable. However, the GRE’s broad scope and adaptive testing format can still present a challenge that requires strategic preparation.
Conclusion: It’s All About Your Goals
In the end, the test that’s “harder” for you will come down to your individual skills, experience, and career goals. For students applying to medical school, the MCAT is the necessary (and likely more difficult) test, requiring extensive preparation and mastery of a wide range of scientific subjects. Meanwhile, the GRE is the go-to test for many graduate programs, offering a broader but still challenging measure of your academic abilities.
Both tests are rigorous and require dedicated study time, but the MCAT is generally regarded as the more difficult of the two, particularly due to its focused scientific content and the high pressure of medical school admissions. Regardless of which exam you need to take between the GRE vs. MCAT, understanding the requirements of the program you’re applying to and preparing effectively are key to performing your best.