GRE

Your Path to Graduate School Success

What makes GRE Prep School the preferred choice?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an internationally recognized standardized test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is widely utilized as an admissions requirement for graduate programs, particularly in the United States, to assess a candidate's preparedness and aptitude for advanced academic studies.

Individuals who aspire to pursue a master's degree, doctoral degree, or business-related graduate programs, such as an MBA, typically take the GRE exam. It evaluates a range of skills across three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.

The Analytical Writing section gauges the candidate's ability to analyze complex issues critically, construct well-organized arguments, and effectively articulate their thoughts in writing. The Verbal Reasoning section assesses reading comprehension skills, vocabulary usage, and the capacity to comprehend and analyze written material. The Quantitative Reasoning section tests mathematical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and the application of quantitative methods.

The GRE exam is computer-based, and the scores remain valid for up to five years. It is accepted by numerous universities and institutions worldwide, serving as a standardized measure of a candidate's potential for success in graduate-level academic programs.

Overview

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What is GRE Exam?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an internationally recognized standardized test conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is specifically designed to evaluate the readiness and aptitude of individuals for pursuing graduate-level academic studies. The GRE exam holds significant importance as an admissions requirement for a wide range of graduate programs, particularly in the United States. It serves as a common benchmark for assessing the skills and abilities of applicants, enabling universities and institutions to make informed decisions during the admission process.

Why GRE exam is taken?

The GRE exam also serves other purposes beyond graduate program admissions and financial aid:

Subject-Specific Programs: Some specialized graduate programs may require applicants to take the GRE subject tests, which assess knowledge in specific academic disciplines such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, literature, physics, and psychology. These subject tests allow individuals to demonstrate their expertise and readiness for advanced studies in their chosen fields.

Career Advancement: In certain fields, employers may consider GRE scores as an indicator of an individual's analytical and intellectual abilities. A competitive GRE score can enhance job prospects and provide a competitive edge when seeking career advancement opportunities.

From September 2023 onwards, the updated GRE General Test will be completed in less than two hours, significantly reducing the current test duration by half. This transformation positions the GRE as the quickest and most efficient graduate school admissions test, setting a new standard for contemporary educational assessments.

GRE Cut Off

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) does not have a fixed cutoff score set by the ETS (Educational Testing Service). Annually, more than half a million candidates from 160 countries take the GRE General Test at 1,000 test centers worldwide. Moreover, over 1,200 business schools globally accept GRE scores for their graduate programs. The exam is designed to assess the verbal, analytical, and mathematical skills of test-takers.

The GRE is available in a computer-based format at authorized test centers or can be taken at home through the GRE at Home format, offering a convenient and user-friendly testing experience. Individuals applying to graduate schools for Master of Science (MS) or MBA programs are generally required to take the GRE exam as part of their application process.

Best Books for GRE

These are the top five GRE preparation books currently recommended:

Kaplan GRE Prep Plus

TPB GRE Prep Review Book

The Princeton Review GRE Premium Prep

GRE Prep Book By Magoosh

Manhattan Prep 5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems

It is worth mentioning that the GRE exam does not have specific eligibility criteria in terms of age or qualifications for applicants to submit the GRE 2023 application form. The only requirement is for candidates to possess a valid passport as a form of identification to be admitted to the examination center. However, it is essential for candidates to meet the admission criteria set by their respective graduate schools when submitting their applications.

Although the eligibility criteria for the GRE exam are flexible, graduate schools typically seek applicants who are interested in pursuing post-graduate or doctoral degrees. They also value candidates who have gained a few years of work experience and have already obtained an undergraduate degree. These factors are often considered by graduate schools to assess a candidate's readiness and suitability for their programs.

GRE Eligibility Criteria

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is administered in two primary formats:

GRE General Test: The GRE General Test is the most commonly taken type of GRE exam and is designed for individuals interested in pursuing graduate programs such as master's, doctoral, or business-related degrees. This test evaluates a candidate's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The verbal reasoning section assesses reading comprehension, vocabulary usage, and critical thinking. The quantitative reasoning section measures mathematical abilities, problem-solving skills, and data interpretation. The analytical writing section evaluates the candidate's capacity to express complex ideas, construct arguments, and provide supporting evidence.

