Skills Assessed in the GRE
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a key stepping stone for students aiming to pursue graduate-level education abroad. It tests your ability to analyze information, solve complex problems, and communicate skills essential for success in advanced studies.
With scores accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, the GRE opens doors to programs in science, technology, business, and humanities, making it a critical part of your journey to higher education.
What Is the GRE?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination), conducted by ETS, is a standardized test recognized by universities worldwide. It evaluates your critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, helping institutions assess your readiness for graduate-level studies.
Purpose of the GRE
The GRE plays a crucial role in shaping your graduate education journey. It is widely used for admissions to programs like MS, PhD, and MBA, helps determine eligibility for scholarships and assistantships, and strengthens applications for competitive universities and programs by showcasing your analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills.
Who Should Take the GRE?
The GRE is recommended for students aiming to pursue graduate studies abroad in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. It is particularly useful for those applying to programs in Engineering, Sciences, Business, Social Sciences, or Data Science, and for anyone looking to strengthen their academic profile to gain admission into top universities.
GRE Exam Pattern & Sections
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test widely used by graduate schools and business programs around the world to evaluate candidates’ readiness for advanced academic work. It is divided into three main sections, each carefully designed to assess distinct skills that are essential for success in graduate-level studies.
Analytical Writing (AWA) – Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, support arguments with evidence, and analyze issues critically.
Verbal Reasoning – Tests your reading comprehension, vocabulary, and ability to evaluate and analyze written material.
Quantitative Reasoning – Assesses problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and the ability to interpret and analyze quantitative information.
Total Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including breaks.
This structure ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, preparing you for the challenges of graduate studies.
GRE Scoring System
The GRE scoring system evaluates your performance across its three main sections, providing a standardized measure of your skills in analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. Each section is scored separately, allowing admissions committees to assess your strengths and readiness for graduate-level study, while the combined scores offer an overall picture of your academic abilities and problem-solving potential.
● Analytical Writing (AWA): Scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments, reflecting your ability to articulate complex ideas and construct coherent arguments.
● Verbal Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, measuring your reading comprehension, critical analysis, and vocabulary skills.
● Quantitative Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, assessing your problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and data interpretation abilities.
Total Score: The combined Verbal and Quantitative scores range from 260 to 340.
Score Validity: GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
Percentiles: Percentile scores show how your performance compares with other test-takers worldwide. For example, a 90th percentile in Verbal means you scored higher than 90% of candidates.
This scoring system helps universities assess your strengths and readiness for graduate-level programs.
GRE Test Dates & Registration Process
Test Dates
The GRE General Test is offered year-round at authorized test centers worldwide, allowing you to choose a date that fits your schedule. Computer-based testing is available in most locations, while paper-based tests are offered in areas where computer testing isn’t available.
Registration Process
Create an ETS Account: Sign up on the official GRE website to access registration, scheduling, and score services.
Choose Test Date & Center: Select a date and test center that fit your schedule and location preferences.
Pay the Exam Fee: The GRE General Test fee is USD 220 (may vary by country), payable online during registration.
Receive Confirmation: After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all test details and instructions.
Prepare & Take the Exam: Study using official materials and practice tests, then arrive on test day with a valid photo ID to complete the exam.
The flexible scheduling and online registration make it easy for students worldwide to plan and take the GRE according to their academic timelines.
Minimum GRE Scores Required by Top Countries & Universities
GRE score requirements differ by country, university, and program. Competitive programs usually expect higher scores, but a typical guideline is: AWA 3.5–5.0, Verbal 150–165, Quantitative 155–170.
Top Countries
● USA: Most graduate programs expect a combined Verbal + Quantitative score of 300–320 or higher.
● Canada: Competitive programs generally require 300+, with top universities often preferring 315+.
● UK & Europe: GRE is sometimes optional, but strong scores of 310+ can enhance admission prospects.
● Australia: Certain programs accept GRE scores, typically expecting 300+ for consideration.
Top Universities
● MIT, Stanford, Harvard: Typically require 320+ for competitive STEM and business programs.
