The GRE measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, and is designed to assess a student's readiness for graduate-level academic work. Here are some key details about the GRE:
Test Sections:
The GRE consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
a. Verbal Reasoning:
This section assesses a student's ability to analyze and evaluate written material, synthesize information obtained from it, and use language appropriately to express ideas.
b. Quantitative Reasoning:
This section assesses a student's ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information and solve problems using mathematical concepts.
c. Analytical Writing:
This section assesses a student's ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support ideas with relevant evidence, and analyze and evaluate arguments.
Test Format:
The GRE is offered in both computer-based and paper-based formats. The computer-based test is the most common format and is administered year-round at testing centers. The paper-based test is only offered in areas where computer-based testing is not available.
Test Fees:
The cost of taking the GRE varies by location and testing format. As of 2021, the computer-based GRE costs $205 in most locations, while the paper-based test costs $150.
Test Preparation:
Many students prepare for the GRE by studying independently, using study guides and online resources. Other students choose to take courses or work with tutors to prepare for the test.
Study Materials:
GRE study materials include official GRE test prep books and online resources, as well as third-party study guides and practice tests.
Courses and Tutors:
Students can enroll in GRE prep courses or work with tutors to receive personalized instruction and guidance
Test Scores:
GRE scores are valid for up to five years after the test date. Most graduate programs require applicants to submit GRE scores as part of the admissions process. The scores are used by admissions committees to evaluate a student's academic readiness for graduate-level work.
Score Scale:
The Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130-170 in one-point increments, and the Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments.
Score Percentiles:
GRE scores are reported as percentiles, which indicate how a student's score compares to the scores of other test-takers. Percentiles range from 1 to 99, with higher percentiles indicating better performance.
Score Reporting:
After taking the GRE, students can choose to send their scores to up to four graduate programs for free. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.
Score Reports:
GRE score reports include the student's name, date of birth, gender, mailing address, and email address, as well as the student's scores and percentile ranks.
Institution Codes:
Students must provide the institution codes for the graduate programs to which they are applying in order to have their scores sent directly to those programs.
Test Accommodations:
Students with disabilities or health-related needs can request accommodations for the GRE, such as extra testing time or a separate testing room. Requests for accommodations must be submitted to the GRE program well in advance of the test date.To request accommodations, students must submit documentation of their disability or health-related need to the GRE program. The program will review the documentation and notify the student of the approved accommodations.
In conclusion, the GRE is an important part of the graduate school admissions process for many programs. Students should carefully prepare for the test using study guides and other resources, and consider working with a tutor or taking a prep course. The scores are used by admissions committees to evaluate a student's academic readiness for graduate-level work, so it's important to take the test seriously and perform well