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Master the GRE: Your Complete Guide to Success

Everything you need to know about the Graduate Record Examinations

What is GRE

The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools in the United States, Canada, and other English-speaking countries. Created and administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE aims to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills.

The GRE General Test is accepted by thousands of graduate and business schools worldwide. Many programs place equal emphasis on GRE scores and undergraduate GPA when making admissions decisions. The test is available at test centers worldwide and as a home test option in most locations. The computer-delivered GRE General Test takes about 3 hours 45 minutes to complete.

GRE Test Structure

The GRE General Test consists of three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. The Analytical Writing section comes first and requires you to write two essays. The Verbal Reasoning section measures your ability to analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information.

The Quantitative Reasoning section measures problem-solving ability using basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The test includes an unscored research section that may appear in any order after the Analytical Writing section. The computer-delivered GRE is section-level adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the second section of Verbal and Quantitative depends on your performance in the first section.

GRE Scoring System

The GRE uses a sophisticated scoring system where Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130-170 in 1-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. Your official score report will include these section scores along with percentile ranks showing how your scores compare with other test takers.

About 10-15 days after your test date, your official scores will be available in your ETS account and sent to the institutions you designated. GRE scores are valid for five years. Most graduate programs consider all sections of the GRE, but some may place more emphasis on certain sections depending on the field of study.

Test Dates & Locations

The computer-delivered GRE General Test is available year-round at Prometric test centers worldwide, typically offering multiple test dates each week. The paper-delivered test is offered up to three times a year in areas where computer-delivered testing is not available. You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period.

Test appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. You can register online, by phone, or by mail. The GRE is offered in more than 1,000 test centers in over 160 countries. The home version of the GRE is available in most locations except Mainland China and Iran. Test fees vary by country but typically range between $205-$255 USD.

GRE Preparation Tips

Effective GRE preparation typically requires 2-3 months of dedicated study. Start by taking a full-length practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Focus on building your vocabulary for the Verbal section and refreshing fundamental math concepts for the Quantitative section. For Analytical Writing, practice outlining and writing essays within the time limit.

Use official ETS preparation materials as they most closely resemble the actual test. Create a study schedule that balances all three sections of the test. Take several timed practice tests to build stamina and get comfortable with the computer interface. On test day, arrive early, bring valid identification, and remember that you can use the "mark and review" feature to return to difficult questions.

Where is the GRE Accepted?

The GRE is accepted by 1,000+ graduate and business schools worldwide

USA Flag

United States

Canada Flag

Canada

UK Flag

United Kingdom

Germany Flag

Germany

France Flag

France

Australia Flag

Australia

New Zealand Flag

New Zealand

Singapore Flag

Singapore

Netherlands Flag

Netherlands

Ireland Flag

Ireland

The GRE is also gaining acceptance in public universities across Europe where English-taught master's programs are popular.

Top Universities Accepting GRE Scores

Stanford University

Country: USA
Avg. GRE Requirement: 325+

University of California, Berkeley

Country: USA
Avg. GRE Requirement: 320+

University of Toronto

Country: Canada
Avg. GRE Requirement: 315+

University of Oxford

Country: UK
Avg. GRE Requirement: 320+

TU Munich

Country: Germany
Avg. GRE Requirement: 310+

University of Melbourne

Country: Australia
Avg. GRE Requirement: 315+

ETH Zurich

Country: Switzerland
Avg. GRE Requirement: 320+

NUS (National University of Singapore)

Country: Singapore
Avg. GRE Requirement: 320+

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GRE FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

Get answers to the most common questions about GRE preparation and testing

Is the GRE mandatory for MS or MBA abroad?
It depends on the university. Some programs have waived GRE requirements post-COVID, but top schools often prefer it.
Can I skip questions or come back later?
Yes, the GRE allows you to mark questions for review and return later within the section time.
How often can I take the GRE?
Up to 5 times a year, with a minimum of 21 days gap between attempts.
Can I cancel my GRE score?
Yes. You can cancel your score right after the test or within 60 days for a fee.
Can I use a calculator during the GRE?
Yes. An on-screen calculator is provided during the Quantitative sections.
How long is my GRE score valid?
GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the date of testing.
Does Vibedu offer university application help too?
Absolutely. We offer end-to-end support, from GRE prep to admission applications, SOP drafting, and even visa help.

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