Brought to you by The Princeton ReviewThe 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:
- One 30-minute, 30-question "Verbal Ability" (vocabulary and reading) section
- One 45-minute, 28-question "Quantitative Ability" (math) section
- One 60-minute, 35-question "Analytical Ability" (games and arguments) section
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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.
Each of the three sections is scored on a scale of 200 to 800. The average scores for the GRE are about 470 for Verbal, 570 for Quantitative, and 540 for Analytical. 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. 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?
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 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 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?
The fee to take the GRE is $105 within the United States, some U.S. Territories, and Puerto Rico. The fee is $130 in all other locations. What are the GRE Subject Tests and Writing Assessment Test (WAT)?
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. The WAT is a computer-based test, consisting of two analytical writing tasks: a 45-minute essay in which you present your perspective on a particular issue; and a 30-minute essay in which you analyze an argument. 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. As of October 2002, the WAT will become part of the GRE General Test, replacing the multiple-choice "Analytical Ability" section. Where can I get more information about the GRE?
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
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