The Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
About the GRE
Graduate Record Examination or GRE is an important requisite to seek admission to law, business, and graduate schools worldwide. It is a computer-based standardized exam, designed and developed by the ETS. Most schools consider these scores along with your supporting documents and academic records to assess your capability to pursue a graduate program.
Why you Must Take the GRE
- GRE is accepted by 94 countries and over 1000+ top business and graduate schools worldwide. The GRE scores allow students to apply to various graduate programs.
- The GRE is frequently required or advised as part of the admissions process for graduate programs. Check the admissions requirements for the graduate program you want to apply to and determine if the GRE is necessary.
- You can distinguish yourself from other applicants using the GRE. A high GRE score might show admissions committees that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in graduate school.
- You may be able to apply for assistantships or scholarships with the GRE. Some assistantships and scholarship programs may demand or favour candidates who have taken the GRE and received a specific score.
- GRE Subject Tests are designed to assess proficiency in specific subjects and assume an extensive background in those disciplines. Tests are available for Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
- The GRE General test measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills.
- By taking the GRE test, you equip yourself with the necessary skills to succeed in today’s demanding graduate programs, such as business and law.
Quick GRE Facts
GRE scores have been widely utilized for over 70 years by admissions and fellowship committees in thousands of graduate programs worldwide. These scores are used to supplement an applicant’s undergraduate grades and other qualifications for graduate study. Here are a few quick facts regarding the GRE:
- The GRE consists of three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
- The exam duration is 1 hour and 58 minutes.
- Globally, there are more than 1000 authorized test centers spread across 160+ countries.
- In India, there are 42 test centers located in 29 cities.
- The GRE General exam is available on both weekdays and weekends year-round.
- The GRE Subject Wise exam is conducted three times a year.
- Test-takers are allowed up to five retakes, with a minimum gap of 21 days, within a 12-month period.
| Sections | Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning |
| Exam Duration | 1 Hour 58 Minutes |
| Total Test Centers in the World | There are more than 1000 authorized test centers across 160+ countries |
| Total GRE Test Centers in India | There are 42 test centers in 29 cities. |
| Frequency of Exams (GRE General) | Weekdays and weekends year around |
| Frequency of Exams (GRE Subject Wise) | Thrice in a year |
| Retakes Allowed | Five retakes are allowed with a gap of 21 days in a 12-month period |
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GRE Sections and Test Structure
ETS announced modifications to the format of the GRE General Test, which took effect on September 22, 2023. The aim of these updates was to improve student concentration during preparation, reduce fatigue resulting from the extensive syllabus, and ensure timely submission of GRE scores for admission applications.
The GRE comprises six sections and lasts for 1 hour 58 minutes. A candidate has to attempt five sections.
| Section | Number of Sections | Number of Questions | Time | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Analytical Writing |
One Section – One Timed Task |
One Analyze an Issue Task |
30 minutes per task |
0 to 6 points; 0.5-point increment |
|
Verbal Reasoning |
Two Sections |
One Section with 12 Questions; One Section with 15 Questions |
41 Minutes Total |
130 to 170 points; 1-point increment |
|
Quantitative Reasoning |
Two Sections |
One Section with 12 Questions; One Section with 15 Questions |
47 Minutes Total |
130 to 170 points; 1 point increment |
Total Exam Duration = 1 hour 58 minutes
Analytical Writing
There is one task in this section – Analyze an Issue
Analyze an Issue
It tests the analytical thinking capability of a candidate around a general topic. Each issue is followed by a claim that can be interpreted from different perspectives to different conditions and situations.
Score Range: 0-6 scale, half-point increment.
Verbal Reasoning
Reading Comprehension features passages, which are usually one paragraph long, and one or two passages may feature multiple paragraphs. These passages are usually taken from academic and nonacademic books and periodicals in arts and humanities, business, social sciences, and physical and biological sciences. These passages are often accompanied with one to six questions with a single answer, multiple correct answers, and a sentence from a passage.
Text Completion features passages with 1-5 sentences and 1-3 blanks. The sentences with two or three blanks would have up to three answer choices. The sentences that have one blank would have up to five answer choices. Students are required to answer all blanks correctly. There are no partially correct answers.
Sentence Equivalence features a sentence with a blank and six answer choices. Students need to focus on the partial information and complete the passage as required using any two answer choices. They will be awarded a point only for the correct answers. There are no partially correct answers.
