GRE vs TOEFL

Like GRE vs IELTS, the GRE vs TOEFL comparison is really about understanding two different requirements: GRE for graduate admissions (verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing), TOEFL for English proficiency certification. Many US-bound Indian students need both—but exceptions are more common in 2026 than a few years ago.

By the RN Academy team · Last updated July 2026

When you need both

Both exams are administered by ETS, so you can manage GRE and TOEFL registrations from a single ETS account. That convenience does not mean the tests overlap—they answer completely different admissions questions.

Do I need TOEFL and GRE?

The honest answer to do I need TOEFL and GRE depends on destination, field, and specific program—not just country. Use the framework below, then verify each department's admissions page.

GRE vs TOEFL — side-by-side

GRE section scores are reported independently—some programs weight Quant heavily (STEM), others care about Verbal (humanities). Analytical Writing is scored separately on a 0–6 scale and does not count toward the 260–340 total.

English test options — TOEFL vs IELTS

Since GRE vs TOEFL often leads to "TOEFL or IELTS?"—here is the quick answer:

Most US universities accept both. Pick based on speaking comfort: some test-takers prefer TOEFL's recorded responses (no live examiner), while others enjoy IELTS's conversational speaking format.

Full comparison: GRE vs IELTS

Which English test should Indian students take?

When you might skip GRE

Since 2023, many US MS programs—especially in Computer Science, Engineering, and Analytics—have moved to GRE-optional or test-blind policies. That does not mean you can skip English proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS remains mandatory at virtually every English-medium program unless you qualify for a waiver.

Even when GRE is optional, a strong score can still boost competitive scholarship applications. See Is GRE Worth It? and Universities Without GRE Requirement for program-specific guidance.

When TOEFL is waived

Many US universities waive the TOEFL/IELTS requirement if you completed a bachelor's degree from an institution where English is the sole medium of instruction. If your college provides a certificate of English-medium instruction, you may not need to take TOEFL—this is the most common waiver path for Indian applicants from IITs, IISc, and other English-medium universities.

However, some programs still require an English test for visa documentation or scholarship eligibility. A few schools (e.g., UIUC, UW-Madison) waive TOEFL if GRE Verbal exceeds 160 and you can prove English-medium instruction—but this is program-specific, not universal policy. Always check individual program pages.

Suggested timeline for GRE + TOEFL prep

1. Months 1–3: GRE focus—Quant + Verbal builds reading skills for TOEFL Reading too
2. Month 4: Take GRE (valid 5 years—take it first)
3. Months 5–6: TOEFL/IELTS focused prep—especially Speaking and Listening
4. Month 6: Take English test; submit scores with applications (valid 2 years only)

Do not neglect Speaking—Indian test-takers often score well on GRE Verbal but struggle on TOEFL Speaking. According to ETS performance data, the average TOEFL score for Indian test-takers is around 88, with Speaking averaging 22—below the 23+ sub-score many US programs require for TA roles.

Use RN Academy's adaptive vocabulary and RC quizzes to build GRE Verbal and TOEFL Reading speed simultaneously. Dense academic passages train the same inference skills both exams reward.

For a full application timeline, see Study Abroad Timeline for Indian Students.

FAQ

Does ETS offer a combined GRE + TOEFL discount?

Occasionally ETS runs promotions—check ets.org. No permanent bundle exists, but a single ETS account manages both registrations.

What TOEFL score do US universities require?

Typically 90–100 total for MS programs. Top-20 may want 105+. Speaking sub-score of 23+ is often required for TA roles. Competitive STEM programs often want 100+ with no section below 22.

Can high GRE Verbal substitute for TOEFL?

Rarely as a standalone rule. A few programs waive English tests if GRE Verbal exceeds 160 and you studied in English medium—but the more common waiver is an English-medium bachelor's degree certificate. Most schools still require TOEFL/IELTS for visa documentation even with a high GRE Verbal score.

Do I need GRE for UK Master's programs?

Generally no for taught master's in humanities and most STEM fields. Competitive economics, finance, and business programs at LSE, Oxford, and Cambridge may require GRE or GMAT—check each department. Focus on IELTS UKVI for UK applications.

Can I use TOEFL for Canada?

Yes—most Canadian universities accept TOEFL iBT for admission. Many also offer English proficiency waivers for graduates of English-medium institutions. IELTS is equally accepted and required for some visa streams.