What is the GRE Exam? An Overview

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that is widely used for admissions to graduate and business schools around the world. The exam assesses your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. In this guide, we’ll explore what the GRE is, its purpose, structure, and how it is used in the admissions process.

1. What is the GRE?

The GRE is a standardized test administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is designed to measure your ability to succeed in graduate-level work. The test is required by many graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in a wide range of fields, from engineering to the social sciences to business.

Why is the GRE Important?

The GRE is often a key component in the graduate school application process. Many programs use GRE scores to help evaluate applicants' readiness for graduate-level study. While the weight given to GRE scores varies by program, a strong score can make a significant difference in your application, particularly if your academic background or professional experience is unconventional or lacks certain qualifications.

2. GRE Exam Structure

The GRE is divided into three main sections, each designed to assess a different set of skills:

  • Verbal Reasoning: This section tests your ability to analyze and evaluate written material, as well as your understanding of relationships among words and concepts.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: This section measures your problem-solving abilities, your understanding of basic mathematical concepts, and your ability to reason quantitatively.
  • Analytical Writing: This section evaluates your ability to articulate complex ideas, support them with relevant evidence, and organize your thoughts clearly in written form.

Test Length and Timing

The GRE exam is typically around 3 hours and 45 minutes long, with the following breakdown:

  • Verbal Reasoning: 35 minutes for each of two sections (total 70 minutes)
  • Quantitative Reasoning: 35 minutes for each of two sections (total 70 minutes)
  • Analytical Writing: 60 minutes (two tasks, 30 minutes each)

In addition to the above sections, the GRE also includes an unscored research section. This section is included to help ETS test new questions and does not count towards your score. You won’t know which section is the research section during the exam, so it’s important to give each section your full attention.

3. Types of GRE Tests

There are two types of GRE exams: the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Tests.

The GRE General Test

The GRE General Test is the most common version of the test and is required by most graduate programs. It evaluates your general academic abilities and consists of the three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.

The GRE Subject Tests

The GRE Subject Tests are specialized exams that assess your knowledge in a particular subject area, such as Psychology, Physics, Mathematics, or Biology. These tests are used by certain graduate programs to assess a candidate's specialized knowledge in a specific field. However, the Subject Tests are not required by most programs and are taken only if specified by the program you're applying to.

4. How the GRE is Scored

The GRE is scored on a scale based on your performance in each section. Here’s how the scoring works:

  • Verbal Reasoning: Scores range from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Scores range from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments.
  • Analytical Writing: Scores range from 0 to 6, in half-point increments.

Your GRE scores are valid for five years, meaning you can submit them to graduate programs even if you took the test several years ago. After the test, you will receive your scores in about 10–15 days for the General Test, while Subject Test results may take longer.

How is the GRE Scored?

The GRE scoring system uses a computer-adaptive format for the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. This means that the difficulty of the questions adapts based on your performance: if you perform well on an early question, the test will present more difficult questions later on. However, this process does not apply to the Analytical Writing section, which is scored separately by human raters.

5. When and Where to Take the GRE

The GRE is offered year-round at testing centers around the world. You can register for the GRE on the official ETS website, where you’ll find available test dates and locations. Be sure to register early, especially if you are aiming to take the test during peak application seasons.

Important Registration Deadlines

It’s important to register for the GRE well in advance to ensure you secure your preferred test date and location. Many graduate programs have application deadlines, so be sure to plan ahead and register for the GRE early enough to receive your scores in time.

6. Who Should Take the GRE?

The GRE is typically taken by students who are applying to graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees, in various fields of study. Some business schools also require GRE scores as part of their MBA admissions process, although the GMAT is more commonly used for business school applications. If you are interested in pursuing advanced studies, it’s important to check whether the programs you are applying to require GRE scores.

7. Conclusion

The GRE is an important exam for anyone looking to apply to graduate school. Understanding its structure, purpose, and how it’s scored is crucial for your preparation. Whether you're applying for a master’s program or a PhD, performing well on the GRE can enhance your application and increase your chances of acceptance. Be sure to plan ahead, practice regularly, and approach the test with confidence!