The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools in the United States and other countries. Here are some key details about the GRE exam:
Purpose:
The GRE is designed to measure general academic readiness for graduate-level work. It assesses a candidate’s verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
Sections:
Analytical Writing: This section measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills, specifically the ability to articulate and support complex ideas clearly and effectively.
Tasks: “Analyze an Issue” and “Analyze an Argument”
Time: 30 minutes per task
Verbal Reasoning: This section measures the ability to analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information obtained from it, analyze relationships among component parts of sentences, and recognize relationships among words and concepts.
Question types: Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence
Time: Two 30-minute sections with 20 questions each
Quantitative Reasoning: This section measures problem-solving ability, focusing on basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
Question types: Quantitative Comparison, Multiple-choice questions, Numeric Entry questions
Time: Two 35-minute sections with 20 questions each
Unscored and Research Sections: In addition to the scored sections, the GRE may include an unscored section or a research section. The unscored section does not count toward the final score and can appear in any order after the Analytical Writing section. The research section, if present, is always at the end of the test and is also not scored.
Scoring:
Verbal Reasoning: Scores range from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.
Quantitative Reasoning: Scores range from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.
Analytical Writing: Scores range from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
Registration:
The GRE is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). Candidates can register online, by phone, or by mail.
Test Formats:
The GRE is available in two formats: computer-based and paper-based. The computer-based test is more common and available year-round at testing centers worldwide. The paper-based test is available in locations where the computer-based test is not offered.
Preparation:
There are various preparation resources available, including official GRE guides, online courses, practice tests, and study groups.
Use:
GRE scores are used by admissions or fellowship panels to supplement undergraduate records, recommendation letters, and other qualifications for graduate-level study.
The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test used primarily for admissions to graduate schools and business programs, particularly in the United States and other English-speaking countries. It’s administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is designed to assess critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills.
GRE Structure and Sections
The GRE consists of three main sections:
Analytical Writing:
Measures your ability to articulate and support complex ideas, construct arguments, and sustain a focused and coherent discussion.
This section includes two tasks: Analyze an Issue and Analyze an Argument, with 30 minutes allotted for each task.
Verbal Reasoning:
Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, and the ability to analyze and evaluate written material.
Includes two 30-minute sections, each with about 20 questions.
Quantitative Reasoning:
Assesses basic mathematical skills, understanding of quantitative information, and problem-solving ability.
Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
Includes two 35-minute sections, each with about 20 questions.
Scoring
Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning scores range from 130 to 170 (in 1-point increments).
Analytical Writing is scored from 0 to 6 (in half-point increments).
GRE Test Types
GRE General Test: Most commonly required for graduate school admissions.
GRE Subject Tests: Focus on specific subjects (e.g., Psychology, Mathematics, Physics) and may be required by certain programs.
GRE Test Format
The GRE is available in two formats:
Computer-based: Offered year-round at testing centers and at home.
Paper-based: Available in locations where computer-based testing isn’t available, on specific dates.
Registration and Fees
Registration is completed on the ETS website, and fees vary by location, generally around $205-$255.
Test takers can send scores to four schools for free; additional score reports come at an extra cost.
The GRE is essential for applicants looking to pursue master’s, MBA, or Ph.D. programs and is recognized worldwide for evaluating readiness for graduate-level work.