About GRE - Graduate Record Examination

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GRE - Graduate Record Examination

About the GRE

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is administered by Education Testing Service (ETS) and is primarily a multiple-choice test that graduate schools use for admission of students into their graduate programs. ETS administers GRE programs on behalf of the Graduate Record Examinations Board and the Council of Graduate Schools.

The GRE Program also assists students in their transition to graduate education through a variety of services and publications. The Graduate Record Examination Program also offers 12 Subject Tests, each of which measures achievements in specific fields. The tests offered include:

The General Test: It measures abilities in verbal, quantitative and  analytical fields.


The Writing Assessment: This measures proficiency in critical reasoning and analytical writing. Starting October 1, 2002, a new section on Analytical Writing ability has been introduced in the General Test. The Writing Assessment test will be discontinued after December 2002 in light of that.

The Subject Tests:

These measure achievement in specific fields of study.

Because of the high correlation between high GRE scores and success in graduate school, many schools require that the applicants take the GRE General Test. (They may also require the applicant to take the appropriate GRE Subject Test)

What is a CAT and how does it work?

A CAT is a computer-adaptive test, whose software calculates your score based on the number of questions you answer correctly, the difficulty of the questions you answer, and the number of questions you complete. When you take the GRE CAT, you'll begin each section with a medium-level question and a score of 500. If you answer the question correctly, the computer will raise your score and give you a harder question. If you answer the question incorrectly, your score will decrease and you'll be given an easier question. The process repeats for each question in the section, to arrive at your final score for that section.

How is the GRE scored?

Each of the three sections is scored on a scale of 200 to 800. The average scores for the GRE are about 470 for Verbal and 570 for Quantitative.

How important are my GRE scores?

Schools vary tremendously in the weights they place on the different factors in the admission process, so be sure to contact the specific schools to which you are applying in order to determine their unique requirements. Some programs weight GRE scores very heavily, and/or have a minimum score for applicants, while other programs consider GRE scores more of a formality. It is important to note that your GRE scores are a major factor in determining your eligibility for financial aid.

Can I cancel my scores?

Yes. You can cancel your scores immediately after you take the GRE. This is the only time you can cancel your scores. Unfortunately, you must make the decision to cancel at the testing center before you see your scores. In addition, the fact that you cancelled your scores will be noted on your official GRE score report.

How do I pick a test date?

First find out the application deadlines for the graduate schools to which you are applying, then work backwards from your earliest deadline. Build some extra time into your planning process for unexpected delays because you can only take the GRE once per calendar month. Keep in mind that it can take as long as four weeks for your official scores to arrive at your designated schools. The GRE is offered at testing centers almost every day. Call your local center for details and to book your test. While in theory you could sign up for the GRE with only two days' notice, don't depend upon this luxury. Call at least one month prior to your desired test date.

What fees are associated with the GRE?

Fee for the GRE exam  :  $140

What are the GRE Subject Tests and Writing Assessment Test (WAT)?

The GRE Subject Tests are intended to measure your knowledge of specific subject matter. Subject Tests are available in eight disciplines: biochemistry, cell and molar biology; biology; chemistry; computer science; literature in English; mathematics; physics; and psychology. These tests are given in paper-and-pencil format three times per year, in November, December, and April.

The WAT is a computer-based test, consisting of two analytical writing tasks: a 45-minute essay in which you present your perspective on a particular issue; and a 30-minute essay in which you analyze an argument.