GRE (Graduate Record Examination) A critical exam for anyone applying to grad, business, or law schools. Whether you’re looking at engineering, social sciences, or an MBA, the GRE can be a major stepping stone to achieving your dreams. Here’s everything you need to know about the exam, its structure, why it’s important, and more!
What is the GRE?
The GRE is a standardized test designed to evaluate the academic readiness of students for graduate programs. Whether you’re fresh out of college or a working professional, the GRE helps universities gauge your critical thinking, analytical, and reasoning skills.
The GRE is used globally by universities to assess applicants. Unlike subject-specific exams, the GRE is broad, testing a wide range of academic skills that are necessary for advanced study.
Why Take the GRE?
- Broad Acceptance: The GRE is accepted by thousands of graduate, business, and law schools worldwide, making it versatile.
- Opportunity for Scholarships: High GRE scores can sometimes help students qualify for scholarships and financial aid.
- Flexibility: The GRE is tailored for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals looking to advance their careers.
- Personal Growth: Prepping for the GRE improves your analytical thinking, which can benefit you in both academic and professional settings.
GRE Syllabus Overview
The GRE consists of three key sections:
- Analytical Writing: You’ll have to write two essays—one analyzing an issue and the other critiquing an argument. This section is designed to test how clearly and logically you express ideas.
- Verbal Reasoning: This section assesses reading comprehension, vocabulary, and your ability to analyze relationships between concepts and words. It’s all about understanding written material from various fields like literature, social sciences, and natural sciences.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Don’t worry, it’s not advanced calculus! The math section covers high school-level topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It’s all about your ability to solve problems using mathematical models.
Exam Dates
The GRE is available year-round, meaning there’s no set annual date like other exams. You can choose your preferred date and time when you register, but it’s important to plan early to make sure you get your desired slot. You can take the test up to five times a year, with a 21-day gap between each attempt.
Who Can Take the GRE?
Anyone looking to apply for graduate, business, or law school programs can take the GRE. It’s open to students across all disciplines, and there’s no set educational background required to register.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate looking to continue your studies or a working professional wanting to take the next step in your career, the GRE offers a gateway to numerous academic opportunities.
How to Prepare?
ETS, the official GRE testing organization, offers a variety of preparation resources such as practice tests, study guides, and videos. Start by familiarizing yourself with the exam format and practicing regularly.
- Official Study Guides: ETS provides official prep books that closely match the format of the actual GRE.
- Online Prep Resources: You can use the ETS website to access free practice tests and instructional videos that guide you through the test structure and question types.
- Private Tutoring: If you’re looking for extra support, there are plenty of tutoring options that focus on specific areas you want to improve, be it math or verbal reasoning.
FAQs for GRE
1. Who can give the GRE Exam ?
Anyone can take the GRE. ETS has specified no age limit or minimum qualification to take the GRE. In total honesty, there will be a range of eligibility criteria set by the universities that accept GRE scores.
2 What are the fees for GRE ?
The GRE exam fee in India is priced at INR 22550 and for International students it is $ 220 except for China. For China Student it is $231.30.
3 Can I reschedule the GRE Exam ?
Yes, ETS allows you to reschedule your GRE exam.
4. How Much Time Do I Need to Prepare for the GRE Exam ?
Depending on an individual student’s schedule and time dedication, GRE prep can take anywhere from 2-6 months. You can opt for GRE preparation online or training in GRE coaching centers. For more personalized insights on your GRE prep, get in touch with our counsellor. Book a free expert session now!
5, What does the AWA Section on the GRE Test you on ?
GRE’s Analytical Writing section doesn’t assess specific content knowledge rather, it tests your analytical writing skills through different tasks. These writing tasks test your ability to articulate and evaluate complex ideas while simultaneously judging your ability to sustain a focused and coherent discussion.