● University of Toronto, McGill: Prefer 315+ for engineering and science programs.
● Imperial College London, ETH Zurich: Optional but strong scores (310+) strengthen applications.
Note: These are indicative scores. Requirements vary by program and year, so always check the specific university’s official admission page.
GRE Preparation Strategy & Study Plan
Preparing for the GRE is more than just memorizing formulas or vocabulary; it requires a well-structured, strategic approach that ensures you are fully prepared across all sections. The GRE evaluates not only your knowledge but also your analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and capacity to communicate ideas clearly.
Assess Your Strengths & Weaknesses
Begin your GRE preparation by taking a full-length diagnostic test. This initial assessment helps you pinpoint which sections or question types require the most attention, whether it’s Verbal, Quantitative, or Analytical Writing. Once you know your strengths and weaknesses, create a targeted study plan: dedicate extra time to weaker areas to build proficiency, while continuing to practice your stronger sections to maintain performance. Regularly revisiting diagnostic results ensures your preparation stays focused, efficient, and balanced, ultimately boosting your overall score.
Create a Study Schedule
Daily Practice: Set aside 2–3 hours each day for focused study. Break sessions into smaller blocks one for Verbal, one for Quant, and one for Analytical Writing to ensure consistent improvement across all sections. Include timed drills, practice questions, and review of mistakes in each session.
Weekly Mock Tests: Take at least one full-length practice test every week under real exam conditions. This helps build stamina, improves time management, and provides a benchmark to track your progress. After each test, thoroughly review incorrect answers to identify patterns and refine strategies.
Balanced Study: Allocate study time according to your strengths and weaknesses. If Verbal is weaker, spend slightly more time on vocabulary and reading comprehension; if Quant needs work, focus on problem-solving and data interpretation. Maintain regular practice for Analytical Writing to strengthen essay structure, clarity, and argumentation skills.
Use Quality Study Materials
Official GRE Guide by ETS: The most reliable resource, as it is created by the test makers. It includes real GRE questions, full-length practice tests, and detailed explanations. Essential for understanding the test format and question types.
Prep Books for Quant & Verbal: Comprehensive study guides focused on each section. For Quant, books cover algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis with practice problems. For Verbal, they focus on vocabulary, reading comprehension, and sentence completion strategies. Popular options include Manhattan Prep, Kaplan, and Barron’s.
Online Practice Tests and Question Banks: Platforms like Magoosh, PowerPrep, and Manhattan Prep offer timed practice tests, adaptive question banks, and performance analytics. These simulate real test conditions and help track progress, identify weak areas, and improve time management.
Build Key Skills
● Analytical Writing (AWA): Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas, support arguments with evidence, and critically analyze issues. It includes two tasks: Issue Essay and Argument Essay. Each essay is scored on a 0–6 scale.
● Verbal Reasoning: Tests reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary through question types like text completion, sentence equivalence, and reading comprehension. Each of the two Verbal sections is scored from 130–170.
● Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses problem-solving and mathematical reasoning skills. Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis with question types like quantitative comparison, problem-solving, and data interpretation. Each of the two Quant sections is scored 130–170.
Review & Revise
Regular review is a vital part of GRE preparation. After every practice test or set of questions, thoroughly analyze mistakes to understand their cause—whether it’s a conceptual misunderstanding, a calculation slip, or misreading the question. Revisit important formulas, mathematical concepts, and problem-solving strategies to reinforce your understanding. For Verbal, review challenging vocabulary, reading comprehension errors, and sentence completion strategies. Continuously refining your approach and revising weak areas helps solidify knowledge, reduces repeated errors, and steadily improves accuracy and confidence for the exam.
Stay Consistent & Positive
Maintaining a regular study routine is essential for steady GRE progress. Dedicate time each day to focused preparation, but balance it with short breaks to avoid burnout. Track your performance through practice tests and quizzes to see tangible improvement, which helps sustain motivation. Keep a positive mindset, view challenges as opportunities to learn, and celebrate small victories along the way. Consistency, persistence, and a constructive attitude together strengthen both your skills and confidence for test day.
