The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test assessing skills needed for graduate-level studies, and at WHAT.EDU.VN, we understand you need clarity and direction in your educational journey. The GRE evaluates analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning, opening doors to advanced degrees. We provide free resources and answers to your questions. Let us help you demystify this crucial exam and navigate your path to success with expert insights and accessible support, including free consultation and a comprehensive knowledge base.
1. Understanding the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
The GRE assesses critical skills for graduate studies: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These sections measure your ability to analyze information, solve problems, and articulate complex ideas.
- Verbal Reasoning: This section evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written material. You’ll be asked to draw conclusions, identify key points, understand vocabulary in context, and analyze relationships between sentence components. It tests your reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
- Quantitative Reasoning: This portion assesses your ability to solve problems using mathematical concepts. You’ll encounter questions related to arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. You’ll need to interpret data, apply mathematical principles, and solve problems efficiently.
- Analytical Writing: Here, you’ll demonstrate your critical thinking and writing skills by composing essays. You’ll need to articulate complex ideas clearly, develop arguments logically, and support your claims with evidence. This section evaluates your ability to write persuasively and analytically.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/_144763924-5bfc230cc9e77c0051c07a37.jpg)
2. A Brief History of the GRE
The GRE’s origins trace back to 1936, born from the collaboration of four universities and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Initially designed to assess aptitude for graduate-level studies, the University of Wisconsin became the first public institution to embrace the GRE in 1938.
In 1947, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) assumed responsibility for overseeing GRE testing, marking a pivotal moment in the exam’s evolution. Initially, the GRE comprised verbal and quantitative sections, later incorporating an analytics and logic component. However, after 2002, the analytical writing assessment replaced this section, reflecting a shift in emphasis.
Throughout its history, the GRE has undergone several transformations. In 2007, new question formats were introduced, including fill-in-the-blank questions in the math section, while 2008 brought stylistic revisions to reading comprehension questions.
The most significant overhaul occurred in 2011, ushering in a new design characterized by the current 130 to 170 scoring scale, the elimination of specific question types, and computer-adaptive testing adjustments based on sections rather than individual questions.
Despite its widespread adoption, the GRE has faced scrutiny, with some universities opting to waive the requirement. Critics argue that the exam is inherently biased and fails to accurately predict graduate student success or subsequent employment in academia.
In response to evolving needs, ETS unveiled plans in 2023 to shorten the GRE, reducing its duration from four hours to under two hours. This streamlined format entails the removal or condensation of sections such as the argument essay and experimental (unscored) section, as well as adjustments to the number of questions in the quantitative and verbal sections.
3. How is the GRE Scored?
The GRE has three main sections with two scoring methods:
- Verbal Reasoning: Scores range from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, assessing reading comprehension and analytical skills.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Scores also range from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, measuring problem-solving abilities in math.
- Analytical Writing: Each essay is scored from 0 to 6, in 0.5-point increments, then averaged for the final score, evaluating critical thinking and writing.
Your total GRE score combines Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning, ranging from 260 to 340. The Analytical Writing score is reported separately.
4. How Do Admissions Use the GRE General Test?
Graduate and business schools use the GRE General Test to evaluate applicants. Some may also require GRE Subject Tests in specific fields like physics, psychology, or mathematics.
4.1 Business School Admissions
Business schools often prefer the GMAT but accept GRE scores as equivalent. The GRE includes a writing section, while the GMAT math section is generally seen as more challenging. Top business schools in the U.S. accept the GRE for MBA programs.
4.1.1 Average GRE Scores for Top Business Schools (2023)
Here’s a snapshot of average GRE scores for incoming students at top business schools in 2023:
| Ranking | Business School | Average GRE Verbal | Average GRE Quant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanford University | 164 | 164 |
| 2 | University of Chicago (Booth) | 162 | 163 |
| 3 | University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) | 162 | 162 |
| 4 | Harvard Business School | 163 | 163 |
| 5 | Northwestern University (Kellogg) | 163 | 163 |
| 6 | MIT (Sloan) | N/A | N/A |
| 7 | Columbia University | N/A | N/A |
| 8 | University of California at Berkeley (Haas) | 161 | 163 |
| 9 | Dartmouth University (Tuck) | 161 | 161 |
| 10 | Yale University | 164 | 166 |
This table provides insights into the competitive landscape of business school admissions and the importance of strong GRE scores.