GRE Subject Tests: Alongside the GRE General Test, ETS offers GRE Subject Tests that focus on specific academic disciplines. These tests are intended for individuals with extensive knowledge and expertise in a particular subject area. GRE Subject Tests are available in disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Literature in English, Physics, and Psychology. They evaluate the candidate's understanding and proficiency in the specific subject, providing an opportunity to showcase their expertise in the field.

Types of GRE Exam?

When it comes to taking the GRE exam, applicants should pay close attention to the availability of exam dates. Fortunately, GRE test-takers have the flexibility to select from a range of GRE 2023 dates that best suit their schedules. By considering the available dates, applicants can effectively plan their study timelines and ensure they have ample time to prepare for the exam. It is crucial to be mindful of the application deadlines set by the respective graduate schools and submit applications in a timely manner to avoid any complications.

Having the ability to choose suitable exam dates allows GRE applicants to align their preparation strategies with their personal commitments and academic goals. By strategically planning their study plans and scheduling the exam accordingly, applicants can optimize their chances of achieving their desired scores. It is recommended to monitor the availability of GRE exam dates regularly, as they may vary based on the location and test center capacity. By staying informed and being proactive in selecting the most convenient date, applicants can set themselves up for success in their GRE journey.

GRE Test Dates

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and serves as an admissions requirement for various postgraduate programs worldwide. With over 1,000 test centers available in more than 160 countries, aspiring test takers have the flexibility to choose their preferred GRE test centers for the GRE 2023 exam. This allows individuals to select a test center that is convenient in terms of both location and available dates.

The GRE exam is conducted in two different formats: the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. The GRE General Test evaluates a candidate's overall knowledge and skills, and it can be taken in both computer-based and paper-based formats. On the other hand, the GRE Subject Test focuses on assessing a candidate's knowledge in a specific subject area and is available only in a paper-based format.

The computer-based GRE General Test is offered throughout the year, allowing candidates to schedule appointments based on availability. Appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for test takers to choose a convenient date. As per ETS officials, candidates are permitted to take the online GRE revised General Test once every 21 days, with a maximum of five test attempts within any continuous rolling 12-month period.

For regions where the computer-delivered test is not available, the paper-delivered test is an alternative option. It is offered three times a year specifically in October, November, and February. Test takers in these regions can choose one of these three months to take the GRE General Test in the paper-based format.

The availability of both computer-based and paper-based formats, along with the scheduling options, provides candidates with flexibility when planning their GRE test dates. It ensures that individuals have opportunities throughout the year to take the GRE General Test based on their preferences and the availability of test centers in their region.

GRE Test Centers

The GRE exam fees in India vary depending on the type of test taken. For the GRE General Test, the application fee for Indian students is $228, which is approximately Rs. 18,863.31 in Indian rupees. On the other hand, the GRE Subject Test has a worldwide fee of $150, equivalent to roughly Rs. 12,410.07 for Indian students.

It's important to note that additional fees may apply if applicants wish to change their test center or reschedule the test date. These fees are separate from the initial application fee and will vary based on the specific changes requested.

GRE Exam Fee

The GRE exam pattern is released by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to provide aspiring test-takers with an understanding of the question paper structure and format. The pattern outlines the number of questions and the overall structure of the GRE exam. The GRE exam is conducted in two modes: computer-delivered and paper-delivered.

The GRE General Exam pattern focuses on three key skills: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Each section has a designated duration, as specified by the authorities. Test-takers need to prepare for these sections to demonstrate their abilities in these areas.

In addition to the GRE General Exam, there is also the GRE Subject Exam. This exam is tailored to specific subjects such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. Test-takers will face questions related to their chosen subject, allowing them to showcase their knowledge and expertise.

By understanding the GRE exam pattern, test-takers can develop effective strategies and allocate appropriate time for each section. It helps them familiarize themselves with the structure of the exam and prepare accordingly to achieve their desired scores.

GRE Exam Pattern

The GRE Analytical Writing syllabus emphasizes the following skills:

Effectively expressing complex ideas in a clear and concise manner.

Providing relevant reasons and examples to support ideas.

Analyzing claims and accompanying evidence.