FAQs GRE
1) What is the structure of the GRE General Test?
The GRE General Test has three main sections:
Analytical Writing: 2 essays × 30 min each, scored 0–6.
Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections × 30 min, 20 questions each, scored 130–170.
Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections × 35 min, 20 questions each, scored 130–170.
Optional unscored or research section may appear. Total duration ≈ 3 hours 45 minutes.
2) How is the Analytical Writing section scored?
The Analytical Writing (AWA) section is scored on a 0–6 scale, in half-point increments. Each of the two tasks Issue and Argument essays is graded separately by a human rater and a computer program (ETS’s e-rater). The scores are then averaged to give the final AWA score
3) What is the difference between the GRE General and GRE Subject Tests?
The GRE General Test measures overall skills in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, assessing your readiness for graduate-level study across any discipline.
The GRE Subject Tests focus on specific academic fields, such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. They evaluate in-depth knowledge and understanding of that particular subject.
4) How much time should I dedicate daily for GRE preparation?
For effective GRE preparation, aim to study 2–3 hours daily on a consistent basis.
Verbal: 30–60 minutes for reading, vocabulary, and practice questions.
Quantitative: 45–60 minutes for concepts, problem-solving, and drills.
Analytical Writing: 20–30 minutes for essay practice and review.
5) Are there any official GRE prep materials available?
Yes, ETS provides official GRE prep materials, including:
● The Official Guide to GRE General Test – comprehensive book with real questions and strategies.
● POWERPREP® Practice Tests – free full-length online practice tests.
● Official Verbal & Quantitative Practice Questions – section-specific question banks.
● ScoreItNow! Online Writing Practice – practice essays with scored feedback.
● GRE Math Review & Conventions – PDFs to refresh key math concepts.
These resources are highly recommended as they reflect the actual exam format and question style.
6) Can I cancel my GRE scores if I am unhappy with them?
You have the option to cancel immediately after completing the test, before leaving the test center.
If you cancel later, you can request score cancellation within 60 days of your test date through your ETS account.
Once canceled, scores cannot be reinstated.
7) How long does it take to receive official GRE scores?
Official GRE scores are usually available 10–15 days after the test. Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing scores can be accessed online via your ETS account, and reports are sent to the universities you selected.
8) Can international students take the GRE online at home?
General Test at Home option offered by ETS.
● It is identical in content, format, and scoring to the test taken at a test center.
● Requires a quiet, private room, a computer with a camera, microphone, and reliable internet.
● Online proctoring ensures test security
9) What are the best strategies to improve Verbal Reasoning scores?
To boost Verbal Reasoning scores, focus on building vocabulary, reading diverse texts, and practicing question strategies like text completion and sentence equivalence. Use elimination techniques, practice under timed conditions, and review mistakes to improve accuracy and comprehension.
10) How can I improve my Quantitative Reasoning speed?
To improve Quantitative Reasoning speed, master core concepts, memorize key formulas, practice timed questions, focus on weak areas, use a skip-and-return strategy, and review mistakes to avoid repeating them.
11) Does GRE require any specific eligibility criteria?
● Anyone can take the GRE General Test, regardless of age, nationality, or educational background.
● There are no restrictions on academic qualifications or work experience.
● Some GRE Subject Tests may be more suitable for students with a background in that particular field, but they are not mandatory.
Skills Assessed in the GRE
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a key stepping stone for students aiming to pursue graduate-level education abroad. It tests your ability to analyze information, solve complex problems, and communicate skills essential for success in advanced studies.
With scores accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, the GRE opens doors to programs in science, technology, business, and humanities, making it a critical part of your journey to higher education.
What Is the GRE?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination), conducted by ETS, is a standardized test recognized by universities worldwide. It evaluates your critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, helping institutions assess your readiness for graduate-level studies.