5. GRE Test Format and Timing
The GRE is a computer-based test, though a paper-based version may be available in areas with limited computer access. The computer-delivered GRE consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
The computer-delivered GRE includes the following sections:
- Analytical Writing: One section, 30 minutes to complete one essay.
- Verbal Reasoning: Two sections, 27 minutes each.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Two sections, 47 minutes each.
- Unscored Section: An unidentified unscored section that could be either Verbal Reasoning or Quantitative Reasoning.
- Research Section: An identified research section that will not count toward your score.
The total testing time is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes, excluding breaks and administrative tasks.
6. How To Register and Take the GRE?
You can take the GRE at official testing centers or at home. Each test is 1 hour and 58 minutes long, comprising writing, verbal, and quantitative sections.
While there’s no limit to how often you can take the GRE, you must wait 21 days between attempts, and you can’t take it more than five times in a calendar year.
Taking the exam multiple times can help improve your scores, increasing your chances of acceptance into your desired graduate programs. Unlike other standardized tests, you choose which scores to send to schools.
7. How Much Does the GRE Cost?
In the U.S., the GRE costs $220. This fee applies to most countries, except China ($231.30) and India (22,550 Indian rupees).
8. Signing Up and Preparing for the GRE
Register for the GRE on the ETS website. You’ll need a free ETS account to schedule your test date and location, registering at least two days beforehand. At-home testing is also an option. Pay with credit or debit card, PayPal, or AliPay+.
8.1 ETS Resources
The ETS website offers many free resources to help you prepare, including:
- Practice tests
- Math skills reviews with definitions and examples
- Instructional videos
8.2 Paid Materials
For additional practice, the ETS provides paid resources, such as:
- More practice tests
- Section-specific question packs (Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning)
- Online writing practice with essay scoring and feedback
9. How Long Is the GRE Test?
The total GRE testing time is 1 hour and 58 minutes. The Analytical Writing section lasts 30 minutes. The Verbal Reasoning section has two 27-minute segments, while the Quantitative Reasoning section has two 47-minute segments.
10. Can You Retake the GRE Exam?
Yes, you can retake the GRE to improve your score. There’s no strict limit, but you must wait 21 days between attempts and can take it a maximum of five times within a 12-month period.
11. Can I Send Only My Best GRE Score to Schools?
Yes, the ScoreSelect option lets you choose which scores to send to institutions, ensuring they only see your best performance.
12. Do All Schools Require GRE Scores?
No, not all schools require GRE scores for admission. Many institutions have started to drop this requirement.
13. GRE Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the purpose of the GRE? | The GRE is designed to assess a test taker’s readiness for graduate-level academic work, evaluating skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. |
| How is the GRE scored? | The Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130-170, in 1-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0-6, in half-point increments. |
| How long is the GRE? | The total testing time for the GRE is 1 hour and 58 minutes. |
| Can I retake the GRE? | Yes, you can retake the GRE with a waiting period of 21 days between attempts, up to five times within a 12-month period. |
| Can I choose which GRE scores to send to schools? | Yes, the ScoreSelect option allows you to send only your best scores to schools. |
| Do all graduate schools require the GRE? | No, many graduate schools are now offering waivers or have eliminated the GRE requirement altogether. |
| How should I prepare for the GRE? | ETS offers a variety of free and paid resources, including practice tests, skill reviews, and instructional videos. Many third-party test prep companies also offer courses and materials. |
| What is a good GRE score? | A “good” GRE score varies depending on the program and school you’re applying to. Research the average GRE scores of accepted students at your target programs to get a sense of what score you need to be competitive. |
| How is the GRE administered? | The GRE is primarily administered as a computer-based test. In areas with limited computer access, a paper-based test may be available. |
| What subjects are covered in the GRE Subject Tests? | As of 2024, only three subjects are offered: physics, psychology, and mathematics. The subjects offered have frequently changed over time. Many previously offered tests have been discontinued such as chemistry, English literature, and biology. |
