GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): Your Complete Guide to Graduate Success

The GRE is a standardized examination that is recognized around the world and has been developed and administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), who offers assessments of verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing. Graduate programs will use GRE scores as one measure of how prepared a candidate is for academic study at the graduate level.

While there are other subject-specific exams, the GRE is an exam of general academic ability and can be representative of different graduate programs.

Most of the organizations that will accept GRE scores include:

• Thousands of graduate programs around the world, nearly all in the US or Canada.
• Universities in Europe, Singapore, or Australia, including some of the top universities.
• Some business schools in place of GMAT.
• Professional schools that offer some masters or doctoral programs.

If you are a prospective international student, GRE scores can bolster your application materials considerably.

The GRE is comprised of three sections:

• Analytical Writing (60 minutes, 2 tasks):

Measures the capacity to communicate articulately and effectively complex ideas.

• Verbal Reasoning (30 minutes, 2 sections):

Measures reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical reasoning.

• Quantitative Reasoning (35 minutes, 2 sections):

Measures mathematics matriculation and problem solving.

There may also be an unscored or research section, although students will not know which is which while taking the exam.

•  Verbal Reasoning: 130-170
•  Quantitative Reasoning: 130-170
• Analytical Writing: 0-6 (in half point increments)

Typically, most reputable universities will consider candidates with GRE scores in the range of 310-330, while competitive programs will require even higher scores.

The GRE has very light eligibility requirements:

• Age: There is no specific mandate for age limit.
• Education: You must have completed an undergraduate or be in your last year of graduating.
• Attempts: You are permitted to take the GRE up to 5 times in a 12-month period with 21 days between attempts.

Due to this flexibility, students that are studying from different disciplines can also opt to take the GRE for graduate school consideration.

• International Recognition: GRE is accepted by thousands of graduate schools all over the world.
• Widest Range/Perspective: GRE is utilized in all fields of study including academic disciplines like engineering, social and natural sciences and psychology.
• Graduate Level Career Perspective: There may be opportunities to open avenues to conduct research and pursue a career internationally based on your graduate studies.
• Order without a Timetable: GRE is not tied down to a specific timetable as it can be taken 365 days a year at many test centers or tested online.

The difference between GRE and GMAT: The GMAT test is meant for students who will be pursuing business-related programs, whereas the GRE test can be taken by many other graduate students who will apply to other fields of study.

The difference between GRE and TOEFL/IELTS: The GRE test measures academic abilities, whereas the TOEFL/IELTS test English proficiency.

Ultimately, it really depends on what degree programs and schools you are looking to apply to.

1. Become Familiar with the Test Format

Know that there are different types of questions and time structure for each section of the GRE exam.

2. Create a study plan

It is a good idea to begin your study plan 3-6 months prior to when you are planning to take the examination.

3. Reinforce Vocabulary

The verbal section of the GRE exam uses advanced vocabulary, practicing vocabulary on a regular basis will be helpful.

4. Tailor Math Preparation

To prepare for the Quantitative reasoning section, review the foundation of mathematics: Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics.

5. Take Practice Tests

Completing practice tests will build your confidence and time management skills.

6. Use Support Professionally

Many students will reprimand or use abroad educational consultants for exam prep and university options based on GRE scores.

• Time Management: Finding time to study the GRE while balancing academic or job responsibilities.
• Test Anxiety: Performance often suffers under pressure, without adequate practice.
• Competitive: Top programs want members with high scores that have strong overall applications.

Structured and professional support will help you gain accomplishment in these functional challenges.

At My Study Offers, we offer more than just GRE test prep. Here is how we can assist you:

 Personalized GRE Advice

We can help you understand what scores would be good to target, what your potential options for study might be and develop a study strategy for the GRE that suits you.

 Total Study Abroad Support

We provide university selection assistance, application support, visa assistance, and we make sure that your GRE scores can be put to as much use as possible in admissions.

The GRE is not simply an exam, it is a pathway to fulfilling your academic and career dreams. By understanding how the test is structured and prepared for it strategically, you are able to understand more fully how to take advantage of the GRE and essentially position yourself to successfully achieve your goals.

A good GRE score is a way of enhancing admission prospects for your program while also showcasing to graduate admissions committees that you are prepared for an advanced study within a global academic context.

1. What is the length of time that the GRE score is considered valid?

Your GRE score is valid for a period of five years from the date you have taken the test.

2. Can I take the GRE again if I am unhappy with my score?

Yes, you are permitted to take the GRE (General Test) five times within a twelve-month period, with at least 21 calendar days between each attempt.

3. Does every university require the GRE?

There is variance from university to university as to which tests may or may not be required. Many universities will have their own specific GRE requirement_for example, some may even have a GRE waiving option or state GRE testing is optional while other universities may simply state it is a requirement.

4. Is the GRE given in a computer format or a paper format?

The majority of students take the GRE in a computer format, although there is a paper test in areas where computer testing is not available.

5. What is a good GRE score?

A competitive multi-section score would be a score of 310+, however, good or competitive is based on your specific program that has a GRE requirement.

6. How much does the GRE cost?

The approximate simulated cost of the GRE General Test is USD 220, but specific fees will vary by country.