Purpose of the GRE
The GRE plays a crucial role in shaping your graduate education journey. It is widely used for admissions to programs like MS, PhD, and MBA, helps determine eligibility for scholarships and assistantships, and strengthens applications for competitive universities and programs by showcasing your analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills.
Who Should Take the GRE?
The GRE is recommended for students aiming to pursue graduate studies abroad in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. It is particularly useful for those applying to programs in Engineering, Sciences, Business, Social Sciences, or Data Science, and for anyone looking to strengthen their academic profile to gain admission into top universities.
GRE Exam Pattern & Sections
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test widely used by graduate schools and business programs around the world to evaluate candidates’ readiness for advanced academic work. It is divided into three main sections, each carefully designed to assess distinct skills that are essential for success in graduate-level studies.
Analytical Writing (AWA) – Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, support arguments with evidence, and analyze issues critically.
Verbal Reasoning – Tests your reading comprehension, vocabulary, and ability to evaluate and analyze written material.
Quantitative Reasoning – Assesses problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and the ability to interpret and analyze quantitative information.
Total Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including breaks.
This structure ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, preparing you for the challenges of graduate studies.
GRE Scoring System
The GRE scoring system evaluates your performance across its three main sections, providing a standardized measure of your skills in analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. Each section is scored separately, allowing admissions committees to assess your strengths and readiness for graduate-level study, while the combined scores offer an overall picture of your academic abilities and problem-solving potential.
● Analytical Writing (AWA): Scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments, reflecting your ability to articulate complex ideas and construct coherent arguments.
● Verbal Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, measuring your reading comprehension, critical analysis, and vocabulary skills.
● Quantitative Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, assessing your problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and data interpretation abilities.
Total Score: The combined Verbal and Quantitative scores range from 260 to 340.
Score Validity: GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
Percentiles: Percentile scores show how your performance compares with other test-takers worldwide. For example, a 90th percentile in Verbal means you scored higher than 90% of candidates.
This scoring system helps universities assess your strengths and readiness for graduate-level programs.
GRE Test Dates & Registration Process
Test Dates
The GRE General Test is offered year-round at authorized test centers worldwide, allowing you to choose a date that fits your schedule. Computer-based testing is available in most locations, while paper-based tests are offered in areas where computer testing isn’t available.
Registration Process
Create an ETS Account: Sign up on the official GRE website to access registration, scheduling, and score services.
Choose Test Date & Center: Select a date and test center that fit your schedule and location preferences.
Pay the Exam Fee: The GRE General Test fee is USD 220 (may vary by country), payable online during registration.
Receive Confirmation: After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all test details and instructions.
Prepare & Take the Exam: Study using official materials and practice tests, then arrive on test day with a valid photo ID to complete the exam.
The flexible scheduling and online registration make it easy for students worldwide to plan and take the GRE according to their academic timelines.
Minimum GRE Scores Required by Top Countries & Universities
GRE score requirements differ by country, university, and program. Competitive programs usually expect higher scores, but a typical guideline is: AWA 3.5–5.0, Verbal 150–165, Quantitative 155–170.
Top Countries
● USA: Most graduate programs expect a combined Verbal + Quantitative score of 300–320 or higher.
● Canada: Competitive programs generally require 300+, with top universities often preferring 315+.
● UK & Europe: GRE is sometimes optional, but strong scores of 310+ can enhance admission prospects.
● Australia: Certain programs accept GRE scores, typically expecting 300+ for consideration.
Top Universities
● MIT, Stanford, Harvard: Typically require 320+ for competitive STEM and business programs.
● University of Toronto, McGill: Prefer 315+ for engineering and science programs.
● Imperial College London, ETH Zurich: Optional but strong scores (310+) strengthen applications.
Note: These are indicative scores. Requirements vary by program and year, so always check the specific university’s official admission page.
GRE Preparation Strategy & Study Plan
Preparing for the GRE is more than just memorizing formulas or vocabulary; it requires a well-structured, strategic approach that ensures you are fully prepared across all sections. The GRE evaluates not only your knowledge but also your analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and capacity to communicate ideas clearly.