Score Range: 130-170 scale, 1-point increment.
Quantitative Reasoning
This section analyzes a student’s mathematical skills and their ability to solve the problems quantitatively. Their skills are assessed in the four content areas – arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The students are given calculators for both paper and computer-based testing formats.
One 21-minute section with 12 questions and one 26-minute section with 15, which are presented through quantitative comparisons, multiple-choice questions, and numeric entry questions. Again, the multiple-choice questions are of two types where the student may be asked to select multiple answers and select one answer for the given question.
Score Range: 130-170 scale, 1-point increment.
GRE Syllabus for General Test
GRE Syllabus for Analytical Writing
In Analytical Writing, this task presents an opinion on an issue and instructions on how to respond. You are required to evaluate the issue, consider its complexities and develop an argument with reasons and examples to support your views.
GRE Syllabus for Verbal Reasoning
The following are some of the topics covered under the Verbal Reasoning section:
- Basic Sentence Structure: Adjectives, Nouns, and Pronouns
- Idioms And Idiomatic Expressions
- Verb Tense
- Pronoun Agreement
- Subject Verb Agreement
- Modifiers & Parallelism
- Vocabulary
- Nouns, Pronouns, and Adjectives
GRE Syllabus for Quantitative Reasoning:
The following are some of the topics covered under the Quantitative Reasoning section:
- Algebra: The algebra topics include Operations with exponents; relations, factoring and simplifying algebraic expressions; functions, equations and inequalities; solving linear and quadratic equations and inequalities; setting up equations to solve word problems; solving simultaneous equations and inequalities; and coordinate geometry, including graphs of functions, intercepts and slopes of lines, equations and inequalities
- Arithmetic: The arithmetic topics include properties and types of integers, such as divisibility, factorization, prime numbers, remainders and odd and even integers; arithmetic operations, exponents and roots; and concepts such as estimation, percent, decimal representation and sequences of numbers, ratio, absolute value, rate, and the number line
- Data Analysis: The data analysis topics include basic descriptive statistics, such as mean, median, mode, standard deviation, range, interquartile range, quartiles and percentiles; interpretation of data in tables and graphs, such as line graphs, bar graphs, circle graphs, boxplots, scatterplots and frequency distributions; elementary probability, such as probabilities of compound events and independent events; conditional probability; random variables and probability distributions, including normal distributions; and counting methods, such as combinations, permutations and Venn diagrams.
- Geometry: The geometry topics, include parallel and perpendicular lines, circles, triangles — including isosceles, equilateral and 30°-60°-90° triangles — quadrilaterals, other polygons, congruent and similar figures, three-dimensional figures, area, perimeter
GRE Subject Wise Tests
These tests are designed for students who may possess extensive knowledge of the following subjects.
Chemistry Test has been discontinued from April 2023. Scores will continue to be reported for 5 years after test administration.
The test scores of GRE subject-wise tests are considered by fellowship or admission panels while processing graduate-level study applications.
Starting from September 2023, Students can attempt these tests in computer-based format. The duration for Mathematics test stays 2 hours and 50 minutes. Physics and Psychology tests are shortened to 2 hours.
- Physics: It comprises 70 multiple -choice questions, which may be represented through experimental data, graphs, diagrams, and physical situations. These questions may be based on subjects like Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Optics and Wave Phenomena, Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, Atomic Physics, Special Relativity, Laboratory Methods, and Specialized Topics.
- Mathematics: This test comprises 66 multiple-choice questions covering calculus, algebra, and other topics.
- Psychology: The test features 144 multiple-choice questions with five answer options. The questions span six content areas, including biological, cognitive, social, developmental, clinical, and measurement/methodology.
GRE Scores
The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Each section is scored on a scale of 130-170, with the total score ranging from 260-340. For the Analytical Writing section, scores range from 0-6, in half-point increments. Higher scores are generally more competitive for graduate school admissions, but what’s considered a “good” score can vary depending on the programs and schools you’re applying to.