Maintaining a well-focused and coherent discussion.

Demonstrating control over the elements of standard written English.

The GRE Verbal Reasoning syllabus focuses on the following areas:

Analyzing and drawing conclusions from discourse.

Reasoning from incomplete data.

Identifying the author's assumptions and perspective.

Understanding multiple levels of meaning, including literal, figurative, and author's intent.

Selecting important points, distinguishing major from minor or irrelevant points, and summarizing text.

Understanding the structure of a text.

Comprehending the meaning of individual words, sentences, and entire texts, as well as the relationships among words and concepts.

The GRE Quantitative Reasoning syllabus covers the following domains:

Understanding, interpreting, and analyzing quantitative information.

Solving problems using mathematical models.

Applying basic skills and elementary concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

GRE Syllabus

Selecting the appropriate GRE exam dates requires careful consideration to maximize preparation time and meet university application deadlines. To achieve a strong GRE test score, it is crucial to align the exam dates with the intake and admission deadlines of the desired universities. For instance, if you intend to apply for the fall intake, scheduling the GRE exam in November would be advisable.

An essential tip for GRE preparation is setting a target score that aligns with your desired admissions goals. It is crucial to research and analyze the average GRE scores of previously admitted candidates to your preferred colleges or universities. This information will provide valuable insight into the expected GRE scores that these institutions consider. By determining the specific GRE score required for admissions, you can establish a clear benchmark to guide your preparation efforts.

Including a GRE practice test as a vital component of your GRE preparation strategy is highly recommended. This will provide valuable insights into your current standing in relation to the score expectations of your target universities. It will help you identify the specific target GRE score you should aim for to enhance your chances of admission. Additionally, taking a practice test will enable you to assess your strengths and weaknesses, highlighting the areas of the GRE exam that require focused attention to achieve your desired score. By gaining this valuable information, you can refine your study plan and allocate your efforts effectively to maximize your performance in the exam.

GRE Preparation Tips

In order to register and apply for the GRE 2023 exam, individuals are required to have an ETS (Educational Testing Service) account. The official direct link for ETS GRE registration can be found at ets.org/login.html. For applicants from India, the registration process takes place at etsindia.org/gre. The steps for GRE exam registration may vary slightly depending on the chosen mode of the exam.

For those opting to take the GRE exam at home, specific technical requirements related to computer specifications and internet connections must be met. On the other hand, if selecting the option to take the GRE 2023 exam at a test center, the registration process involves checking the details of the chosen center, selecting a convenient date, and choosing a suitable time slot.

The steps for GRE registration 2023 are as follows:

Create an ETS account by visiting ets.org/gre.html. Indian applicants should register for the GRE at etsindia.org/gre.

Choose the mode of the GRE exam - either at home or at a test center.

If selecting a test center, choose the country, city, and center location. The next step is to indicate the desired date and time for the exam.

Finally, make the payment for the GRE exam fee and submit the registration.

By following these steps, individuals can successfully register for the GRE 2023 exam and begin their journey towards pursuing their educational goals.

GRE Registration

Indian students who plan to take the GRE exam can take advantage of various scholarship opportunities. These scholarships provide financial assistance to cover the expenses related to the GRE exam, including the cost of the exam itself, study materials, and preparation courses. Here are some examples of GRE scholarships available for Indian students:

Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships: This program offers funding to Indian students pursuing a master's degree at a university in the United States. The scholarship includes coverage of the GRE exam fees.

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation: This foundation provides scholarships to Indian students seeking a master's degree or Ph.D. at prestigious institutions in the United States, United Kingdom, or Europe. The scholarship covers the cost of the GRE exam.

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program: Indian students, along with students from select countries, can apply for this scholarship to pursue graduate studies. The scholarship includes coverage of the GRE exam fees.

American India Foundation William J. Clinton Fellowship: This fellowship supports Indian students who wish to engage in development projects in India. The scholarship covers the cost of the GRE exam.

DAAD Scholarship: Offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship supports Indian students pursuing a master's degree or Ph.D. in Germany. The scholarship includes coverage of the GRE exam fees.

These scholarships provide valuable financial assistance to Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education and help alleviate the financial burden associated with the GRE exam.