GRE vs TOEFL: Know the Key Difference Between GRE & TOEFL

GRE vs TOEFL: Know the Key Difference Between GRE & TOEFL

Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Mar 18, 2025 12:03 PM IST | #GRE
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GRE  Exam Date : 21 Apr' 2025 - 04 May' 2025

GRE vs TOEFL Exam 2025: Two of the common tests that Indian students need to be aware of while preparing to pursue master's studies abroad are GRE and TOEFL. Both exams are integral for getting admission into top universities in the world. Hence, it is crucial to understand GRE vs TOEFL exam for international students. Both exams, GRE and TOEFL serve different purposes and evaluate different candidates’ abilities.

This Story also Contains
  1. GRE vs TOEFL Exam: Key Highlights
  2. Differences Between GRE and TOEFL Exams
  3. GRE and TOEFL Full Form and Purpose
  4. GRE Vs TOEFL Exam Eligibility
  5. GRE and TOEFL Exam Fee: Which One is More Expensive?
  6. GRE Vs TOEFL Difficulty Level
  7. GRE and TOEFL Score Validity
  8. Which is Better: GRE vs TOEFL?
GRE vs TOEFL: Know the Key Difference Between GRE & TOEFL
GRE vs TOEFL: Know the Key Difference Between GRE & TOEFL

TOEFL is an English proficiency test, whereas GRE is a graduate level test that evaluates quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing abilities in order to pursue master courses abroad, especially US universities.

Still unsure about the key differences between GRE vs TOEFL? We have mentioned in detail about the GRE vs TOEFL which is better exam for international students as per their requirements. Give this article a thorough read to navigate through GRE and TOEFL full form, eligibility, fees, scoring pattern, preparation, and much more.

Also Read:

GRE vs TOEFL Exam: Key Highlights

Check the table to have a quick overview of TOEFL and GRE differences. It includes overall contrast in terms of GRE vs TOEFL cost, requirements, pattern, scores, etc. These are some of the crucial differences between GRE and TOEFL for Indian students for better study abroad planning.

GRE vs TOEFL: Quick Glance

Aspect

GRE Exam

TOEFL Exam

Full Form

Graduate Record Examination

Test of English as a Foreign Language

Purpose

GRE assesses candidate’s following skills for admission to graduate courses abroad:

  • Analytical writing

  • Quantitative reasoning

  • Verbal reasoning

TOEFL measures a candidate’s English proficiency in:

  • Reading

  • Writing

  • Listening

  • Speaking

Test Duration

3 hours 45 minutes

116 minutes

Test Format

Computer-based (adaptive) or paper-based

Only TOEFL iBT (internet-based tests) are available for Indian test takers.

Difficulty Level

Slightly higher as it includes math, reasoning, and writing problem

Moderate as the test includes general English language skills.

Fee

USD 220

USD 205

Who needs it?

Students seeking graduate and business courses abroad, especially in US and Canada, are required to appear for GRE.

Students applying for study, work, or migration abroad such as US, UK, Canada, and Australia are required to appear for TOEFL

Score Validity

5 years

2 years

Differences Between GRE and TOEFL Exams

It is crucial to understand that both GRE and TOEFL are different exams with different purposes. GRE is solely for checking the academic readiness for graduate courses, whereas TOEFL is for checking the candidate’s English proficiency.

GRE-versus-TOEFL

Hence, the GRE vs TOEFL differences are mentioned below. Explore the below headings in depth to get answers to the main question: GRE Vs TOEFL which is better?

  • Purpose

  • Eligibility

  • Pattern

  • Format

  • Reattempt Availability

  • Difficulty Level

  • Fees

  • Scoring Method

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Let’s discuss in detail some of the crucial differences for clearer understanding.

GRE and TOEFL Full Form and Purpose

GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination. Both GRE and TOEFL full form cannot be compared with each other as these are very different from each other. The main purpose of the GRE is to evaluate your readiness for graduate level courses abroad, especially in US.

TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. The main purpose of TOEFL is to assess the English proficiency level. Applicants appear for IELTS whose native language is not English and are seeking studies, work or migration in an English speaking country.

GRE Vs TOEFL Exam Eligibility

The exam eligibility varies depending on the preferred test among GRE and TOEFL. When we compare both exams: GRE TOEFL exam eligibility, we can consider the following.

There is no such GRE eligibility requirement 2025. Candidates who are seeking higher education abroad in postgraduate courses can appear for the exam. Irrespective of age, candidates can appear for GRE to check their readiness for graduate courses abroad.

GRE and TOEFL Exam Fee: Which One is More Expensive?

