In this introduction to the GRE guide, we will give you an overview of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
What is the GRE Test?
GRE is a standardized English and Math test that is used as a requirement for Masters and PhD admissions across the globe in countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, the UK, and Pakistan, etc. in various programs, as well as for certain prestigious scholarships, such as the Fulbright.
In this article, we are going to tell you what comprises the GRE test, why you need it, and where you can find study guides and useful resources in your preparation.
Who manages the GRE General Test?
The GRE General test is a standardized test that is a mandatory requirement for admissions into the majority of graduate schools around the globe, especially in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. It is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Types of GRE:
There are two types of GRE Tests:
GRE General
GRE Subject
All graduate schools accept GRE General (with few exceptions). However, in certain programs, GRE Subject is also a requirement. There are eight fields that sometimes require GRE Subjects too. For further details about the GRE Subject test, please click here.
Who takes the GRE Test?
Applicants pursuing a master’s degree, MBA, or a doctoral degree (Ph.D.), have to take the GRE General Test. This is because as applicants come from varying educational and cultural backgrounds, the GRE General Test provides schools with a common measure for comparing candidates’ academic abilities in addition to their Grade Point Average (GPAs).
In some schools or programs, if the GRE is not required, students with a good GPA will increase their chances of admissions and scholarships.
GRE Structure and Pattern:
GRE tests are taken in both computer and paper-based formats. In the majority of countries, you can only register for the computer-based GRE.
The testing time for the computer-based GRE General Test is about 3 hours and 45 minutes. There are six sections with a 10-minute break following the third section.
The GRE General Test is a multistage test. This format allows the student to move back and forth between questions that are a part of the same section, and the testing software allows the student to “mark” questions within each section so that they can be reviewed later if time permits.
GRE Sections:
Analytical Writing Section (AW)
This section consists of two different essays, “Issue” and “Argument.” The details of the two prompts are as such:
Analyze an Issue Essay:
It tests the student’s ability to convince the examiner to agree to their point of view. Issue topics are usually selected from a pool of questions, which are published on the ETS website.
Analyze an Argument Essay:
The students are given an argument (i.e. a series of facts and considerations leading to a conclusion), and are asked to write an essay to criticize the given argument. Moreover, students are required to carefully understand the argument’s logic and then make suggestions about how the logic of the argument can be improved.
Quantitative Reasoning Sections
The Quantitative Reasoning sections assess a student’s high school level mathematics and measure basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, statistics, geometry, data analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities. The break-up of each quantitative section is as follows:
It also includes numeric entry questions, which require the students to fill in the blanks.
A basic on-screen calculator is also available for the sections in which calculators are allowed.
Verbal Reasoning Sections
The Verbal Reasoning sections assess a student’s reading comprehension skills, critical reasoning, and vocabulary usage. Therefore, every section consists of around six text completion, four-sentence equivalence, and ten reading comprehension & critical reading questions.
Experimental Section:
The experimental section (verbal or quantitative) consists of new question types that ETS is experimenting with for future use. However, the experimental section does not count in the main score. Therefore, students have no definite way of knowing which section is experimental, it is advisable for students to give their best in every section.
GRE Scores:
GRE report will reflect three scores:
GRE Test Dates:
You can take the GRE Test (computer-based) year-round at Prometric testing centers. In addition, students can take the GRE test once every 21 days. Also, they can only register for the GRE upto five times within a 12-month period. This applies even if a student has canceled their scores on a previously taken test.
Official Report:
After the actual exam, you can access the official report on your ETS account after approximately 10 working days.
How do I send scores to my university?
Your test fee entitles you to send scores to as many as four graduate institutions or fellowship sponsors for FREE.
On the test day, you can send scores to your respective universities. Afterwards, you can send your scores to as many programs as you like for a fee of $20 each.
Validity & Fee:
GRE scores are valid for five years and the fee is US $205/-.
ONLINE GUIDES AND RESOURCES
The internet is packed with guides, tips, and resources pertaining to the GRE. However, not all that glitters is gold. Begin your information about the exam format through the official ETS GRE website. Moreover, for guidance on how to prepare for the test, brush up on your skills, manage test time, and more, check our blog for all useful information.
First-step is to conduct a diagnostic test. This will help you to understand where you lie, what your strengths are, and where you need improvements. You may find a FREE diagnostic test from the official ETS GRE website.
Each individual is different, and so their needs, strengths, and weaknesses are also different. Therefore, there is no “one formula” for everyone. This is why our philosophy is to curate studying plans for each specific individual. Sift through the resources to find the ones that suit you best. Don’t focus on finishing all different GRE preparation books, but use your time wisely–brushing up on your concepts and practicing mock tests.
So register for the GRE Exam 2022 and study in your dream graduate schools!
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