GRE or Graduate Record Examination is a standardized test that is conducted by Educational Test Service (ETS) that is affiliated to the Graduate Record Examination Board. The test aims to measure Quantitative, Analytical, Verbal and Writing Skills of the student. The Test is administered mainly as Computer Based. It is offered as Paper Based in areas where computer based test is not available.
Who takes the GRE
Prospective graduate applicants who wish to pursue Master’s / Specialized Master’s or Doctoral Education take the GRE Test. The GRE scores are also essential as an admissions requirement for those who wish to pursue Graduation in the United States. Applicants from varying educational and cultural backgrounds take the GRE General Test.
Test Structure
GRE has 3 test sections – Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning & Analytical Writing .
Verbal Reasoning
It has 2 sections of 30 minutes each. There are 20 questions per section.
Verbal Reasoning measures the test taker’s ability to –
- Analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information obtained from it
- Analyze relationships among component parts of sentences
- Recognize relationships between words and concepts
Quantitative Reasoning
It has 2 sections of 35 minutes each. There are 20 questions per section.
Quantitative Reasoning measures the test taker’s ability to –
- Understand basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis
- Reason quantitatively
- Solve problems in a quantitative setting
Analytical Writing
It has one section with two separate writing tasks. Each task is of 30 minutes. Analytical Writing measures the test taker’s ability to –
- Articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively
- Examine claims and accompanying evidence
- Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples
- Sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion
- Control the elements of standard written English
Unscored Section
It has one section which maybe Math or Verbal. The time allotted for Math is 35 minutes & for Verbal is 30 minutes.
Where is it conducted
In most regions, the GRE is offered as a computer based exam offered year round at Prometric testing centres. In areas where computer based test is not available, the GRE is offered as a Paper – delivered Test upto 3 times a year in October, November & February. You can register for the test by logging on to https://www.ets.org/gre/ A valid passport is mandatory for taking the GRE test.
GRE Score Reporting
Verbal Reasoning
Score reported on a 130 – 170 score scale, in one – point increments
Quantitative Reasoning
Score reported on a 130 – 170 score scale, in one – point increments
Analytical Writing
Score reported on a 0 – 6 score scale, in half – point increments
As on date, there is no Negative marking for GRE.
GRE Score Validity
For individuals testing on or after July 1, 2016, GRE® test scores are valid for five years after your test administration date.
For individuals who tested between August 1, 2011, and June 30, 2016, GRE test scores are valid for five years after the testing year in which you tested.
GRE scores earned in August 2011 are reportable until June 30, 2017.
