What Is the GRE?

The GRE is a standardized test administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It’s widely accepted by graduate and business schools as part of the admissions process.

Unlike exams that focus on subject-specific knowledge, the GRE tests your readiness for graduate-level academic work by assessing:

• Verbal Reasoning

• Quantitative Reasoning

• Analytical Writing

The GRE is taken by hundreds of thousands of students each year and is accepted by thousands of graduate programs worldwide.

Who Should Take the GRE?

The GRE is primarily for:

• Students applying to graduate schools in fields like social sciences, humanities, engineering, and sciences.

• Applicants to MBA programs that accept the GRE in place of the GMAT.

• Individuals applying to doctoral programs (PhD) or dual-degree programs (e.g., JD/PhD).

Tip: Always check the specific test requirements of the schools and programs you’re applying to. Some may prefer or require a different exam (like the GMAT for business or LSAT for law).

What’s on the GRE?

The GRE has three main sections, each designed to test a different skill set:

1. Analytical Writing (1 section – 1 hour)

• Two tasks:

  • “Analyze an Issue” essay

  • “Analyze an Argument” essay

• You’ll be judged on your ability to present and support complex ideas clearly and logically.

2. Verbal Reasoning (2 sections – 41 minutes each)

• Measures your ability to:

  • Understand the meaning of words and texts

  • Analyze written passages

  • Evaluate arguments

• Includes reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.

3. Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections – 47 minutes each)

• Tests basic math skills and reasoning

• Topics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis

• Question types include problem-solving and quantitative comparison.

Optional Sections

Some GRE versions may include experimental or research sections, which don’t count toward your score but are used by ETS to test future questions.

How Is the GRE Scored?

• Your total GRE score (out of 340) is the sum of your Verbal and Quant scores.

• Scores remain valid for five years.

GRE Format: Online or In-Center?

You can take the GRE:

• At a test center

• At home (GRE General Test at Home) — a proctored version that’s available in most countries

Both options offer the same content, format, and scoring.

How to Prepare for the GRE

Here’s a step-by-step prep guide:

1. Take a Diagnostic Test: Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

2. Choose Study Materials:

   • Official ETS resources

   • Prep books (e.g., Kaplan, Manhattan Prep, Princeton Review)

   • Online platforms (e.g., Magoosh, Khan Academy)

3. Create a Study Plan: Dedicate at least 2–3 months, depending on your background.

4. Practice Timed Tests: Simulate test-day conditions.

5. Review Your Mistakes: Analyze and learn from errors.

6. Work on Essays: Practice both issue and argument tasks with feedback.

7. Build Vocabulary: Especially for the verbal section.

GRE Tips for Success

• Practice mental math to save time on the Quant section.

• Read academic articles to sharpen your critical reading.

• Don’t skip essays in your prep—even if you’re strong in writing.

• Guess strategically — there’s no penalty for wrong answers.

• Register early to secure your ideal test date and center.

Final Thoughts

The GRE can open doors to some of the most competitive graduate programs around the world. While it’s not the only factor in admissions, a strong GRE score can significantly boost your application.

Whether you’re a math whiz, a wordsmith, or somewhere in between, preparation is the key to mastering the GRE.