What is the GRE Exam?
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test that is part of the admissions test required by graduate schools in the United States and Canada and most graduate and business schools in other leading study destinations worldwide. It serves as an entrance exam for postgraduate (PG) level studies in universities around the world. Admissions authorities use the GRE to assess applicants’ preparedness for their master’s studies.
The test evaluates critical thinking, analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning abilities. A good GRE score reflects a strong academic background. The GRE is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), a non-profit organization.
Prospective applicants can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within a continuous 12-month period.
Why Take the GRE Exam?
Many universities and colleges worldwide require GRE scores as part of the application process. A strong GRE score can enhance your chances of securing scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid, making higher education more affordable.
The GRE is widely accepted at numerous graduate and business schools, with its importance ranging from a mere formality to a critical factor in admissions. Your GRE scores provide admissions committees with a standardized measure of your academic abilities, helping them assess your readiness for advanced studies.
GRE Official Website
For more details, visit the GRE Official Website.
GRE Fees for Test Takers in India
| Test Type | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| GRE – General Test | ₹22,550 |
| GRE – Subject Test | ₹14,500 |
GRE Score Validity and Score Range
GRE Score Validity: 5 Years
Maximum GRE Score: 340 (170 each in Quantitative & Verbal Reasoning, and 6 in Analytical Writing)
GRE Score Breakdown
- Verbal Reasoning: 130 – 170
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130 – 170
- Analytical Writing: 0 – 6
What is the GRE General Test?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test designed to measure an individual’s aptitude for abstract thinking in the areas of analytical writing, mathematics, and vocabulary. It is commonly used by graduate schools in the United States and Canada to assess an applicant’s eligibility for admission.
GRE Subject Tests
In addition to the General Test, ETS also offers the GRE Subject Tests, which assess a student’s proficiency in a specific academic discipline. These tests are intended for students who have an undergraduate major or extensive background in one of the following subjects:
- Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Literature in English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
The GRE Subject Test yields a total score on a 200 to 900 scale, in 10-point increments.
Difference Between GRE General and GRE Subject Tests
While the GRE General Test is primarily used for admissions to graduate programs, the GRE Subject Tests help graduate programs tailor their curricula to suit students’ strengths and weaknesses.
New GRE Format (2024)
The latest GRE Exam Pattern (2024) includes three sections:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
The new format has reduced the total exam duration from 4 hours to just 1 hour and 58 minutes. Additionally, the total number of questions has been reduced from 100 to 54. Features like mark and review and an on-screen calculator have also been introduced.
Does GRE Have Negative Marking?
No, there is no negative marking in the GRE exam. However, the final score depends on the total number of correct answers and the difficulty level of the sections.
More Information
For official details, visit the GRE Official Website.
Register for the GRE General Test
Note: All quoted fees are subject to change without prior notice.