Many students, especially if they don’t have parents with graduate degrees, don’t know much about the GRE. By the time they understand the basics of the exam, they’ve usually already decided whether or not they plan to take it. So, let’s look at a brief overview of some frequently asked questions about this grad school admissions exam. Here are some of the most common:
What is the GRE?
The GRE, or Graduate Record Examinations, is an admission exam for graduate programs. Many degree programs require it for acceptance.
What does the GRE measure?
The GRE evaluates the skills necessary for success in graduate school. These include verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
When should you take the GRE?
You should take the GRE as soon as you begin to think about applying to graduate schools. This will give you time to retake it should you choose to.
How much does it cost to take the GRE?
The fee for the GRE is $160 in the US and US territories, $90 in all other locations.
How is the GRE scored?
Verbal and quantitative scores are scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in one-point increments, whereas the analytical section is scored on a scale of zero to six in half-point increments.
How long does the GRE last?
The GRE General Test will take 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete, plus time for breaks and reading instructions. There are six sections to the GRE:
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One Analytical Writing section with two 30-minute tasks (This section is always the first an examinee receives.)
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Two Verbal Reasoning sections (30 minutes each)
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Two Quantitative Reasoning sections (35 minutes each)
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One unscored section, typically a Verbal Reasoning or Quantitative Reasoning section, that may appear at any point in the computer-based GRE revised General Test
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An identified research section that is not scored may also be included in the computer-based GRE revised General Test
How do you prepare for the GRE?
There are many ways to study for the GRE. Many test-takers choose to take advantage of the many resources available, such as study books, practice exams, and prep courses.
When are scores available?
If you take the GRE at a computerized testing center, you will get immediate results for the verbal and quantitative reasoning portions of your exam and you should expect to see your writing scores online within 10-15 days. If you opt for the paper-based exam, it may take up to three months to receive your scores.
How long is the score valid?
GRE scores are valid for five years after the testing date. After five years, graduate school admissions offices will not accept scores.
Can I retake the GRE?
Yes. Many students retake the GRE because they are trying to improve their score or because their five-year time limit has run out. The only restriction is that you must wait 21 days after the most recent time you’ve taken the exam to attempt it again.
What is the GRE Subject Test? Do I need to take it?
There are some subject areas (biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, biology, chemistry, computer science, literature in English, mathematics, physics, and psychology) that have specialized versions of the GRE. Check with each school individually to find out whether or not they require it for admittance into their program. While the GRE Subject Test is mandatory in some graduate programs, it never takes the place of the GRE General Test.