Fees For GRE Tests And Related Services
The students planning to appear for GRE must be aware of GRE fees. The fees are stated in US dollars and decided by ETS.
| Location | Fee |
| China | $231.30 |
| India | $220 |
| All other areas of the world | $220 |
Special Handling Requests:
The students have to pay additional fees for rescheduling their exam dates or changing their test center. The table below will give you an idea of these fees.
| Location | Fee |
| Rescheduling Fee – India and Other Parts of the World | $50 |
| Rescheduling Fee – China | $53.90 |
| Change of exam center | $50 |
| Change in subject test | $50 |
Scoring Services:
You may have to pay a small fee for availing different scoring services. The below table will give you an idea of fees for different scoring services.
| Services | Fee |
| Additional Score Reports (ASR) — Per recipient | $35 |
| Score Reinstatement Fee | $50 |
| Score Review for Analytical Writing measure | $60 |
GRE Fee Waiver
GRE issues a fee reduction voucher to individuals in financial need or those who are unemployed. This voucher can be used for one GRE subject test and General test. Individuals who have received this voucher after November 1, 2022 can register for GRE General Test at $100 and save up to 50% on GRE Subject Tests. These candidates will get free access to the following preparation materials worth $100.
- ScoreItNow!™ Online Writing Practice ($20 value)
- POWERPREP PLUS® Online Practice Test 1 & Online Practice Test 2 ($40 -each)
Note: A candidate can apply for fee reduction voucher for retest. They will receive these vouchers in their email within 15 days of approval of the request by the ETS.
How to Prepare for GRE
Preparing for the GRE typically involves a mix of studying the content, familiarizing yourself with the test format, and practicing with sample questions. Here are some steps you can take to prepare:
Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the format of the GRE, including the types of questions in each section and the timing of the test.
Assess Your Skills: Take a practice test to assess your strengths and weaknesses. This can help you tailor your study plan.
Study the Content: Review the content covered in the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections. This may include vocabulary, math concepts, and reading comprehension skills.
Practice Regularly: Use official GRE practice materials and other resources to practice regularly. This can help you get comfortable with the test format and improve your speed and accuracy.
Build Test-Taking Strategies: Develop strategies for approaching different question types, managing your time effectively, and dealing with challenging questions.
Consider a Prep Course: Some test-takers benefit from taking a GRE prep course, either in person or online, to get additional guidance and practice.
Stay Organized: Keep track of your progress and make adjustments to your study plan as needed. Stay motivated by setting realistic goals and rewarding yourself for achievements.
Take Care of Yourself: Make sure to get enough rest, eat well, and manage stress during your preparation. Physical and mental well-being can impact your performance on the test.
Review and Repeat: As you approach your test date, review your study materials and continue to practice regularly. Familiarity and repetition can help improve your confidence and performance on test day.
Tips for GRE Preparation
This section offers individual GRE preparation tips for Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
Quantitative Reasoning
- See the official guide of GRE Quant on the ETS website and list all maths topics.
- Memorize the question formats.
- Check the sample papers across various websites to see the extensively covered topics. Averages, percentages, number systems, and ratio-proportion are some common topics.
- Set a quant baseline and goal scores and time for solving the questions.
- Learn shortcuts and approximations to save time on questions.
- Use scratch paper while solving questions, as this will help hone your problem-solving skills.
- You will get a basic on-screen calculator for calculating the Quantitative Reasoning measure. Use the calculator wisely for tedious calculations such as square roots, long division, subtraction, addition, or multiplication of complex numbers. Incorporate the calculator in your practice tests from the beginning, as they are not easy to use.
- You can practice charts and geometry-related questions wisely, as many test takers find them confusing and hard to solve.
- Review your performance in the practice tests. Take down notes on questions that took more time to solve or you found difficult to answer and interpret.
Verbal Reasoning
- See the official guide of GRE Verbal Reasoning on the ETS website and list all topics.
- Build your vocabulary, which would help you ace Sentence Equivalence and Text Completion properly.
- Read the practice test comprehensions carefully to build your familiarity with them. You can also read articles from magazines like The Economist, The Atlantic, Scientific American, and The New Yorker.
- Always pay attention to the clues given in the question, such as main ideas and supporting ideas, transitions from the main idea to the other, and relationships between different ideas. Mastering the signal words will help you ace the transition sentences properly. Instead, indeed/furthermore, although, and however are some common signal words.
- Always refer to the information in the passage to answer the questions.
- Ace the tricks to solve the questions that require critical reasoning. While doing this, you should focus on the questions and their arguments.
- Develop a proper strategy for each GRE verbal question type.
Analytical Writing
- See the official guide of ETS to check on the instructions accompanying the AWA tasks.
- Practice for the issue essay.
