GRE Exam Preparation: Boost Your Graduate Records Exams
The GRE exam is a standardized test used by universities and graduate schools to evaluate the skills of prospective students. This page provides information on the format, registration process, test dates, and other essential details for the GRE exam.
What is GRE Exam?
The GRE, an admission test required by most graduate and business schools in the US and other leading study destinations worldwide, is used by admissions authorities to measure applicants' preparedness for their master's studies. The test evaluates critical thinking, analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning abilities and is administered by ETS, a non-profit organization. Prospective applicants can take the GRE once every 21 days for up to five times within a continuous 12-month period.
Why Take the GRE Exam?
The GRE exam evaluates an individual's verbal and quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. While fluency in English is assumed, the verbal reasoning sections emphasize the ability to read efficiently and understand words in context, rather than rote memorization. The GRE is widely accepted at numerous graduate and business schools, with the weight placed on a GRE score varying from being a mere formality to being one of the most critical factors in graduate school admissions. The significance of GRE scores can vary widely among schools, and even among departments within schools, with high scores being especially crucial when other credentials are weak.
GRE Exam Highlights| Exam Name | GRE |
|---|---|
| GRE full form | Graduate Record Examinations |
| Official Website | https://www.ets.org/gre |
| Most popular for | MS courses in the USA |
| Also accepted for | MBA courses outside India |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-delivered test Paper-delivered test GRE at Home |
| Conducted by | ETS (Educational Testing Service) |
| GRE Exam Fees | US $228 |
| GRE Validity | 5 Years |
| Score Range | Verbal Reasoning score range: 130–170 Quantitative Reasoning score range: 130–170 Analytical Writing score range: 0–6 |
Types of GRE Exams
There are Two Types of GRE tests
What is GRE general test?
Students who aspire to pursue an MS degree in various subjects abroad opt for the GRE General Test, which evaluates their quantitative aptitude, analytical writing skills, and verbal reasoning abilities. The test is available all year round, and students have the flexibility to take it at their convenience. In areas where computer-based testing is unavailable, the paper-based GRE General Test is offered twice a year.
The GRE General Test is offered in three different formats:
What is GRE Subject test?
The GRE Subject Test evaluates a candidate's proficiency in a specific subject area. It covers various subjects such as Physics, Psychology, Mathematics, Literature (English), Biochemistry, Biology, and Chemistry. The exam is offered in September, October, and April and lasts for 2 hours and 50 minutes. Generally, this test is required for admission to specialized courses.
Candidates must appear for only one of the following subjects from the list below:
GRE general test vs subject test
Candidates can check the table below to understand how the GRE General Test differs from the GRE Subject Test.
| Query | GRE GENERAL TEST | GRE SUBJECT TEST |
| Type of test | An aptitude eligibility test to seek admission in a B-school or a Masters abroad | Subject-based eligibility test to seek graduation or a post-graduation abroad in a specialized subject |
|---|---|---|
| Conducted | Computer-based center, or via a paper-delivered test | A paper-delivered test conducted thrice a year in the months of September, April, and October |
| Test | Overall aptitude test of Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing | Tests conducted in various subjects - Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Psychology |
| GRE Test Duration | 3 hrs 45 mins | 2 hrs 50 mins |
| Scoring | 260-340 score scale, in 1-point increment | 200 to 990 score scale, in 10-point increments |
When to apply for GRE?
There's no definitive answer as to when the best time is to take the GRE Exam. The GRE test is offered year-round, both at test centres and online via GRE at Home. Candidates who are unsure about the ideal timing for their exam should consider registering once they feel well-prepared. According to GRE experts, taking the exam 60-90 days prior to the university application deadline is ideal. This provides candidates with enough time to retake the GRE test if necessary.
GRE Exam Eligibility
ETS does not impose specific eligibility criteria for taking the GRE exam, and there are no age or qualification restrictions for candidates. However, candidates intending to pursue a master's program are usually required to take the GRE test. It is important to note that candidates must present their original passport or Aadhar Card, starting from July 1 2021, as a form of identification during the GRE registration process. Therefore, candidates must have a valid passport or Aadhar Card before registering for the GRE exam.
Age LimitThere is no age limit set for candidates wanting to appear for their GRE test
Exam QualificationETS has not announced any official statement regarding the qualification required to appear for GRE Exam. However, candidates are expected to possess a graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
GRE Exam Fees
GRE Syllabus
The GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test have different syllabi. Students' abilities in verbal thinking, mathematical reasoning, and critical writing are assessed on the GRE General Test syllabus. However, since the Subject Test evaluates a candidate's expert knowledge in particular areas, students who wish to study specialist topics may be compelled to take it by the college or university they are going to.
GRE Analytical Writing Syllabus requires you toGRE Exam Structure
| Verbal Reasoning (60 minutes) | Two sections with 20 questions each,30 minutes allotted to each section allowing 1-4 minutes to address each question |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning (70 minutes) | Two sections with 20 questions each ,35 minutes allotted to each section allowing 1.5-2 minutes to address each question |
| Analytical Writing Assessment (60 mins) | Two essays based on issue & argument • 30 minutes allotted to write each essay |
| Total Scores | GRE scores are out of 340 |
| Total Time | 3 hours, 45 minutes |
GRE Registration
Candidates have several options to register for the GRE exam, including online, over the phone, through mail, or by fax. To book a slot for the GRE test, aspirants must pay the registration fee of US$228 using a debit or credit card and have a valid passport or Aadhar Card during the registration process.
Ways to register for GRE Test
GRE Exam Dates
The GRE exam offers several test dates in India throughout 2023, allowing candidates to choose the date that best suits their schedule. To ensure that their scores are available in time for their university application, candidates should select a GRE exam date that is at least two to three months before their application deadline. For instance, if the deadline is in November, the candidate should choose a test date in August or September. If a candidate wishes to retake the exam, they may do so in October. It is important to make a well informed decision about when to begin preparing for the GRE.
If you are considering taking the GRE exam, we encourage you to explore the various resources available, such as official ETS study materials, online courses, and test-taking strategies. At Maxxcell, we offer comprehensive GRE preparation programs tailored to meet individual needs and learning styles. Our expert instructors and personalized approach can help you achieve your desired GRE scores and reach your academic goals.
So, don't wait any longer, take the first step towards your academic journey today by contacting Maxxcell to learn more about our GRE preparation programs and start your path to success!