Assess Your Strengths & Weaknesses
Begin your GRE preparation by taking a full-length diagnostic test. This initial assessment helps you pinpoint which sections or question types require the most attention, whether it’s Verbal, Quantitative, or Analytical Writing. Once you know your strengths and weaknesses, create a targeted study plan: dedicate extra time to weaker areas to build proficiency, while continuing to practice your stronger sections to maintain performance. Regularly revisiting diagnostic results ensures your preparation stays focused, efficient, and balanced, ultimately boosting your overall score.
Create a Study Schedule
Daily Practice: Set aside 2–3 hours each day for focused study. Break sessions into smaller blocks one for Verbal, one for Quant, and one for Analytical Writing to ensure consistent improvement across all sections. Include timed drills, practice questions, and review of mistakes in each session.
Weekly Mock Tests: Take at least one full-length practice test every week under real exam conditions. This helps build stamina, improves time management, and provides a benchmark to track your progress. After each test, thoroughly review incorrect answers to identify patterns and refine strategies.
Balanced Study: Allocate study time according to your strengths and weaknesses. If Verbal is weaker, spend slightly more time on vocabulary and reading comprehension; if Quant needs work, focus on problem-solving and data interpretation. Maintain regular practice for Analytical Writing to strengthen essay structure, clarity, and argumentation skills.
Use Quality Study Materials
Official GRE Guide by ETS: The most reliable resource, as it is created by the test makers. It includes real GRE questions, full-length practice tests, and detailed explanations. Essential for understanding the test format and question types.
Prep Books for Quant & Verbal: Comprehensive study guides focused on each section. For Quant, books cover algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis with practice problems. For Verbal, they focus on vocabulary, reading comprehension, and sentence completion strategies. Popular options include Manhattan Prep, Kaplan, and Barron’s.
Online Practice Tests and Question Banks: Platforms like Magoosh, PowerPrep, and Manhattan Prep offer timed practice tests, adaptive question banks, and performance analytics. These simulate real test conditions and help track progress, identify weak areas, and improve time management.
Build Key Skills
● Analytical Writing (AWA): Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas, support arguments with evidence, and critically analyze issues. It includes two tasks: Issue Essay and Argument Essay. Each essay is scored on a 0–6 scale.
● Verbal Reasoning: Tests reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary through question types like text completion, sentence equivalence, and reading comprehension. Each of the two Verbal sections is scored from 130–170.
● Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses problem-solving and mathematical reasoning skills. Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis with question types like quantitative comparison, problem-solving, and data interpretation. Each of the two Quant sections is scored 130–170.
Review & Revise
Regular review is a vital part of GRE preparation. After every practice test or set of questions, thoroughly analyze mistakes to understand their cause—whether it’s a conceptual misunderstanding, a calculation slip, or misreading the question. Revisit important formulas, mathematical concepts, and problem-solving strategies to reinforce your understanding. For Verbal, review challenging vocabulary, reading comprehension errors, and sentence completion strategies. Continuously refining your approach and revising weak areas helps solidify knowledge, reduces repeated errors, and steadily improves accuracy and confidence for the exam.
FAQs about Duolingo
1) What is the Duolingo English Test?
1) What is the Duolingo English Test?
2) Who should take the Duolingo English Test?
2) Who should take the Duolingo English Test?
3) How long is the test?
3) How long is the test?
4) What is the test format?
4) What is the test format?
5) How is the test scored?
5) How is the test scored?
6) How can I register for the test?
6) How can I register for the test?
7) How much does the test cost?
7) How much does the test cost?
8) When will I get my results?
8) When will I get my results?
9) Is the Duolingo test accepted by universities?
9) Is the Duolingo test accepted by universities?
10) Can I retake the test?
10) Can I retake the test?
11) What preparation resources are available?
11) What preparation resources are available?
12) What are the technical requirements for taking the test?
12) What are the technical requirements for taking the test?