In comparison to the GRE vs TOEFL cost, for appearing for the exam, GRE exam fee is typically higher than the TOEFL exam fee. Check the TOEFL and GRE exam fee for Indian students in the table below

GRE and TOEFL Exam Fee in India

Exam Type

Fees (USD)

GRE Exam Fee (General)

220

TOEFL Exam Fee

205

GRE Vs TOEFL Difficulty Level

On comparing the difficulty levels of two exams, GRE and TOEFL, we can consider GRE way more challenging than TOEFL exam. The GRE exam includes a wide range of advanced subject-specific topics such as reasoning, maths, critical thinking, verbal reasoning, etc. These topics might be difficult.

On the contrary, the TOEFL exam is the English proficiency exam that evaluates the English proficiency in reading, listening, writing and speaking. These topics are relatively less complex.

GRE and TOEFL Score Validity

Both GRE scores and TOEFL scores are acceptable in universities abroad for admission purposes. GRE is valid for 5 years whereas TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years. This means that candidates can use the scores for visas and study applications until the expiry of GRE or TOEFL scores. Check below the GRE and TOEFL score validity details:

GRE vs TOEFL Exam Score Validity:

Exam Type

Validity Period

GRE Validity

5 years

TOEFL Validity

2 years

Which is Better: GRE vs TOEFL?

The answer typically depends on the candidate’s academic goals and purpose. If you are looking to appear for graduate courses abroad, especially in the fields of engineering, business, or sciences, then GRE is the right exam for you between GRE vs TOEFL.

On the other hand, if you are looking to prove your English proficiency for study, work or migration applications, TOEFL is the right exam for you.

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IMS FREE Online GRE Mock Test
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it easy to get 79 in TOEFL?

A 79 score in TOEFL is considered to be below average. Right preparation can easily help candidates to attain at least 79 marks in the exam.

2. Is GRE tough for Indian students?

Yes, GRE can be slightly tough for Indian students. GRE exams are primarily for Indian students looking for graduate studies abroad especially courses in engineering and business. It requires thorough knowledge of advanced subject-specific topics such as reasoning, maths, critical thinking, verbal reasoning to crack the exam.

3. Is a 140 GRE score good?

No, a score of 140 is typically not a good score. A GRE score of 140 in either the Verbal or Quantitative section is below average for test takers. A competitive score is recommended.

4. Is 95 a bad TOEFL score?

A TOEFL score of 95 is not a bad score, as it indicates a good proficiency of the English language. However, applicants must check the specific requirements of the university or program you're applying to determine whether it is bad or good.

5. Is 93 a bad TOEFL score?

No, a score of 93 in TOEFL exam is not a bad score for international students.Many abroad universities accept TOEFL score between 80 to 100. However, many top universities abroad often required a ascore above 100.

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Questions related to GRE

Have a question related to GRE ?

Hello,

It depends on the university you are applying to. Most German universities do not require GATE for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the GRE , especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.

You should check the specific admission requirements of the universities you are interested in. Generally, having IELTS (or TOEFL) and a German language proficiency certificate (if the course is in German) is enough.

Hope it helps !

GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, and GMAT are standardized tests often required for admission to universities abroad, but they serve different purposes. The **GRE** (Graduate Record Examination) is used for admission to graduate programs and some business schools, focusing on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The **TOEFL** (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and **IELTS** (International English Language Testing System) assess English language proficiency, often required for non-native speakers applying to English-speaking countries; TOEFL is more common in the U.S., while IELTS is popular in the U.K. and other regions. The **GMAT** (Graduate Management Admission Test) is specifically for business school admissions, testing quantitative, verbal, analytical writing, and integrated reasoning skills, and is required for MBA programs. I would advise that you get in touch with a prominent abroad education advisor - a great one will really help you through the entire process, end-to-end.


Hello aspirant,

Those who wish to pursue postsecondary education, specifically a Master's degree, specialised Master's programme, MBA, or PhD, are eligible to take the GRE. You must show up for the GRE general exam. Use the following link to get the comprehensive exam details:

https://studyabroad.careers360.com/exams/gre

Thank you

Hope this information helps you.

Choosing the best GRE coaching center in Hyderabad depends on various factors such as the quality of faculty, study materials, class size, and the success rate of the institute. Look for centers that offer comprehensive courses, personalized attention, flexible timings, and extensive practice tests. Additionally, consider the center's reputation, feedback from former students, and any additional resources like online support or library access. Visiting a few centers to get a feel for their teaching style and environment can also help in making an informed decision.

Yes, pursuing an M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) through the GRE is possible. Many universities, especially in the US, accept GRE scores for admission into their master's programs in CSE. Strong GRE scores, along with a solid academic record, relevant work experience, and a compelling statement of purpose, can enhance your chances of admission. For personalized guidance and to navigate the application process effectively, consider reaching out to Invicta Career Consultancy, which can provide expert advice and support tailored to your goals, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

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