What is the GRE Test and how is it structured?
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) General Test is a multiple-choice admission test for
applicants to graduate schools. The test is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS),
under the sponsorship of the Graduate Record Examinations Board. The GRE is a computer-adaptive
test (CAT), and consists of three scored sections:
Two essays to be written on the computer: Analysis of an Argument and Analysis of an Issue (introduced in October 2002)
One 45-minute, 28-question Math section: Problem Solving and Quantitative Comparison
One 30-minute, 30-question Verbal section: Sentence Completions, Antonyms, Analogies, and Reading Comprehension
In addition, there may be a marketing survey, or one or two experimental sections, which can be
Verbal or Quantitative.
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 Test scored?
Each of the multiple-choice 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. The Analytical Writing section is
scored on a scale of 0 to 6.
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 test. 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 know if I am ready for the GRE Test?
Try our free online GRE course demo, which includes a full-length practice test. When you finish
the practice test you'll get a complete report detailing your strengths and weaknesses. If you are
satisfied with your results, then you may be ready. If you feel that you still need help, check
out The Princeton Review's many test preparation options or call 800-2Review.
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 test 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 test 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 Test?
The fee to take the GRE test is $115 within the United States, some U.S. Territories, and Puerto
Rico. The fee is $140 in all other locations (except China, including Hong Kong, Korea, and Taiwan,
where it is $175).
What are the GRE Subject Tests?
The GRE Subject Tests are intended to measure your knowledge of specific subject matter. Subject
Tests are available in eight disciplines: biochemistry, cell and molecular 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.
These tests are given separately from the GRE General Test and require additional fees. Check with
the graduate schools to which you are applying to determine whether any of these extra tests are
required.
Where can I get more information about the GRE Test?
You can contact us here at The Princeton Review by calling 800-2Review. Or you can contact the
Educational Testing Service (ETS) at:
(800) GRE-CALL (609) 771-7670 www.gre.org
How do I enroll in Princeton Review's GRE course at a discount?
To register for a course, call 800-2Review or visit PrincetonReview.com and provide this unique
promo code to receive a $75.00 discount: NAMBWG