Review & Revise
Regular review is a vital part of GRE preparation. After every practice test or set of questions, thoroughly analyze mistakes to understand their cause—whether it’s a conceptual misunderstanding, a calculation slip, or misreading the question. Revisit important formulas, mathematical concepts, and problem-solving strategies to reinforce your understanding. For Verbal, review challenging vocabulary, reading comprehension errors, and sentence completion strategies. Continuously refining your approach and revising weak areas helps solidify knowledge, reduces repeated errors, and steadily improves accuracy and confidence for the exam.
FAQs about Duolingo
1) What is the Duolingo English Test?
2) Who should take the Duolingo English Test?
3) How long is the test?
4) What is the test format?
5) How is the test scored?
6) How can I register for the test?
7) How much does the test cost?
8) When will I get my results?
9) Is the Duolingo test accepted by universities?
10) Can I retake the test?
11) What preparation resources are available?
12) What are the technical requirements for taking the test?
Skills Assessed in the GRE
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a key stepping stone for students aiming to pursue graduate-level education abroad. It tests your ability to analyze information, solve complex problems, and communicate skills essential for success in advanced studies.
With scores accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, the GRE opens doors to programs in science, technology, business, and humanities, making it a critical part of your journey to higher education.
What Is the GRE?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination), conducted by ETS, is a standardized test recognized by universities worldwide. It evaluates your critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, helping institutions assess your readiness for graduate-level studies.
Purpose of the GRE
The GRE plays a crucial role in shaping your graduate education journey. It is widely used for admissions to programs like MS, PhD, and MBA, helps determine eligibility for scholarships and assistantships, and strengthens applications for competitive universities and programs by showcasing your analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills.
Who Should Take the GRE?
The GRE is recommended for students aiming to pursue graduate studies abroad in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. It is particularly useful for those applying to programs in Engineering, Sciences, Business, Social Sciences, or Data Science, and for anyone looking to strengthen their academic profile to gain admission into top universities.
GRE Exam Pattern & Sections
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test widely used by graduate schools and business programs around the world to evaluate candidates’ readiness for advanced academic work. It is divided into three main sections, each carefully designed to assess distinct skills that are essential for success in graduate-level studies.
Analytical Writing (AWA) – Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, support arguments with evidence, and analyze issues critically.
Verbal Reasoning – Tests your reading comprehension, vocabulary, and ability to evaluate and analyze written material.
Quantitative Reasoning – Assesses problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and the ability to interpret and analyze quantitative information.
Total Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including breaks.
This structure ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, preparing you for the challenges of graduate studies.
GRE Scoring System
The GRE scoring system evaluates your performance across its three main sections, providing a standardized measure of your skills in analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. Each section is scored separately, allowing admissions committees to assess your strengths and readiness for graduate-level study, while the combined scores offer an overall picture of your academic abilities and problem-solving potential.
● Analytical Writing (AWA): Scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments, reflecting your ability to articulate complex ideas and construct coherent arguments.
● Verbal Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, measuring your reading comprehension, critical analysis, and vocabulary skills.
● Quantitative Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments, assessing your problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and data interpretation abilities.
Total Score: The combined Verbal and Quantitative scores range from 260 to 340.
Score Validity: GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
Percentiles: Percentile scores show how your performance compares with other test-takers worldwide. For example, a 90th percentile in Verbal means you scored higher than 90% of candidates.
This scoring system helps universities assess your strengths and readiness for graduate-level programs.
GRE Test Dates & Registration Process
Test Dates
The GRE General Test is offered year-round at authorized test centers worldwide, allowing you to choose a date that fits your schedule. Computer-based testing is available in most locations, while paper-based tests are offered in areas where computer testing isn’t available.
Registration Process
Create an ETS Account: Sign up on the official GRE website to access registration, scheduling, and score services.
Choose Test Date & Center: Select a date and test center that fit your schedule and location preferences.
Pay the Exam Fee: The GRE General Test fee is USD 220 (may vary by country), payable online during registration.
Receive Confirmation: After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all test details and instructions.
