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Graduate Record Examinations
- Jan. 16, 2023
- Posted By : C2E Team
The Ultimate Guide to GRE Exam: Everything You Need to Know
Are you planning to apply for a graduate program in the United States or other countries? If so, you may be required to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), which is a standardized test designed to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the GRE exam, including the format, content, scoring, registration process, test-taking tips, and frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
- What is the GRE Exam?
- GRE Exam Format and Sections
- GRE Exam Content and Skills Tested
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
- GRE Exam Scoring and Score Range
- GRE Exam Registration Process
- GRE Exam Test-Taking Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
1. What is the GRE Exam?
The GRE Exam is a standardised test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) that is required for admission to most graduate programs in the United States and other countries. The GRE Exam is designed to measure your abilities in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills. The GRE Exam is available in two formats: the computer-delivered test and the paper-delivered test.
2. GRE Exam Format and Sections
The GRE Exam consists of six sections that assess your skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The first section is an unscored research section, which is used by ETS to test new questions for future exams. The remaining five sections are scored, and they include:
- Verbal Reasoning Section 1 (20 questions, 30 minutes)
- Verbal Reasoning Section 2 (20 questions, 30 minutes)
- Verbal Reasoning Section 2 (20 questions, 30 minutes)
- Quantitative Reasoning Section 2 (20 questions, 35 minutes)
- Analytical Writing Section (1 essay, 30 minutes)
The computer-delivered test includes an additional unscored section, which may be either a second research section or an additional verbal or quantitative reasoning section. The paper-delivered test does not include the unscored section.
3. GRE Exam Content and Skills Tested
Verbal Reasoning
The verbal reasoning sections of the GRE Exam assess your abilities in reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence. The questions are designed to test your understanding of complex ideas, vocabulary, and syntax. You may encounter passages from different disciplines, including social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities.
Quantitative Reasoning
The quantitative reasoning sections of the GRE Exam assess your abilities in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The questions are designed to test your problem-solving skills and ability to interpret and analyse quantitative information.
Analytical Writing
The analytical writing section of the GRE Exam requires you to write two essays: an issue task and an argument task. The essays are designed to test your ability to articulate complex ideas, analyse and evaluate arguments, and communicate effectively in writing.
4. GRE Exam Scoring and Score Range
The GRE Exam is scored on a scale of 130-170 for the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections, and on a scale of 0-6 for the analytical writing section. The scores for the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections are reported in one-point increments, while the scores for the analytical writing section are reported in half-point increments.
5. GRE Exam Registration Process
To register for the GRE Exam, you must create an account on the ETS website and follow the steps below:
- Choose your test date and location: The GRE Exam is offered year-round at test centers around the world. You can find available test dates and locations on the ETS website.
- Create an ETS account: You will need to provide personal information such as your name, email address, and date of birth to create an account.
- Provide identification: You will need to provide valid identification on the day of the test, such as a passport or national ID card.
- Pay the registration fee: The registration fee for the GRE Exam varies by location. You can pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, PayPal, or an electronic check.
- Receive confirmation: Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and location.
6. GRE Exam Test-Taking Tips
Here are some tips to help you prepare for and succeed on the GRE Exam:
- Understand the format: Familiarize yourself with the format of the GRE Exam, including the number of sections, the types of questions, and the time limits.
- Practice, practice, practice: Take practice tests to get a feel for the types of questions you will encounter on the GRE Exam. ETS offers free practice tests on their website.
- Manage your time: Use your time wisely during the exam and make sure you pace yourself. Don't spend too much time on one question, as you may run out of time for other questions.
- Stay focused: Concentrate on the questions at hand and avoid distractions during the exam.
- Bring necessary items: Make sure you bring all necessary items to the exam, such as identification, test confirmation, and any approved calculators or other materials.
FAQs
The computer-delivered test is administered via a computer and includes an unscored research section, while the paper-delivered test is administered via paper and pencil and does not include the unscored section.
You can take the GRE Exam once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period.
You can view your unofficial scores for the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections immediately after the exam, but it may take up to 10-15 days to receive your official scores.
Yes, you can cancel your GRE Exam scores within 72 hours of your test date.
Yes, you can send your GRE Exam scores to up to four graduate programs or business schools for free.
8. Conclusion
The GRE Exam is an important step in the graduate school application process, and it is essential to prepare adequately to achieve the best possible score. Understanding the format, content, and scoring of the GRE Exam, as well as the registration process and test-taking tips, can help you succeed on this important exam. Remember to take advantage of resources like practice tests and study materials, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.