| What skills does the Verbal Reasoning section assess? | The Verbal Reasoning section assesses your ability to understand and analyze written material, draw conclusions, identify key points, understand vocabulary in context, and analyze relationships between sentence components. |
| What math topics are covered in the Quantitative Reasoning section? | The Quantitative Reasoning section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. You’ll need to interpret data, apply mathematical principles, and solve problems efficiently. |
| What does the Analytical Writing section evaluate? | The Analytical Writing section evaluates your critical thinking and writing skills by requiring you to compose essays that articulate complex ideas clearly, develop arguments logically, and support claims with evidence. |
| How does the GRE compare to the GMAT? | The GRE and GMAT are both used for graduate school admissions, but the GMAT is more commonly preferred by business schools. The GRE includes a writing section, while the GMAT math section is generally considered more difficult. |
| What is the cost of the GRE? | In the U.S., the GRE costs $220. This fee applies to most countries, except China ($231.30) and India (22,550 Indian rupees). |
14. Key Terms Related to the GRE
Understanding these terms will help you navigate the GRE process and prepare effectively.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| GRE General Test | The standard GRE test used for admission to most graduate programs, assessing verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. |
| GRE Subject Tests | Tests that measure knowledge in specific fields of study, such as physics, psychology, and mathematics. |
| Verbal Reasoning | The section of the GRE that measures your ability to understand and analyze written material. |
| Quantitative Reasoning | The section of the GRE that measures your ability to solve problems using mathematical concepts. |
| Analytical Writing | The section of the GRE that measures your ability to think critically and write analytically. |
| ScoreSelect | The option that allows you to choose which GRE scores you send to institutions. |
| ETS | Educational Testing Service, the organization that develops and administers the GRE. |
| GMAT | Graduate Management Admission Test, another standardized test often used for admission to business schools. |
| MBA | Master of Business Administration, a graduate degree focused on business management. |
| Test Center | An official location where you can take the GRE. |
| At-Home Testing | Taking the GRE from the comfort of your own home, proctored online. |
| Unscored Section | A section of the GRE that does not count toward your final score, used for research purposes. |
| Research Section | A section of the GRE used for research purposes that does not count toward your final score. |
| Score Range | The range of possible scores on the GRE, which is 130-170 for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning and 0-6 for Analytical Writing. |
| Test Prep | Materials and courses designed to help you prepare for the GRE. |
| Registration | The process of signing up to take the GRE. |
| Testing Fees | The cost associated with taking the GRE. |
| Waivers | Financial assistance programs that can help cover the cost of the GRE. |
| Graduate School | A school that offers advanced academic degrees beyond the bachelor’s level. |
| Business School | A school that offers graduate degrees in business-related fields, such as MBA programs. |
| Standardized Test | A test administered and scored in a consistent manner to evaluate knowledge or skills. |
| Admissions Committee | A group of individuals responsible for reviewing applications to graduate programs. |
| Rolling Admissions | A system where applications are reviewed and decisions are made as they are received, rather than all at once after a deadline. |
| Application Deadline | The date by which you must submit your application to a graduate program. |
| Transcripts | Official records of your academic performance, typically required as part of a graduate school application. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Letters written by professors or other professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and potential. |
| Statement of Purpose | An essay outlining your academic and professional goals, reasons for pursuing graduate study, and qualifications for the program. |
15. The Bottom Line
The GRE is a key test for graduate and business school admissions. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, helping schools assess your readiness for advanced studies.
At WHAT.EDU.VN, we understand that preparing for the GRE can be daunting. We provide free resources and a platform to ask any questions you have, ensuring you have the support you need to succeed. Contact us at 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States, or via WhatsApp at +1 (206) 555-7890. Visit our website at WHAT.EDU.VN.
Ready to conquer the GRE and achieve your academic dreams? Ask your questions for free on what.edu.vn and let our community of experts guide you every step of the way. We’re here to help you succeed!