- Read the assumptions carefully before writing responses.
- Learn to identify false evidence, generalization, and statistics.
- Always use strong statements to enhance the readability of the essay.
- Try to conclude the essay with a recommendation.
- Proofread your essay before submission.
Eligibility
Any student who is planning to take an admission to graduate, business, and law school can take GRE. It is considered an important part of their application. Having said that, a student must check the university or college website (that they intend to attend) to know the required score. Different universities or colleges have different score requirements. Unlike other standardized exams, this exam has no eligibility criteria.
- Age: There is no specific age limit for GRE exam. A candidate of any age can attend the exam.
- Exam Qualification: The ETS has not made any official statement about the eligible exam qualification. However, a graduate in any discipline can attend the test.
- Score: This would entirely depend on your host organization. The ETS has set no minimum qualifying score for GRE.
Best Books For GRE Preparation In 2024
As of 2024, there are several highly recommended books for GRE preparation that you may find useful. Here are some of the best books:
Official GRE Super Power Pack: Published by ETS, the makers of the GRE, this pack includes the Official Guide to the GRE General Test, the Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions, and the Official GRE Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions.
The Princeton Review GRE Prep Books: The Princeton Review offers comprehensive GRE prep books that cover all sections of the test. “Cracking the GRE” and “GRE Premium Prep” are popular choices.
Kaplan’s GRE Prep Books: Kaplan’s GRE prep books are also highly regarded. “GRE Prep Plus” and “GRE Complete 2024” are comprehensive options with practice tests and online resources.
Barron’s GRE: Barron’s GRE prep book is known for its comprehensive content and challenging practice questions. It’s a good resource for those looking for extra practice.
Manhattan Prep GRE Books: Manhattan Prep offers a series of GRE prep books that are well-regarded for their in-depth content and realistic practice questions.
McGraw-Hill Education GRE Premium: This book offers a comprehensive review of the GRE, with practice tests and online resources.
These books are just a few options available for GRE preparation. It’s a good idea to choose one or two that align with your study preferences and schedule, and supplement them with online resources and practice tests.
How to Register for GRE exam?
o register for the GRE exam, follow these steps:
Create an ETS Account: Go to the ETS website (ets.org) and create an account. This account will be used to register for the GRE and access your scores later.
Select a Test Date and Location: Log in to your ETS account and select a test date and location that are convenient for you. The GRE is offered year-round at test centers around the world, so you should have several options to choose from.
Complete the Registration Form: Fill out the registration form with your personal information, including your name, address, and identification details. Make sure the information matches the identification you will bring on test day.
Pay the Exam Fee: The GRE exam fee varies by country but is typically around $205. You can pay online using a credit or debit card. Some countries also accept other forms of payment, such as PayPal or e-check.
Receive Confirmation: Once your registration is complete and your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and location. You can also log in to your ETS account to view this information.
Prepare for the Exam: With your registration complete, it’s time to start preparing for the GRE. Use study materials, practice tests, and other resources to help you get ready for test day.
Arrive Early on Test Day: On the day of the exam, arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time. Bring valid identification and any other required materials.
Take the Exam: Follow the instructions of the test center staff and complete the GRE exam according to the rules and guidelines.
After taking the exam, you will receive your scores within 10-15 days. You can view your scores online using your ETS account.
How to Reschedule your GRE Exam
The ETS allows you to reschedule your GRE exam 4 days before the test date. You will be charged a small rescheduling fee. Here are the steps for rescheduling the exam.
- Go to the ETS official website and log in using your email and password.
- You can check Upcoming Tests to reschedule the date.
- Click on the upcoming tests and see the Appointment Information page.
- Click on Reschedule Appointment to complete the process.
- You can reschedule the location or date of your GRE General Test.
- Select the two-month period when you would like to appear for the test and hit the Continue button.
- Choose the date from the calendar, choose a nearby test location, and select “Show test times” for the location.
- Click on Register and you will see a pop-up asking if you wish to make the changes to the appointment. You will get to see the Original Appointment and New Appointment. If you are satisfied with the information on New Appointment, then hit on Yes.
- Check your registration date, location, and time and proceed to checkout.
- You will receive a confirmation mail in your registered email id when your payment is verified.
