The GRE, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), is a standardized exam widely recognized by universities worldwide. It is a multiple-choice and computer-based exam that is an important admission requirement to graduate schools, business schools or law schools globally. It serves as a comprehensive evaluation tool, assessing candidates’ analytical writing, verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning skills. Designed to measure readiness for graduate-level studies, the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a crucial element of the admissions process for various graduate programs.
Exam Sections and Syllabus
The GRE consists of three main sections that evaluate different skill sets. The exam duration is about 1 hour and 58 minutes. Five sub-sections are included in the exam:
| Main Sections | Number of Questions | Allotted Time | Score Scale |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 Sections) | Section 1: 12 questionsSection 2: 15 questions | Section 1: 18 minutesSection 2: 23 minutes | 130–170 (in 1-point increments) |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 Sections) | Section 1: 12 questionsSection 2: 15 questions | Section 1: 21 minutesSection 2: 26 minutes | 130–170 (in 1-point increments) |
| Analytical Writing (1 Section) | One “Analyze an Issue” task | 30 minutes | 0–6 (in half-point increments) |
Verbal Reasoning
This section evaluates the ability to analyze and evaluate written material, understand relationships among words and concepts, and synthesize information. Reading comprehension, sentence equivalence and text completion are included in the questions.
Reading Comprehension:
- Passages range from social sciences and humanities to scientific topics.
- Expect to analyze the main ideas, supporting details, author’s tone and purpose and logical reasoning within the text.
- Question types include main idea, detail support, speculation, tone, vocabulary in context, and rhetorical purpose.
Text Completion:
- Incomplete sentences with blanks require choosing the most appropriate word or phrase.
- Tests vocabulary, understanding of context and ability to infer meaning from surrounding sentences.
- Question types involve synonym identification, antonym identification and filling in specific word categories.
Sentence Equivalence:
- Choose two answer choices that best capture the meaning of a given sentence.
- Demands strong vocabulary, understanding of sentence structure and critical thinking skills.
- Question types include identifying equivalent meanings, paraphrasing and identifying inconsistencies in meaning.
Quantitative Reasoning
This section measures problem-solving abilities and quantitative reasoning skills. It covers topics in arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data analysis. Questions may range from multiple-choice to quantitative comparison and data interpretation.
Arithmetic:
- Covers the fundamental operations of multiplication, division, subtraction and addition.
- Includes concepts like percentages, ratios, proportions, and exponents.
- Question types involve direct calculations, application of formulas and word problems.
Algebra:
- Covers linear equations, inequalities, functions, exponents and quadratic equations.
- Requires solid understanding of algebraic concepts and ability to manipulate equations.
- Question types involve solving equations and inequalities, interpreting graphs and word problems.
Geometry:
- Assesses knowledge of shapes, angles, lines, area and volume calculations.
- May involve geometric theorems like the Pythagorean theorem.
- Question types involve identifying shapes, calculating area and volume and solving geometric problems.
Data Analysis:
- Tests the ability to interpret data presented in graphs, charts and tables.
- Includes basic statistical concepts like mean, median, mode and range.
- Question types involve analyzing trends, drawing conclusions from data and solving probability problems.
Analytical Writing
In this section, candidates are required to analyze an issue and present an argument. It assesses the ability to articulate complex ideas, support viewpoints and demonstrate critical thinking and analytical writing skills.
Issue Essay:
- Provide carefully created and supported responses to an argument in the prompt that you evaluate and analyze.
- Requires strong analytical skills, ability to identify assumptions and persuasive writing ability.
Argument Essay:
- Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of an argument presented in a prompt, suggesting improvements and identifying logical errors.
- Demands critical thinking, ability to assess evidence and clear, concise writing.
Eligibility Criteria
The GRE Exam 2024 has no specific eligibility criteria based on age or academic background. Open to individuals worldwide, it is commonly taken by those aspiring to pursue graduate education. There is no age limit and candidates can take the exam multiple times. To register, individuals must follow the guidelines on the official GRE website, presenting valid identification on the exam day.
Exam Fees 2024
The fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expressed in US dollars below:
| Location | Fee |
| China | $231.30 |
| Other countries of the world | $220 |
Special Handling Requests
| Special Handling Request | Fee |
| Rescheduling fee (China) | $53.90 |
| Rescheduling fee (Other countries of the world) | $50 |
| Changing your exam centre | $50 |
For India
The application fees in India who want to register online for the exam can be found below. Visit the ETS India website for exam takers in India.
| GRE Exam | Fees (INR) |
| GRE General Exam | ₹ 22,550 |
| GRE Subject Exam | ₹ 14,500 |
| Special Handling Request | Fees |
| Rescheduling fee | ₹ 5,000 |
| Changing exam centre | ₹ 5,000 |
Benefits of GRE
The GRE, while sometimes viewed as a daunting hurdle, offers numerous benefits for aspiring graduate students. Here are a few key benefits of taking the GRE:
- Global Recognition: The GRE is widely accepted by thousands of graduate and business schools across the globe, opening doors to prestigious institutions and diverse programs. A strong GRE score is valuable for applications to top graduate programs worldwide, including those in the US, Canada and Europe.
- Boosted Scholarship Opportunities: A high GRE score can significantly increase your chances of securing scholarships and financial aid. Competitive scores often attract merit-based scholarships from universities, easing the financial burden of graduate education.
- Skill Development: Preparing for the GRE hones valuable skills that go beyond the exam itself. You’ll strengthen your critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning abilities, all of which are essential for success in graduate studies and various professional careers.
- Career Flexibility and Advancement: While primarily used for graduate school admissions, the GRE can benefit certain job applications in fields like data analysis, finance, and research, where strong analytical and quantitative skills are valued. A good GRE score can set you apart from other candidates and open doors to new career opportunities.
Top Countries Accepting the GRE Exam Score
The GRE is widely accepted by universities and graduate programs in over 90 countries worldwide. Here are examples of countries along with some well-known institutions that accept GRE scores:
United States: Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Canada: McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Toronto
United Kingdom: University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Oxford
Australia: Australian National University, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney
Germany: Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, University of Heidelberg
China: Tsinghua University, Peking University, Fudan University
India: Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Delhi University
Singapore: Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), National University of Singapore (NUS)
New Zealand: University of Otago, University of Canterbury, University of Auckland
France: HEC Paris, Sciences Po, Ecole Normale Supérieure (ENS)
Japan: The University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University
This list is not exhaustive and many other countries and universities worldwide accept GRE scores. These examples showcase the global acceptance of GRE scores in diverse educational landscapes. Keep in mind that acceptance may vary by program and level within each institution.
FAQs
- Can I take the GRE at home?
Ans – Yes! The GRE at Home option allows you to take the exam from a secure, proctored environment in your comfort zone. However, there might be technical requirements and eligibility checks involved.
- How can I prepare for the GRE effectively?
Ans – Effective GRE preparation involves a mix of study materials, practice tests, and time management. Consider using official GRE materials and prep courses while dedicating consistent study time.
- How long are GRE scores valid?
Ans – GRE scores are valid for up to five years from the exam date. It’s essential to consider the application deadlines of the institutions you are applying to and plan your exam accordingly.
- Can I use a calculator during the GRE?
Ans – Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided for the Quantitative Reasoning section. Personal calculators are not allowed.
