The GRE General Test measures critical thinking skills needed across various fields.
Many grad school applicants juggle busy schedules and might think cramming for the GRE is enough. But experts caution that scoring well on this exam takes serious preparation.
The GMAT Is Changing: What to Know
Dennis Yim, director of live online courses at Kaplan (a test prep company), says students often assume they can breeze through the GRE with minimal study. “A lot of undergrads tell us, ‘I usually study a weekend for a test and I’m good to go.’ But this test isn’t like that,” he explains. “It’s not just about memorizing vocabulary or math formulas from high school. You need to apply that knowledge and think like a problem-solver under pressure.”
Yim advises test-takers to take timed practice exams and review their performance thoroughly. “You have to build confidence,” he says. “We joke that it’s ‘crisis prevention’—being able to perform at your best when the clock is ticking.”
Starting September 22, 2023, the GRE will get a shorter, streamlined format. Here’s what you need to know.
GRE General Test FAQ
- What is the GRE General Test?
- How is it structured?
- What are GRE Subject Tests?
- How does the General Test differ from Subject Tests?
- At-home GRE: Pros and cons vs. test centers
- Which grad programs accept GRE scores?
- GRE scoring breakdown
- Test costs and frequency
- When should you take it?
- What’s the computer-adaptive format like?
- How much do scores matter?
- How long should you prep?
- What prep options exist?
- GRE vs. GMAT vs. LSAT
- Tips to boost your score
What Is the GRE General Test?
The GRE General Test, run by ETS (Educational Testing Service), evaluates overall readiness for grad school. Some programs also require a GRE Subject Test in fields like physics, psychology, or math.
Andrew Selepak, a University of Florida program coordinator, compares the GRE to the SAT—it tests math, reading, and writing skills.
Test Structure (Current vs. New)
Current version (3 hours, 45 minutes):
- Analytical Writing (60 min, 2 essays)
- Quantitative Reasoning (70 min, 40 questions)
- Verbal Reasoning (60 min, 40 questions)
- Plus one unscored section and a 10-minute break.
New version (1 hour, 58 minutes, starting Sept. 2023):
- Analytical Writing (30 min, 1 essay)
- Quantitative (47 min, 27 questions)
- Verbal (41 min, 27 questions)
- No unscored section or break.
Though shorter, each question carries more weight.
GRE Subject Tests
These assess mastery in specific fields (e.g., math, physics, psychology). Ryan Starr of Manhattan Prep notes they’re rarely required but can help students prove expertise in weaker areas.
Test breakdowns:
- Math: 50% calculus, 25% algebra/number theory, 25% other undergrad topics.
- Physics: Covers optics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, etc.
- Psychology: Tests biological, cognitive, social, and clinical psychology.
General Test vs. Subject Tests
Yim explains: The General Test measures broad critical thinking, while Subject Tests dive deep into one field. Starr adds that Subject Tests are self-paced, unlike the timed General Test.
At-Home GRE
ETS introduced this option during COVID and still offers it. The at-home test mirrors the in-person version but is proctored online.
Tips for at-home testers:
- Use a wired internet connection (Tyler Johnson, Manhattan Prep).
- Secure a quiet, private space (no interruptions allowed).
- Have supplies ready: whiteboard, markers (Yim).
At-Home vs. Test Center
Starr says both formats yield similar scores. At-home is convenient for remote testers, but distractions or tech issues can arise. Amanda Medders Paldao (Tri-Ed Tutoring) notes some perform better in a test center’s “adrenaline rush” environment, while others prefer home’s comfort.
Kaplan’s Russell Schaffer confirms: 98% of schools view both formats equally.
Which Programs Accept GRE Scores?
Most master’s, Ph.D., and professional programs do, including many business and law schools (over 100 ABA-accredited law schools now accept GRE over LSAT).
Scoring
- General Test: Verbal/Quantitative (130–170), Writing (0–6).
- Subject Tests: 200–990 (Psychology includes subscores).
Yim stresses: Aim above your program’s average score—just meeting it won’t help you stand out.
Cost & Scheduling
- General Test: $220 (higher in Australia/China).
- Subject Tests: $150.
- Offered year-round (general test); subject tests transition to computer-based in Sept. 2023.
When to Take It?
Schedule it months before applications to allow retakes if needed.
Computer-Adaptive Format
The test adjusts section difficulty based on performance. Alberto Acereda (ETS) warns: Don’t waste time on hard questions—mark and return to them later.
Do Scores Matter?
Priyam Shah (IvyWise) says they’re one factor among many (grades, recommendations, etc.). Selepak adds they help compare applicants with different undergrad backgrounds.
Prep Time & Strategies
- General Test: 2–4 months of study (Shah).
- Subject Tests: Varies by student’s familiarity with the field.
Prep options:
- Free/paid ETS materials (practice tests, guides).
- Formal courses (Kaplan, TargetTestPrep) for structured learning.
GRE vs. GMAT vs. LSAT
- GRE: Broad, accepted by many programs.
- GMAT: Business-focused, no calculator.
- LSAT: Logic-heavy, for law school.
Raising Your Score
Jennifer Winward (Winward Academy) advises:
- Track mistakes (e.g., forgotten math formulas).
- Build vocabulary with missed words.
- Read actively to improve speed/recall.