Prepare & Take the Exam: Study using official materials and practice tests, then arrive on test day with a valid photo ID to complete the exam.
The flexible scheduling and online registration make it easy for students worldwide to plan and take the GRE according to their academic timelines.
Minimum GRE Scores Required by Top Countries & Universities
GRE score requirements differ by country, university, and program. Competitive programs usually expect higher scores, but a typical guideline is: AWA 3.5–5.0, Verbal 150–165, Quantitative 155–170.
Top Countries
● USA: Most graduate programs expect a combined Verbal + Quantitative score of 300–320 or higher.
● Canada: Competitive programs generally require 300+, with top universities often preferring 315+.
● UK & Europe: GRE is sometimes optional, but strong scores of 310+ can enhance admission prospects.
● Australia: Certain programs accept GRE scores, typically expecting 300+ for consideration.
Top Universities
● MIT, Stanford, Harvard: Typically require 320+ for competitive STEM and business programs.
● University of Toronto, McGill: Prefer 315+ for engineering and science programs.
● Imperial College London, ETH Zurich: Optional but strong scores (310+) strengthen applications.
Note: These are indicative scores. Requirements vary by program and year, so always check the specific university’s official admission page.
GRE Preparation Strategy & Study Plan
Preparing for the GRE is more than just memorizing formulas or vocabulary; it requires a well-structured, strategic approach that ensures you are fully prepared across all sections. The GRE evaluates not only your knowledge but also your analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and capacity to communicate ideas clearly.
Assess Your Strengths & Weaknesses
Begin your GRE preparation by taking a full-length diagnostic test. This initial assessment helps you pinpoint which sections or question types require the most attention, whether it’s Verbal, Quantitative, or Analytical Writing. Once you know your strengths and weaknesses, create a targeted study plan: dedicate extra time to weaker areas to build proficiency, while continuing to practice your stronger sections to maintain performance. Regularly revisiting diagnostic results ensures your preparation stays focused, efficient, and balanced, ultimately boosting your overall score.
Create a Study Schedule
Daily Practice: Set aside 2–3 hours each day for focused study. Break sessions into smaller blocks one for Verbal, one for Quant, and one for Analytical Writing to ensure consistent improvement across all sections. Include timed drills, practice questions, and review of mistakes in each session.
Weekly Mock Tests: Take at least one full-length practice test every week under real exam conditions. This helps build stamina, improves time management, and provides a benchmark to track your progress. After each test, thoroughly review incorrect answers to identify patterns and refine strategies.
Balanced Study: Allocate study time according to your strengths and weaknesses. If Verbal is weaker, spend slightly more time on vocabulary and reading comprehension; if Quant needs work, focus on problem-solving and data interpretation. Maintain regular practice for Analytical Writing to strengthen essay structure, clarity, and argumentation skills.
Use Quality Study Materials
Official GRE Guide by ETS: The most reliable resource, as it is created by the test makers. It includes real GRE questions, full-length practice tests, and detailed explanations. Essential for understanding the test format and question types.
Prep Books for Quant & Verbal: Comprehensive study guides focused on each section. For Quant, books cover algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis with practice problems. For Verbal, they focus on vocabulary, reading comprehension, and sentence completion strategies. Popular options include Manhattan Prep, Kaplan, and Barron’s.
Online Practice Tests and Question Banks: Platforms like Magoosh, PowerPrep, and Manhattan Prep offer timed practice tests, adaptive question banks, and performance analytics. These simulate real test conditions and help track progress, identify weak areas, and improve time management.
Build Key Skills
● Analytical Writing (AWA): Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas, support arguments with evidence, and critically analyze issues. It includes two tasks: Issue Essay and Argument Essay. Each essay is scored on a 0–6 scale.
● Verbal Reasoning: Tests reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary through question types like text completion, sentence equivalence, and reading comprehension. Each of the two Verbal sections is scored from 130–170.
● Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses problem-solving and mathematical reasoning skills. Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis with question types like quantitative comparison, problem-solving, and data interpretation. Each of the two Quant sections is scored 130–170.