Study Guide to the GRE General Test

Preparing for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test requires understanding its syllabus, subject, and exam. This study guide aims to provide an in-depth overview of the GRE General Test, covering its format, syllabus, fees, sample questions, differences from subject tests, test patterns, and effective practices to excel in the examination.   

But first, understand what is the GRE General Test. The GRE General Test is a standardised test used by graduate schools and business programs worldwide to evaluate students for advanced academic study. 

GRE General Test Syllabus

The GRE General Test syllabus has three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. 

• Verbal Reasoning assesses the ability to analyse and evaluate written material and synthesise its information.
• Quantitative Reasoning measures problem-solving abilities using basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis concepts.
• Analytical Writing is a test of critical thinking and written communication skills.

GRE General Test Fee

The fee for the GRE General Test varies by country and includes the cost of sending score reports to designated institutions. Additional fees for late registration, rescheduling, or score review services may apply. 

Test Fee

Special handling requests

GRE General Test Pattern: 

The GRE General Test consists of multiple-choice questions and essay tasks. It is administered via computer-based testing and includes an optional 10-minute break between sections. Understanding the test pattern helps manage time effectively during the examination.

Practice Questions

Regular practice with GRE-style questions is essential for improving performance. Official GRE practice materials, online resources, and mock tests to strengthen weak areas and enhance test-taking strategies.

Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions:

Sentence Equivalence: Practice completing sentences by selecting the words that best meet the sentence's meaning.

Text Completion: Practice filling in a passage's blanks with the most appropriate words or phrases.

Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions:

Quantitative Comparison: Practice comparing two quantities and determining the relationship between them.

Problem Solving: Practice solving mathematical problems covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

Analytical Writing Practice Questions:

Argument Task: Practice analysing and critiquing arguments, identifying logical fallacies, and suggesting improvements.

Issue Task: Practice presenting well-reasoned arguments on a given issue, supporting your position with examples and evidence.

Official GRE practice questions and materials are available on the Educational Testing Service (ETS) website, including free sample questions and practice tests. Additionally, numerous GRE preparation books, online courses, and practice test providers offer a wide range of practice questions to help you prepare for the exam effectively.

Remember to practice regularly, review your answers, and understand the rationale behind the correct solutions to improve your performance on the GRE General Test.

GRE General Test Results

After completing the GRE General Test, test-takers immediately receive unofficial Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores. Official scores, including Analytical Writing scores, are available online approximately 10–15 days after the test date. Understanding score reports helps interpret strengths and areas for improvement.

After completing the GRE General Test, test-takers receive unofficial Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores immediately at the test centre. These unofficial scores provide a preliminary indication of your performance in these sections.

Official GRE General Test scores, including Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, are available online approximately 10–15 days after the test date. You can access your official scores through your ETS (Educational Testing Service) account.

Here are a few essential points about the GRE General Test results:

Score Reporting:

ETS sends your official GRE scores to the institutions you selected during the test registration process. You can choose up to four recipient institutions to receive your scores for free. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.

Score Scale:

Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores range from 130 to 170 in one-point increments. Analytical Writing scores range from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.

Score Interpretation:

Your GRE scores reflect your performance relative to other test-takers. They provide insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. Institutions use GRE scores as part of their admissions process to evaluate applicants' readiness for graduate-level academic work.

Score Validity:

GRE scores are valid for up to five years after the testing year in which you tested (July 1–June 30).

Score Review:

If you believe there is an issue with your scores, you can request a score review for a fee. This process entails hand-scoring your multiple-choice responses and reevaluating your Analytical Writing responses.

Understanding your GRE General Test results is crucial for evaluating your readiness for graduate study and making informed decisions about your academic future. It's essential to interpret your scores in the context of the programs to which you plan to apply and to consider other aspects of your application, such as academic background, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

The GRE General Test and GRE Subject Tests serve different purposes:

GRE General Test: 

This test assesses general aptitude in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. It's typically required for admission to graduate programs and business schools. Scores for the General Test are reported on a scale of 130 to 170 for verbal and quantitative reasoning and 0 to 6 for analytical writing.

GRE Subject Tests: 

These tests evaluate knowledge in specific subject areas, such as Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. Each Subject Test is scored on a scale of 200 to 990. 

While some graduate programs may require or recommend Subject Test scores, many do not, so it's essential to check the requirements of the programs to which you're applying.

Regarding the scoring system, the GRE General Test scores range from 130 to 170 for verbal and quantitative reasoning and 0 to 6 for analytical writing. The Subject test scores range from 200 to 990.

Read more: GMAT Vs GRE: Which Exam Should You Take?

In conclusion, thorough preparation and familiarity with the GRE General Test are crucial for achieving competitive scores and gaining admission to desired graduate programs. Candidates can confidently enhance their performance and pursue academic goals by understanding the test format, practising diligently, and implementing effective strategies. 

Last but not least, practice makes a man perfect. Keep up the consistent practice to improve time management and problem-solving skills. Using these top-notch GRE books and getting complete guidance from the IMS GRE live online program will set you on the path to GRE success in 2024.