The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that measures a candidate’s readiness for graduate school. It is accepted by thousands of
law, graduate, and business school worldwide. A high GRE score demonstrates to an admission committee/board that an applicant is fully prepared for the rigours that come with graduate-level study. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) is responsible for administering the test.
Types/Versions of GRE
There are two types of GRE tests: the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. The GRE General Test evaluates a candidate’s skills in several areas like quantitative and verbal reasoning, while the GRE Subject Test is designed to test a candidate’s knowledge in a specific subject. There are four GRE Subject Tests: chemistry, mathematics, physics, and psychology. The subject tests are primarily for those with a bachelor’s in any of the four disciplines.
The GRE General Test is computer-based and can be taken at home or a testing centre. The general test can also be offered as a paper-based test in locations where computer testing is unavailable On the other hand, the GRE Subject Tests are strictly administered in paper format.
Sections and Grading of GRE
The GRE General Test has three sections: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The verbal and quantitative sections are scored from 130-170 while the analytical writing is scored on a scale of 0-6 in half point increments. Test
takers also receive a percentile rank for each section that indicates how they performed compared to other test takers. For example, a score of 5.0 in the analytical writing section will earn you a percentile rank of around 93% which means you scored better than 93% of other test takers.
The GRE Subject Tests have no separate sections and are scored differently. Candidates are awarded total scores within a range of 200-990 based on their overall performance. The physics and psychology tests have sub-scores reported on a 20-99 score scale that indicate a candidate’s performance in each content area that makes up the subject test. Each overall score and sub-score in the GRE Subject Test is given a percentile rank as well.
It is important to note that GRE Subject Test scores are calculated independently, therefore, test scores can only be compared with other scores on the same subject test. A score of 650 on the Mathematics Test, is not equivalent to a 650 on the Chemistry Test. Scores on the same test are comparable across years i.e. a score of 700 in the Chemistry Test in 2020 is considered equivalent to a Chemistry Test score of 700 earned in 2022.
What’s a Pass GRE Score?
“A pass GRE score” is a relative term. What is a pass score for Candidate A may not be a pass score for Candidate B. The score you should aim for depends on the college and program you’re considering. When looking at applicants’ GRE scores, most graduate schools focus on the section that closely relates to your desired program. For example, if you’re applying for a M.Sc in Engineering, your quantitative section score will be the most important of your GRE scores. However, for a M.A in Archaeology, the verbal section score will carry more weight.
Validity Period of GRE
GRE results/scores are valid for a period of five years after the exam is taken.
Why People Get Low GRE Scores
The primary reasons people get low GRE scores are inadequate preparation and not understanding the pattern of the test. The GRE test is designed for graduates and as such it is not a walkover. Test takers who fail to start preparing early enough risk ending up with a less than satisfactory score and may have to retake the test. Want to start preparing for your test without further delay? We have some have some free GRE resources that you will find useful.
Tips for Scoring High in GRE
The only way to score high in the GRE tests is proper preparation with relevant materials. Candidates who get high scores in their GRE test are not necessarily the most intelligent, but those who understand how the test works and focus their
attention on the relevant areas. In addition to studying, ensure to take enough practice tests to help you know where you stand.
Tutorial/Training/Prep Courses for GRE
We have GRE prep courses designed to improve your critical thinking and analytical skills which are critical for acing your GRE test. If you need help catching up with undergraduate coursework relevant to the GRE test you intend to take, we have experienced private tutors that can help you. We also have some free tests that you can take if you want to get a sneak peek of what our prep courses look like.
Test Dates
Available test dates are displayed on the ETS website when scheduling a test.