The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that assesses the verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills of prospective graduate and business school applicants. Administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the GRE is widely accepted by thousands of graduate programs worldwide.
Who needs the GRE?
The GRE is typically required by individuals seeking admission to graduate programs. It is commonly needed by applicants who wish to pursue master’s, doctoral (PhD), and specialized graduate programs across various fields, including arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, law and business programs worldwide.
GRE Test Types
GRE General Test- The GRE General Test measures general academic abilities across verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, and is widely required for graduate programs in various fields. This test evaluated the overall academic skills.
GRE Subject Test- The GRE Subject Tests focus on specific subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology, assessing in-depth knowledge in those areas. These tests are typically required or recommended for specialized graduate programs and demonstrate proficiency in a particular subject
GRE General Test
| Sections | Test structure/ content |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Analysis- MCQ, numeric entry, problem solving, strategies |
| Analytical Writing | “Analyze an Issue”- Articulate & support complex ideas, construct arguments, sustain a focused & coherent discussion |
The Verbal and Quantitative sections of the GRE are adaptive. Your performance on the first section determines the difficulty of the second section. Scoring considers both the number of correct answers and the difficulty of the sections.
GRE Subject Test
| Subjects | Test structure/ content |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 66 MCQs on: Calculus- 50%Algebra- 25%Others- 25% |
| Physics | 66 MCQs on Calculus- 50%Algebra- 25%Others- 25% |
| Psychology | 144 MCQs based on: Biological- 30 ques, Cognitive- 29 ques, Social- 19 ques, Developmental- 18, clinical- 23 ques, Measurement/ Methodology/ Other- 25 ques |
GRE General Test Syllabus 2024
| Sections | Questions/ Tasks | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | One task | 13 mins |
| Verbal Reasoning | 1: 12 questions2: 15 questions | 18 mins + 23 mins |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 1: 12 questions2: 15 questions | 21 mins + 26 mins |
GRE Subject Test Syllabus 2024
| Subjects | Timings for different subjects |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2 hrs 50 mins |
| Physics | 2 hrs |
| Psychology | 2 hrs |
How the GRE scores are Calculated?
GRE General Test
| Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning | Analytical Writing Measure |
|---|---|
| Range of Score 130- 170 with 1-point increment | Range of Score 130- 170 with 1- 1-point increment |
Your scores for Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are based on the number of correct answers in the test’s operational sections. These sections are adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the second section is adjusted based on your performance in the first. Every question in each section equally affects your final score
GRE Subject Test
GRE Subject Tests provide a total score ranging from 200 to 990, in 10-point increments, though each test uses only part of this range. For Physics and Psychology, subscores are given on a 0-100 scale, in 1-point increments. Official scores will be available in your ETS account on the scheduled reporting date, and ETS will notify you by email when they’re ready.
GRE Exam Registration
To Register for the GRE exam, candidates are required to:
- Create an ETS account by visiting the official website or clicking here. https://ereg.ets.org/ereg/public/jump?_p=GRI
- Select the type of GRE exam you wish to take- The GRE General Test or the GRE Subject Test
- Now make a selection of the test center or a test-at-home facility.
- Confirm your time zone to select a test appointment
- Select your preferred date and time for the test
- Click on ‘Register’ and make the payment.
GRE Exam Fees and Related Services
| Services | Fees |
|---|---|
| GRE General Test Fee | $220 |
| GRE Subject Test Fee | $150 |
| Rescheduling Fee | $50 |
| Changing your Test Center | $50 |
GRE General Test Retake
You can retake the GRE General Test once every 21 days, but no more than five times in a continuous 12-month period (365 days). This rule holds true even if you decide to cancel your previous scores.
GRE Exam Preparation Tips
- Set a Realistic Study Timeline: Allocate 3-6 months with daily or weekly goals to cover all sections.
- Take a Diagnostic Test Early: Identify your strengths and weaknesses to tailor your study plan.
- Use Official GRE Materials: Rely on ETS resources and trusted prep books for accurate practice.
- Incorporate Timed Practice: Simulate test conditions to improve time management during the exam.
- Prioritize Weak Areas: Focus more on sections where you score lower in practice tests.
- Practice Analytical Writing Regularly: Write essays on various topics to enhance your writing skills.
- Learn GRE Vocabulary Daily: Use word lists and apps to expand your vocabulary consistently.
- Review Mistakes Thoroughly: Analyze errors in practice tests to avoid repeating them.
- Take Full-Length Practice Tests: Schedule regular mock exams to build endurance and confidence.
- Stay Updated on GRE Changes: Keep an eye on any updates or changes in the GRE format for 2024.
Resources for GRE Exam Preparations
- PowerPrep Online: ETS offers two free full-length practice tests that simulate the actual GRE experience.
- GRE Math Review and Math Conventions: Free downloadable PDFs to help you refresh your math skills.
- Magoosh provides free resources including practice questions, vocabulary flashcards, and study schedules.
- They also have a helpful blog and YouTube channel with tips and strategies for every section of the GRE.
Manhattan Prep GRE Free Resources
- Manhattan Prep offers free GRE practice questions, study guides, and a free “GRE Challenge of the Week” series.
- Kaplan offers a free full-length practice test with detailed performance analysis to help you assess your strengths and weaknesses.
- A free GRE vocabulary learning tool that lets you practice words using spaced repetition.
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