All About GRE General Test

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools of Business and Law programs worldwide especially in the United States and other countries. It is designed to measure a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level work.

Key Features of the GRE

1. Shorter GRE: The test duration is 1 hour and 58 minutes in total.
2. Section Breakdown: The test includes three sections, 1. Analytical Writing, 2. Verbal Reasoning, and 3. Quantitative Reasoning sections.
3. Scoring: Scores are reported on a 130–170 scale for Verbal and Quantitative sections, and 0–6 scale for Analytical Writing.

Test Sections and Content

1. Analytical Writing:

   • Tasks: Analyze an Issue and Analyze an Argument.
   • Skills Assessed: Critical thinking and analytical writing skills.
   • Scoring: 0-6 in half-point increments.

2. Verbal Reasoning:

   • Tasks: Reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.
   • Skills Assessed: Ability to analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information.
   • Scoring: 130-170 in one-point increments.

3. Quantitative Reasoning:

   • Tasks: Problem-solving, data interpretation, and quantitative comparison.
   • Skills Assessed: Basic mathematical skills and understanding of elementary mathematical concepts.
   • Scoring: 130-170 in one-point increments.

Test Dates and Registration

• Test Availability: Offered year-round in most locations around the world.
• Registration: Can be done online, by phone, or by mail.
• Fees: Vary by country but typically around $205.

Preparation Tips

1. Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the test structure and types of questions.
2. Practice Regularly: Use practice tests to identify strengths and weaknesses.
3. Focus on Weak Areas: Allocate more study time to sections where you are less confident.
4. Use Official Prep Materials: Utilize resources from ETS, the makers of the GRE.

Important Facts

1. Score Validity: GRE scores are valid for five years.
2. Score Reporting: You can choose which scores to send to schools if you take the test more than once.
3. Accommodations: Available for test-takers with disabilities or health-related needs.

Test Day Essentials

1. Identification: Bring a valid, government-issued ID.
2. Test Center: Arrive early to the test center to complete check-in procedures.
3. Materials: You are not allowed to bring personal items into the testing room.

Post-Test

1. Receiving Scores: Scores are typically available online 10-15 days after the test date.
2. Score Reporting: You can send your scores to up to four graduate programs for free; additional reports require a fee.