GRE + TOEFL Combo Strategy 2026: Prepare for Both at EEC

If you're applying for an MS or MBA in the USA, you almost certainly need both — the GRE (for academic aptitude) and the TOEFL (for English proficiency). Most US universities require both scores, and preparing for them together is not just possible — it's strategically smart. The GRE + TOEFL combo preparation strategy at EEC costs just ₹15,000 total (₹7,500 × 2), and the skill overlap between the two tests means studying for one directly improves your performance on the other. With $28+ years of experience and 50,000+ students placed, EEC has perfected the dual-test preparation approach. Here's your complete guide to conquering both the GRE and TOEFL in 2026.

Why You Need Both GRE & TOEFL for US Admissions

Let's clear up a common misconception: the GRE and TOEFL are not interchangeable. They test completely different things. The GRE measures your academic reasoning — quantitative ability, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing. The TOEFL measures your English language proficiency — reading, listening, writing, and speaking. A perfect GRE Verbal score does not exempt you from TOEFL, and a perfect TOEFL score says nothing about your math ability.

Virtually every MS program at top US universities requires both scores. Some MBA programs accept GMAT instead of GRE, and some accept IELTS instead of TOEFL — but the GRE + TOEFL combination is the most universally accepted pair. For study in the USA, this is the gold standard.

Skill Overlap Between GRE and TOEFL

Here's the strategic advantage of preparing for both tests simultaneously: there is significant skill overlapbetween the GRE and TOEFL. The GRE Verbal section (Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence) builds the exact advanced vocabulary and reading skills that make the TOEFL Reading and Listening sections easier. The GRE's Analytical Writing section trains structured essay writing — which directly transfers to TOEFL's Academic Discussion writing task.

Where GRE Prep Helps TOEFL

GRE Verbal exposes you to complex academic passages, advanced vocabulary, and logical reasoning — all of which appear in TOEFL Reading. GRE vocab study (words like "ubiquitous," "perfunctory," "equivocal") elevates your overall English, making TOEFL feel easier. The GRE AWA essay trains the argumentation skills needed for TOEFL's Academic Discussion task.

Where TOEFL Prep Helps GRE

TOEFL's focus on listening comprehension and spoken English builds overall English fluency that helps with GRE Verbal comprehension. TOEFL's reading passages build speed-reading skills valuable for GRE Reading Comprehension. The daily English immersion from TOEFL prep creates the language foundation that makes GRE Verbal less intimidating.

Which Test Should You Take First?

EEC recommends taking the GRE first, then the TOEFL 4–6 weeks later. Here's why: the GRE is the harder test. It requires deeper preparation (especially for Quant), and the Verbal section is significantly more challenging than TOEFL Reading. By tackling the GRE first, you build an advanced skill set that makes TOEFL preparation faster and easier.

Additionally, GRE scores are valid for 5 years, while TOEFL scores are valid for only 2 years. Taking the GRE first gives you more flexibility — even if you delay your applications, your GRE score remains valid much longer. However, if your TOEFL score is about to expire and you have an upcoming deadline, prioritise TOEFL.

Recommended Timeline

Month 1–2: Intensive GRE preparation at EEC (focus on Quant and Verbal). Month 3: Take the GRE. Month 3–4: Shift focus to TOEFL-specific preparation at EEC (Speaking and Listening). Month 4: Take the TOEFL. This 4-month plan covers both tests efficiently while allowing time for retakes if needed.

Combined GRE + TOEFL Study Plan (4 Months)

EEC's proven 4-month combo plan is designed for working professionals and final-year students who need both scores quickly. The plan leverages skill overlap to maximise efficiency — you never study the same concept twice in isolation.

Notice how Month 1–2 focuses primarily on GRE while passively building TOEFL skills. By Month 4, when you shift fully to TOEFL, you've already built 70% of the required skills through GRE preparation. This is why EEC's combo students score higher on TOEFL than students who only prepare for TOEFL.

Score Targets for GRE + TOEFL by University Tier

What GRE and TOEFL scores do you actually need? It depends on the tier of university you're targeting. Here's a realistic breakdown based on EEC's $28+ years of placement data:

For detailed university-specific GRE requirements, see our dedicated guide. Remember that these are targets, not minimums — a strong SOP, research experience, and GPA can compensate for scores slightly below these benchmarks.

GRE vs TOEFL vs IELTS: Choosing the Right Combination

While GRE + TOEFL is the most common combination, some students consider GRE + IELTS or GRE + Duolingo instead. Here's when each combination makes sense:

GRE + TOEFL (Recommended for USA)

The gold standard for US admissions. Nearly every US university accepts this combination. Best for students applying exclusively or primarily to the USA. The skill overlap between GRE Verbal and TOEFL Reading makes this combination the most efficient to prepare for together.

GRE + IELTS (Best for UK/Australia/Multi-Country)

If you're applying to the UK, Australia, or multiple countries simultaneously, IELTS may have broader acceptance than TOEFL. Many UK universities require IELTS specifically. However, for USA-focused applications, TOEFL remains the safer choice.

GRE + Duolingo (Budget Option)

The Duolingo English Test costs just $65 (~₹5,400) versus TOEFL's ₹18,000. If budget is a major concern and your target universities accept DET, this combination saves ₹11,000+. Check university acceptance before choosing DET.

EEC Combo Coaching: GRE + TOEFL for ₹15,000 Total

At EEC, both GRE coaching and TOEFL coaching cost ₹7,500 each — making your total combo investment just ₹15,000. Both courses include Online Live classes and Pre-recorded video courses. EEC is the only major coaching institute that offers both GRE and TOEFL at this price point with expert trainers who understand the overlap between the two tests.

What makes EEC's combo coaching unique: (1) Integrated vocabulary building — one vocab list designed to boost both GRE Verbal and TOEFL Reading scores; (2) Coordinated scheduling — your GRE and TOEFL classes are timed to follow the 4-month plan above; (3) Single counsellor — one EEC counsellor handles both your test prep and study abroad applications, so nothing falls through the cracks.

“I prepared for both GRE and TOEFL at EEC in 4 months. Scored 325 on the GRE and 5.5 bands on the new TOEFL. The GRE Verbal prep made TOEFL feel easy. Total coaching cost: ₹15,000. I got into Georgia Tech for MS in CS. Best ₹15,000 I ever spent.”

— Meera S., MS in CS, Georgia Tech — GRE 325, TOEFL 5.5

Savings Calculation: EEC vs Other Coaching Institutes

Let's do the math. Here's what you'd pay at EEC versus a typical premium coaching institute for the full GRE + TOEFL + study abroad package:

The savings are staggering: ₹52,000–₹1,25,000 saved by choosing EEC. And the quality is proven — 50,000+ students placed at universities worldwide over $28+ years. The ₹15,000 you invest in EEC's GRE + TOEFL combo coaching includes everything you need from test prep to university admission to visa stamping. Start your dual-test journey today.

Related reads: GRE Complete Guide 2026 | TOEFL Coaching at EEC | IELTS Coaching at EEC | Study in USA with EEC.

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