GRE Test Centers In India
The GRE General and Subject Tests are conducted at various Prometric GRE test centers in India. Prometric offers technology-enabled testing to GRE. The following is the list of some popular Prometric GRE test centers in India.
| Location | Address of the Test Center | |
| Bangalore | Prometric Testing Private Limited 3rd Floor Tower B Prestige Shanti Niketan Whitefield ITPL Road Bangalore South Taluk Bangalore, India | IDomain Technologies No 65, First Floor, 2nd ‘A’ Cross K.H.B Colony, Koramangla, 5th Block Behind INFOSYS and TAVANT Technologies Building Opp to Peas Park Bangalore, India |
| New Delhi | Cyberstation CPS Global E-512. 3rd Floor Sector-7 Dwarka (Near – Ramphal Chowk) New Delhi, India Council for American Education A-260 (3rd Floor) Defence colony New Delhi, India | Merit A-9, Qutab Institutional Area Qutab Institutional Area, Near JNU U.S.O Road, Shaheed Jit Singh Marg New Delhi, India Shiksha Overseas 25/33, Lower Ground Floor East Patel Nagar New Delhi, India 296, First Floor Satya Niketan New Delhi, India |
| Chennai | Prometric Testing Private Limited Unit #8,3rd Floor, Centennial Square, No 6A, Dr Ambedkar Road, Kodambakkam, Chennai, India | Everonn Systems India Limited 15, Jagannathan Road, Nungambakkam 2nd Floor, Romar House Chennai, India |
| Mumbai | Collegepond Counsellors Pvt Ltd ML Spaces, Dashrathlal Joshi RD 2nd FI, Ofc. 206, Above Bank of Baroda, Mumbai, IND | |
| Hyderabad | Prometric Testing Private Limited 9th Floor, Unit -2, Kapil Towers IT Block Survey No 115/1, IT Park, Opp ICICI Bank bldg Nanakramguda, Serilingampaly, Mandal, Gachibowli Hyderabad, India | |
| Kolkata | Indexpo Corporation “Binary House” – 2, Circus Market Place, 2nd Near “Our Lady Queen Of The Missions” School, (Park Circus 7 point crossing) Kolkata, India | |
| Allahabad | IPEM 119/25A Mahatama Gandhi Marg Civil Lines Allahabad, India | |
| Ahmedabad | Prometric Testing Private Limited 5th Floor, Unit 501, Parshwanath Esquare, Prahaladnagar Corporate Road, Prahaladnagar, Satellite Ahmedabad, India | |
| Pune | GRAD Dreams Education Consulting Pvt Ltd 205 – 206, 2nd Floor, Manish Plaza Opposite Bhramha Majestic, N.I.B.M Road, Kondhwa, Pune, India | |
| Trivandrum | Prometric Testing Private Limited C/o Hotel Ruby Arena, Kumarapuram Road Trivandrum, India | Prometric Testing Private Limited 7th Floor, K.E.K Towers Opp. Trida Complex, Maloor Lane Vazhuthacaud Trivandrum, India |
| Mysore | Exuberant Technologies Pvt Ltd #19, Block No.8 Diya Complex Dr.Rajkumar Road JSS Layout Mysore, India | |
| Gurgaon | Prometric Testing Private Limited Iris Tech Park, 2nd Floor Tower A, Sector 48, Sohna Road Gurgaon, India | ETS Onsite UAS Intl Production Lab 2nd Floor, DLF Infinity Tower A Sector 25 Gurgaon, India |
| Coimbatore | ANCONS International #15, Sethuram Bldg, G.Flr Sundaresa Layout Lane adj IOB Race Course Br. Trichy Road Coimbatore, India | |
| Chandigarh | Saint Kabir Public School Sector 26 – Computer Lab Chandigarh UT, India | |
Things to Keep In Mind at a GRE Test Center
The ETS has set several testing procedures and guidelines, which every test taker has to follow:
- Dress appropriately and avoid writing any test related information on body or any part of dress or accessories.
- Do not carry food, tobacco, beverages, or any drugs or cigarettes into the testing room.
- Do not carry any weapons or firearms to the testing center.
- You may be subjected to visual inspection and scanning at the entrance of the test center during check-in and when returning from breaks.
- If you have to carry beverages, snack, medication or any equipment to the test center, you need to follow the procedures described in the GRE bulletin.
- Avoid using any type of electronic items in the test center. This may include phones, tablets, wearable devices, and other devices.
- Turn off any alarms and phones before entering the test center.
- Avoid wearing any jewelry to the test center.
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