GRE

GRE Exam: The Complete Guide for Aspiring Graduate Students

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the most widely accepted standardized tests for admission to graduate programs worldwide, including Master’s, Ph.D., and MBA programs. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE assesses a candidate’s analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills, providing a comprehensive measure of their preparedness for graduate-level academic work.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about the GRE exam, including its structure, syllabus, scoring system, eligibility criteria, registration process, preparation strategies, and a list of top colleges that accept GRE scores. Whether you’re aiming for a STEM program, humanities, or an MBA, the GRE opens doors to a variety of graduate programs across the globe.

What is the GRE Exam?

The GRE is a standardized test that serves as a gateway to graduate schools around the world. It is accepted by thousands of graduate programs, including MS, MA, MBA, and Ph.D. courses across various disciplines. The test is designed to evaluate the fundamental skills needed for academic success at the graduate level.

The GRE General Test assesses critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in three core areas: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. The test is available in two formats: computer-based and paper-based. The computer-based GRE is the most common format, but paper-based tests are offered in locations where computer testing is not available.

Why Take the GRE?

The GRE is a versatile exam, opening pathways to a wide range of graduate and business school programs globally. Here are a few reasons why taking the GRE could benefit you:

• Wide Acceptance: The GRE is accepted by business schools, law schools, and graduate schools in a variety of disciplines, making it one of the most versatile entrance exams.
• Program Flexibility: With a GRE score, you can apply to STEM programs, humanities, social sciences, and business schools, including top MBA programs like those at Harvard, Stanford, and MIT.
• Graduate and Ph.D. Programs: Many graduate programs, particularly in the USA, Canada, and Europe, require GRE scores as part of the application process.
• MBA Admissions: In addition to the GMAT, many MBA programs also accept the GRE, providing flexibility in your business school application journey.
• Score Select Option: The GRE offers the ScoreSelect option, allowing you to send your best scores to your chosen institutions, giving you more control over your admissions profile.

GRE Exam Structure

The GRE General Test is divided into three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Additionally, there is an Unscored section that ETS uses to test new questions, but it does not contribute to your score.

1. Analytical Writing

• Duration: 60 minutes (2 tasks)
• Tasks: You must write two essays: one that analyzes an issue and another that critiques an argument.
• Skills Tested: Critical thinking, clarity of ideas, coherent argument development, and writing proficiency.
• Scoring: Scores range from 0 to 6, in half-point increments.

2. Verbal Reasoning

• Duration: 60 minutes (2 sections of 30 minutes each)
• Number of Questions: 40 (20 per section)
• Question Types: Reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.
• Skills Tested: The Verbal Reasoning section assesses your ability to understand written material, evaluate arguments, and recognize relationships between words and concepts.
• Scoring: Scores range from 130 to 170, in one-point increments.

3. Quantitative Reasoning

• Duration: 70 minutes (2 sections of 35 minutes each)
• Number of Questions: 40 (20 per section)
• Question Types: Problem-solving, quantitative comparison, and data interpretation.
• Skills Tested: The Quantitative Reasoning section tests your ability to interpret quantitative data, solve mathematical problems, and understand basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
• Scoring: Scores range from 130 to 170, in one-point increments.

4. Unscored or Research Section

• Duration: Varies
• Purpose: This section is either unscored or used for research purposes by ETS. The questions here do not count toward your final GRE score.

GRE Scoring System

The GRE has a scoring system that provides a total score as well as section-specific scores. Here’s how it works:

• Total Score: The total score is the sum of the Verbal and Quantitative scores. The total GRE score ranges from 260 to 340.
• Verbal and Quantitative Sections: Both the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in one-point increments.
• Analytical Writing: This section is scored separately, on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments.

Most top graduate programs look for a combined score of around 310 or higher, while the AWA score is often expected to be in the 4.0 to 5.0 range for competitive programs.

GRE Eligibility

Unlike some other entrance exams, the GRE has no specific eligibility criteria regarding age, educational qualifications, or nationality. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Age Requirement: There is no formal age requirement for the GRE, but most candidates are at least in the final year of their undergraduate degree.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates usually hold or are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Graduate programs may have their own eligibility requirements, such as a completed bachelor’s degree.

