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GRE Exam: Everything You Need to Know

Overview

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that is an essential part of the admissions process for many graduate schools and business programs worldwide. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE is designed to measure your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills—skills that are crucial for success in graduate and business school programs. The GRE is accepted by thousands of universities and institutions in over 160 countries, making it a widely recognized benchmark for academic readiness.

The GRE can be taken as a computer-based or paper-based test, depending on your location. While the computer-based test is more commonly available, the paper-based version is offered in regions where computer-based testing is not feasible. The test is available throughout the year, allowing candidates to choose a date that best fits their schedule.

Exam Structure

The GRE is divided into three main sections:

  1. Analytical Writing:
    • Consists of two tasks: “Analyze an Issue” and “Analyze an Argument.”
    • Each task has a time limit of 30 minutes.
    • This section evaluates your ability to articulate complex ideas, support arguments with evidence, and maintain a focused and coherent discussion.
  2. Verbal Reasoning:
    • Includes two sections, each with 20 questions.
    • Time allotted: 30 minutes per section.
    • Tests your ability to understand and analyze written material, recognize relationships among words, and work with complex sentence structures.
    • Common question types: Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence.
  3. Quantitative Reasoning:
    • Includes two sections, each with 20 questions.
    • Time allotted: 35 minutes per section.
    • Assesses your problem-solving ability using arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
    • Common question types: Quantitative Comparison, Problem Solving, and Data Interpretation.
  4. Unscored and Research Sections (Optional):
    • ETS may include an unscored section to test new questions or a research section at the end of the test. These sections do not contribute to your final score.

Registration

Registering for the GRE is straightforward. Follow these steps:

  1. Create an ETS Account:
    • Visit the official ETS website and create an account if you don’t already have one.
  2. Choose a Test Date and Location:
    • Select a test date and location that suits you. Keep in mind that test centers can fill up quickly, especially during peak application seasons.
  3. Pay the Exam Fee:
    • Once you’ve selected a date and location, pay the registration fee to confirm your booking.
  4. Receive Confirmation:
    • After successful registration, you’ll receive an email confirmation with details of your test.

Exam Fees

As of 2025, the registration fee for the GRE is $220 in most countries. However, the fee may vary depending on your location. Additional costs include:

  • Rescheduling Fee: $50
  • Changing Test Center Fee: $50
  • Score Report Fees (for reports sent to more than four institutions): $27 per recipient

ETS offers a Fee Reduction Program for eligible candidates based on financial need, which provides a 50% discount on the registration fee.

Preparation

Preparing for the GRE requires a strategic approach:

  1. Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the test structure and question types.
  2. Use Official Resources: Utilize ETS’s official practice materials, including free practice tests and the “Official Guide to the GRE.”
  3. Practice Regularly: Take full-length practice tests to build endurance and identify areas for improvement.
  4. Focus on Weak Areas: Analyze your practice test results to target specific weaknesses.
  5. Time Management: Practice answering questions within the allotted time to improve speed and accuracy.
  6. Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers to exchange strategies and tips.

Bootcamp

For those seeking an intensive preparation experience, GRE bootcamps are an excellent option. These programs typically offer:

  • Structured study plans tailored to your timeline.
  • Expert instructors with extensive experience in GRE preparation.
  • Regular practice tests with detailed feedback.
  • Focused sessions on high-yield topics, such as advanced quantitative reasoning or complex verbal passages.
  • Peer interaction and motivation.

Bootcamps can be online or in-person, ranging from weekend crash courses to month-long programs.

Top Scorers

Achieving a high GRE score requires dedication and strategic preparation. Common traits among top scorers include:

  1. Consistent Study Habits: Top scorers dedicate a set number of hours daily to GRE preparation.
  2. Mastery of Basics: They have a strong grasp of fundamental math concepts and vocabulary.
  3. Mock Test Strategy: Regular practice tests help them identify patterns and optimize their approach.
  4. Stress Management: They develop techniques to stay calm and focused during the test.
  5. Adaptability: They’re flexible and can adjust their strategies based on question difficulty.

FAQs

1. How long is the GRE valid?

  • GRE scores are valid for five years from the test date.

2. Can I retake the GRE?

  • Yes, you can take the GRE up to five times within a rolling 12-month period, with a minimum gap of 21 days between attempts.

3. What is a good GRE score?

  • A good score depends on your target programs. Generally, scores above 160 in Verbal and Quantitative sections and 4.5 in Analytical Writing are considered competitive.

4. Is the GRE required for all graduate programs?

  • No, some programs have made the GRE optional or waived it altogether. Check with individual institutions for their requirements.

5. How do I send my scores to schools?

  • You can select up to four institutions to receive your scores for free on test day. Additional reports can be sent for a fee.

6. What’s the difference between GRE General Test and GRE Subject Tests?

  • The GRE General Test assesses general skills, while Subject Tests focus on specific fields like Biology, Chemistry, Literature, and Mathematics.

Preparing for the GRE can be a transformative journey. With the right resources, dedication, and strategy, you can achieve a score that opens doors to your dream graduate programs.