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The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a widely accepted standardized test used to evaluate candidates' readiness to apply to graduate programs. As one of the most critical aspects of the graduate school application process, the GRE assesses critical skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These are considered essential for success in a graduate-level academic environment.
The GRE is a standardized test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), designed to assess skills that are critical for success in graduate and business school programs. It evaluates a range of competencies, including critical thinking, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
What makes the GRE particularly valuable is its wide acceptance across different fields of study and institutions worldwide. Unlike other exams, such as the GMAT, specifically for business schools, the GRE is more versatile and accepted for various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, engineering, and humanities.
Graduate programs across various fields use GRE scores to assess an applicant’s readiness for academic study. GRE scores are often part of core admissions requirements for programs in fields like education, psychology, public policy, and the sciences. Schools use the scores to gauge students' ability to handle rigorous academic work.
In recent years, more and more business schools, including top MBA programs, have started accepting GRE scores as an alternative to the GMAT. This trend allows applicants the flexibility to apply to both business schools and other graduate programs without needing to take two separate standardized tests. Schools such as Harvard Business School and Stanford’s Graduate School of Business accept the GRE.
In the U.S., some law schools have begun accepting GRE scores instead of the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). This shift provides flexibility for students considering both law and other graduate degrees. Schools such as Harvard Law School and Georgetown University Law Center are among those that accept the GRE for JD admissions.
Many academic institutions and organizations use GRE scores to determine eligibility for various merit-based scholarships and fellowships. A high GRE score can strengthen your application when applying for funding to support your graduate education.
Some programs use GRE scores to determine the eligibility of applicants for teaching or research assistantships. High scores, particularly in the quantitative and analytical sections, can enhance your chances of being selected for competitive positions that provide financial support and valuable experience.
The GRE General Test has three separate components: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The first two sections are scored on a 130–170 scale in one-point increments, while the Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0–6 in half-point increments.
This section assesses a candidate’s ability to understand and analyze written content, evaluate relationships among parts of sentences, and recognize relationships among words and concepts. It is scored between 130 and 170.
This section evaluates basic mathematical skills, understanding of elementary mathematical concepts, and the ability to reason quantitatively and solve problems using mathematical models. Its score range is 130 to 170.
This section measures the ability to articulate and effectively support complex ideas. Candidates must write two essays, one analyzing an issue and another critiquing an argument. Each essay is graded on a scale of 0 to 6.
The GRE is computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty level of the questions adjusts based on your performance. For example, if you perform well in one section, the following may present more complex questions. This adaptive nature affects your final score.
Test-takers receive their unofficial Verbal and Quantitative scores immediately after completing the GRE. Official scores, including the Analytical Writing score, are available online within 10–15 days. Test-takers can send scores to up to four institutions for free as part of the registration process, with additional score reports available for a fee.
Many of Harvard’s graduate programs, including education, public health, and the humanities, accept the GRE. The GRE is also accepted for joint-degree programs such as JD/PhD.
Stanford’s programs across various disciplines, including science, engineering, and social sciences, require GRE scores in the admissions process. The GRE is essential in evaluating applicants’ readiness for Stanford’s rigorous programs.
MIT accepts GRE scores for various engineering, economics, and business graduate programs. The GRE is particularly significant for applicants to its PhD programs in technical fields.
The GRE is often required for students applying to Oxford’s law, public policy, and social sciences graduate programs. Oxford’s acceptance of the GRE helps streamline the application process for international students.
LSE uses GRE scores for admission into economics, finance, and management graduate programs. Applicants with strong GRE scores have a competitive advantage when applying to LSE’s highly selective programs.
The GRE General Test comprises six sections: one Analytical Writing section, two Verbal Reasoning sections, two Quantitative Reasoning sections, and one unscored or research section. The total testing time is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
The test's first section includes two essay prompts. One asks you to analyze an issue, while the other requires you to critique an argument. Each essay is allotted 30 minutes.
This section tests your reading comprehension, vocabulary, and ability to analyze text. It has two parts, each consisting of 20 questions to be completed in 30 minutes.
This section focuses on math skills and tests your ability to solve problems using arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Like the Verbal section, it has two parts, each with 20 questions, and each lasts 35 minutes.
ETS includes an unscored or research section that does not contribute to your final score. The purpose of this section is for test development, and you will need to know which section is unscored.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the types of prompts that appear in the Analytical Writing section. Practice writing essays on sample prompts, focusing on constructing logical arguments and providing clear examples to support your points. Develop strategies to outline your essay quickly and practice timed essays. Review each essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and structure.
Build a strong vocabulary by learning new words daily. Utilize flashcards or apps like Quizlet to memorize GRE vocabulary. Practice reading comprehension by analyzing academic articles and identifying the author’s main argument and supporting details. Complete timed practice sections to improve speed and accuracy.
Refresh your knowledge of fundamental math concepts such as algebra, geometry, and basic arithmetic. Focus on problem-solving strategies and understanding how to set up equations. Take timed practice tests to improve your speed and accuracy in solving quantitative problems. Focus on identifying the questions that give you the most trouble and target those areas for further practice.
Establish a consistent study schedule to cover all sections of the GRE. Break your preparation into manageable chunks, and allocate specific time slots for each section. Aim to study at least 1–2 hours daily in the weeks leading up to the test.
Full-length practice tests are crucial for understanding the test format and improving time management. ETS offers free practice tests that simulate the real exam environment. Taking these tests will help you gauge your performance and pinpoint areas for improvement.
Identify the sections where you need the most improvement and dedicate additional time to mastering those areas. For example, if you struggle with quantitative reasoning, consider using resources like Khan Academy or GRE-specific prep books to enhance your skills.
Review various study materials, including GRE prep books, online courses, mobile apps, and study groups. Having multiple resources will help you cover a wide range of question types and difficulty levels.
Ensure you have a calm mindset on the exam day. Remember to eat a light meal before the test, bring your ID and admission ticket, and arrive at the test center early. Staying calm and focused during the test can significantly improve your performance.
The GRE is an essential part of the application process for many graduate and business programs. By understanding the exam’s format, scoring, and applications and following a well-structured study plan, you can maximize your chances of achieving a high score. Preparing effectively for the GRE is not just about studying hard; it’s about studying smart.
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