GRE Registration Process

Registering for the GRE is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to register:

1. Create an ETS Account: Visit the official ETS GRE website and create an account.
2. Choose Your Test Format: Select whether you want to take the computer-based GRE or the paper-based GRE. In most locations, the computer-based test is more commonly available.
3. Select a Test Center and Date: Choose a convenient test center and select a test date that suits your preparation timeline. The GRE is available year-round, so you can select a date that works for you.
4. Pay the Fee: The GRE test fee is usually $220, though this may vary depending on your location.
5. Take the Test: Show up at your test center or log in for your online GRE exam on your chosen test date.

GRE Syllabus Overview

The GRE syllabus is designed to test a wide range of skills essential for success in graduate-level studies. Here’s an overview of the topics covered in each section:

Quantitative Reasoning

• Arithmetic: Integers, fractions, percentages, ratios, powers, and roots.
• Algebra: Simplification of algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, and functions.
• Geometry: Angles, triangles, circles, area, perimeter, volume, and coordinate geometry.
• Data Interpretation: Reading and interpreting graphs, charts, and tables.
• Word Problems: Time, speed, distance, and work problems.

Verbal Reasoning

• Reading Comprehension: Passages from academic subjects including social sciences, natural sciences, and the humanities. Questions assess your ability to comprehend, interpret, and analyze the information presented in the passage.
• Text Completion: Fill-in-the-blank questions where you select the best word(s) to complete the sentence.
• Sentence Equivalence: Questions that ask you to select two words that best complete a sentence with the same meaning.

Analytical Writing

• Issue Essay: You’ll be asked to write an essay in which you express your opinion on a given topic.
• Argument Essay: In this essay, you must critique an argument by identifying its logical flaws and presenting a clear evaluation.

How to Prepare for the GRE

1. Understand the Exam Format

Before starting your GRE prep, familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types. The better you understand the test structure, the more effectively you can prepare.

2. Create a Study Plan

• Diagnostic Test: Start by taking a full-length diagnostic test to assess your current skill level.
• Daily Study Goals: Break your study time into manageable segments, focusing on improving one section at a time.
• Practice Tests: Take regular practice tests to monitor your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly.

3. Use Official GRE Prep Materials

• ETS GRE Prep Books: The official GRE guide from ETS includes real practice questions and answers.
• PowerPrep Online: This free tool offers full-length practice tests to simulate the GRE test experience.
• Stalwart Career Institute: If you need professional guidance, consider enrolling in a GRE preparation course with us, where experienced instructors guide you through the content and test strategies.

4. Focus on Weak Areas

• Verbal Practice: If you struggle with vocabulary, practice daily with flashcards or GRE vocabulary apps.
• Quantitative Practice: For math sections, focus on solving problems in algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
• Writing Practice: Develop your essay-writing skills by practicing with real GRE topics.

Colleges Accepting GRE Scores

The GRE is accepted by thousands of graduate programs globally, including MS, Ph.D., and MBA programs. Below are some of the top institutions:

Top Global Universities

• Harvard University (USA)
• Stanford University (USA)
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (USA)
• University of Oxford (UK)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• National University of Singapore (Singapore)
• ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
• University of Melbourne (Australia)

Top Indian Universities

• Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
• Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) (for select programs)
• Indian School of Business (ISB)
• BITS Pilani
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)

Business Schools Accepting GRE Scores

• Harvard Business School (USA)
• Stanford Graduate School of Business (USA)
• MIT Sloan School of Management (USA)
• London Business School (UK)
• INSEAD (France/Singapore)
• IE Business School (Spain)

GRE FAQs

How Often Can I Take the GRE?

You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times in a 12-month period.

How Long is the GRE Score Valid?

GRE scores are valid for five years, giving you ample time to apply to various graduate and business programs.

What is the GRE Subject Test?

In addition to the GRE General Test, candidates can take GRE Subject Tests in specific areas like Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, and Chemistry. These are optional tests but can strengthen your application for specialized programs.

What is a Good GRE Score?

A good GRE score depends on the program you’re applying to. For top universities, a score above 320 is competitive, while most universities accept scores in the 300 to 320 range.

Conclusion

The GRE exam is your gateway to a wide range of graduate programs, from STEM fields to business and humanities. Preparing for the GRE requires a strategic approach, consistent practice, and effective time management.

At Stalwart Career Institute, we provide comprehensive preparation courses tailored to help you succeed on the GRE, offering personalized study plans, expert guidance, and practice tests to help you achieve your target score. For personalized GRE coaching in Indore, expert guidance, and comprehensive test preparation, join Stalwart Career Institute.