GRE Test Prep

Graduate Record Examination

Overview of the GRE Exam

The GRE is designed to assess readiness for graduate-level study and to predict potential academic achievement in such settings. It comprises three core sections:

• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses vocabulary proficiency and reading comprehension.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Measures problem-solving skills and understanding of foundational mathematics (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis).
• Analytical Writing: Evaluates the ability to construct well-reasoned essays with proper grammar and mechanics.

Significance of GRE Scores in Graduate Admissions

Graduate admission committees utilize GRE scores as a standardized metric to compare applicants, supplementing subjective elements such as personal statements and recommendations. During the selection process, committees often consider the most pertinent section—Quantitative or Verbal—relevant to the field of study. For STEM fields, Quantitative scores are typically emphasized, whereas, for humanities, Verbal scores carry greater weight.

The influence of GRE scores varies across programs. Some institutions set explicit minimums or report average scores, while others de-emphasize the GRE in favor of other factors like recommendations or writing samples.

Predictive Value of the GRE

Research on the GRE’s validity as a predictor of graduate school success has yielded mixed results. While some studies identify strong correlations between high GRE scores and graduate GPA, others suggest only limited or inconsistent predictive power. Notably, concerns have been raised regarding the test’s capacity to forecast the success of individuals from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.

Determining Whether to Take the GRE

It is recommended to take the GRE if:

• Any of your prospective programs require GRE scores.
• Programs strongly recommend submitting GRE scores.
• You wish to be considered for merit-based financial awards.
• You intend to apply to graduate school within five years (as GRE scores remain valid for this period).
• You aim to compensate for weaknesses elsewhere in your application.

It is suggested to forego the GRE if:

• None of your target programs require or recommend it.
• You are uncertain about pursuing graduate studies.

Conclusion

In summary, the GRE serves as a key admissions criterion for numerous graduate and business programs. Its purpose is to gauge academic preparedness and offer a standardized basis for comparison. However, its importance varies across disciplines and institutions, and ongoing debate surrounds its predictive validity. To determine whether to take the GRE, carefully review the admissions policies of your chosen programs, assess your need for funding opportunities, and consider your long-term educational objectives.

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Structure of the GRE

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is administered exclusively by ETS. Test takers have the option to complete the assessment at one of approximately 9,000 testing centers or remotely from their home. There is a fee for the GRE, with financial support available for eligible students.

The GRE was updated in September 2023, and the following guide reflects the requirements and structure of the current version. The test consists of three subtests, all timed, spanning just under two hours in total. Each section has its own time allocation and must be finished before proceeding to the next. The GRE utilizes a section adaptive format, where performance on the initial sections of Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning determines the difficulty of subsequent sections.

For example, a strong performance on the first twelve Quantitative Reasoning questions results in more challenging items in the second section, while lower performance leads to less difficult questions. Within each section, test-takers can review and edit answers, as well as mark questions for later review. Partial credit is not awarded, so it is required to answer each question as completely as possible.

Analytical Writing

The first section is always Analytical Writing, which underwent significant changes in September 2023. Previously comprising two tasks—creating an argument and analyzing an argument—the updated section now contains a single prompt, Analyze an Issue, to be completed in 30 minutes. The prompt typically presents an opinion on an issue, accompanied by guidelines for response. Specialized knowledge of the topic is not necessary; however, responses are evaluated based on the ability to construct a clear, complex argument with appropriate reasoning and examples. Basic word processing tools are provided, but spell check and grammar check functions are not available.

Example Analytical Writing Prompts

• The surest indicator of a great nation is represented not by the achievements of its rulers, artists or scientists, but by the general welfare of its people.
• Governments should offer college and university education free of charge to all students.
• In any situation, progress requires discussion among people who have contrasting points of view.
• Nations should require all of their students to study the same national curriculum until they enter college.
• The best way for a society to prepare its young people for leadership in government, industry or other fields is by instilling in them a sense of cooperation, not competition.

Verbal Reasoning

The Verbal Reasoning section assesses the ability to:

• Analyze and comprehend written material,
• Understand relationships between words and concepts,
• Demonstrate knowledge of English sentence construction and vocabulary.

This section consists of two parts:

• Verbal Reasoning Section 1 has 12 questions (18 minutes), and
• Verbal Reasoning Section 2 has 15 questions (23 minutes).

Question types include:

• Reading Comprehension: Questions refer to academic and non-academic passages, requiring conclusions, detail identification, or logical deductions.
• Text Completion: Questions provide sentences with blanks to be filled using multiple-choice options. Each blank has only one correct answer.

• Sentence Equivalence: Test-takers select words that give two sentences the same meaning from several choices.

