What is the GRE Exam?

The GRE General Test is a computer-delivered test. Its test-taker friendly design lets you skip questions within a section, go back and change answers and have the flexibility to choose which questions within a section you want to answer first.

Why Take the GRE?

  1. Graduate School Admissions:
  • The GRE is required or accepted by thousands of graduate programs across various disciplines, including sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and business.
  • Many MBA programs now accept GRE scores as an alternative to the GMAT, offering flexibility for applicants who may be considering both types of graduate programs.
  • A strong GRE score demonstrates your readiness for the rigorous academic work expected in graduate school and can strengthen your application.
  • High GRE scores can improve your chances of receiving scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships from graduate programs.
  1. Business School Admissions:
  2. Showcase Your Skills:
  3. Scholarships and Fellowships:

Structure of the GRE Exam

The overall test time is about 1 hour and 58 minutes. There are five sections.

The Analytical Writing section will always be first. The Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections may appear in any order after the Analytical Writing section.

 

Scoring

  • Total GRE Score:
    • The total score is based on the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections. Each section is scored on a scale of 130 to 170, in one-point increments. The combined score ranges from 260 to 340.
  • Analytical Writing Score:
    • Scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments. This score is separate from your Verbal and Quantitative scores.
  • Score Validity:
    • GRE scores are valid for five years, providing flexibility in your application timeline.

Registration and Exam Dates

For test takers in India, please visit ETS India website.

Total fees

Special Handling requests

Scoring services

Preparing for the GRE

  1. Understand the Format:
  • Familiarize yourself with the GRE’s structure and types of questions. Knowing what to expect will help reduce anxiety and improve your time management on test day.
  • Create a study schedule that allows ample time to cover all sections of the exam. Focus on your weaker areas while reinforcing your strengths.
  • Regularly take full-length practice tests to build stamina and get used to the timing of the exam. Review your answers to understand where you went wrong and how to improve.
  1. Develop a Study Plan:
  2. Take Practice Tests:

Test Day: What to Expect

  • Arrival:
    • Arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring a valid ID that matches the name on your registration.
  • Security Measures:
    • Expect strict security protocols, including digital fingerprinting and photograph verification. Personal items are not allowed in the testing room.

Sending GRE Scores to Schools

  • Score Reporting:
    • After completing the exam, you can choose up to four graduate programs to receive your GRE scores at no additional cost. You can send scores to additional programs for a fee.
  • Score Select:
    • The GRE offers a "ScoreSelect" option, allowing you to send only your best scores to schools. This is especially useful if you have taken the test multiple times.
  • Retaking the GRE:
    • You can retake the GRE every 21 days, up to five times within a rolling 12-month period. Schools generally consider your highest score, though all scores from the past five years may be visible on your report.

GRE vs. GMAT

  • Choosing Between GRE and GMAT:
    • While both the GRE and GMAT are accepted by many business schools, the GRE is generally more versatile, as it is accepted by a broader range of graduate programs. The GRE has a more diverse verbal section, while the GMAT focuses more on data interpretation and problem-solving. Consider your strengths and the requirements of your target programs when deciding which test to take.

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