Example Verbal Reasoning Questions

Passage Example:

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in sustainable practices within the business world. Many companies are adopting environmentally friendly policies, not only to comply with regulations but also to appeal to a more environmentally conscious consumer base. These practices include reducing carbon emissions, implementing recycling programs and sourcing materials responsibly. However, critics argue that some companies engage in “greenwashing”, where they exaggerate or falsely claim to be environmentally friendly for marketing purposes without making substantial changes to their operations.

Question: According to the passage, why do some companies adopt environmentally friendly policies?

1. a) To increase profits
2. b) To comply with regulations
3. c) To appeal to a more environmentally conscious consumer base
4. d) To engage in greenwashing

Correct answer: c).

Text Completion Example:

Although the scientist’s theories initially faced strong opposition, they eventually gained widespread acceptance due to their reasoning and the evidence supporting them.

1. a) flawed; ambiguous
2. b) persuasive; substantial
3. c) incoherent; minimal
4. d) logical; compelling
5. e) weak; inconclusive
6. f) clear; irrelevant

Correct answers: b) persuasive; substantial.

Sentence Equivalence Example:

Select two words that fit the blank grammatically and produce the same overall meaning.

The novel’s protagonist is so that readers often struggle to determine whether she is sincere or merely pretending.

1. a) genuine
2. b) ambiguous
3. c) deceptive
4. d) inscrutable
5. e) transparent
6. f) enigmatic

Correct answers: d) inscrutable; f) enigmatic.

Quantitative Reasoning

The Quantitative Reasoning portion evaluates the use of mathematical and analytical skills, focusing on high school level math. The emphasis is on problem-solving rather than computation alone. It is divided into two sections: Section 1 with 12 questions (21 minutes), and Section 2 with 15 questions (26 minutes). Assessed topics include:

• Arithmetic: prime numbers, divisibility, estimation, percentages, decimals, sequences, ratio
• Algebra: factoring expressions, solving equations, graph analysis
• Geometry: lines, shapes, area, perimeter, volume, angle measurement
• Data Analysis: mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, probability, normal distribution

Question types comprise quantitative comparison, multiple choice (single or multiple answers), and numeric entry. Data interpretation sets may group multiple questions around a single table or chart.

Example Quantitative Reasoning Questions

In a box of colored marbles, there are 20 marbles: 6 blue, 4 green, 2 yellow, 4 red, and 4 orange. If a marble is chosen at random, what is the probability that the marble will be neither red nor orange?

1. a) 0.25
2. b) 0.40
3. c) 0.60
4. d) 0.75

Correct answer: c).

Quantity A: The area of a circle with radius 6. Quantity B: The area of a square with side length 10.

1. a) Quantity A is greater
2. b) Quantity B is greater
3. c) The two quantities are equal
4. d) The relationship cannot be determined

Correct answer: a).

If the average (arithmetic mean) of four numbers is 12, what is the sum of the four numbers?

1. a) 12
2. b) 24
3. c) 36
4. d) 48

Correct answer: d).

Scoring on the GRE

Score reports are issued zero to 15 days after the test and are accessible through the test-taker’s ETS account. Recipients can be designated prior to scheduling the test date, and they receive the score report upon release. The report shows both the raw scores and percentiles for context.

Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are each scored from 130 to 170 (one-point increments), and Analytical Writing from zero to six (half-point increments). Full answers are necessary for scoring; no partial credit is given.

What Is a Good Score on the GRE?

Average scores are approximately 150 for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning, and 3.5 for Analytical Writing. Specific institutional requirements may vary, so target scores should be aligned with admission criteria. High scores (at or above the 75th to 80th percentile) are generally advantageous. The GRE may be retaken once every 21 days, up to five times within a rolling 12-month period. Scores remain reportable for five years.

Top Tips for Success on the GRE

Preparation:

Familiarity with the GRE, including its structure and content areas, supports effective preparation. Review reliable resources to identify strengths and weaknesses and plan study efforts accordingly. Beginning preparation early facilitates organized study.

Practice Tests:

Utilizing practice tests helps to highlight strengths and areas needing improvement. Results can inform a revision plan and aid in becoming accustomed to exam timing and pressure.

Revision:

A wide array of preparatory material is available, including sample questions, study tips, and mentoring schemes from ETS. The tested content corresponds with high school curricula.

Read the Questions Thoroughly:

Careful reading of each question helps ensure accurate responses and guards against misinterpreting questions.

Take Your Time:

Managing time thoughtfully throughout the test allows for careful consideration without rushing, minimizing avoidable errors.

Answer Every Question:

All questions should be answered fully, as partial responses earn no credit. The GRE interface provides the option to mark and revisit questions within each section.