Test information
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test used by many graduate schools to evaluate applicants' verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The GRE General Test is developed and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
GRE scores are valid for five years.
The GRE General Test covers the following sections:
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section assesses your ability to understand written material, analyze information, and evaluate relationships between words and concepts. Question types include:
- Reading Comprehension
- Text Completion
- Sentence Equivalence
The Verbal Reasoning section measures your ability to:
- Analyze and draw conclusions from written material, reason from incomplete information, and identify an author's assumptions and perspective.
- Identify important points, distinguish major ideas from irrelevant details, summarize text, and understand text structure.
- Understand the meanings of words, sentences, and passages, as well as relationships between words and concepts.
Quantitative Reasoning
The Quantitative Reasoning section evaluates your ability to interpret quantitative information and solve mathematical problems. Question types include:
- Quantitative Comparison Questions
- Multiple-choice Questions — Select One Answer Choice
- Multiple-choice Questions — Select One or More Answer Choices
- Numeric Entry Questions
The Quantitative Reasoning section measures your ability to:
- Understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information.
- Solve problems using mathematical models.
- Apply basic skills and concepts in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
An on-screen calculator is available for the computer-delivered GRE General Test.
Analytical Writing
The Analytical Writing section evaluates your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, support arguments with relevant reasons and examples, and develop a coherent discussion.
The section includes an Analyze an Issue task.
- Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples.
- Examine claims and accompanying evidence.
- Sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion.
- Demonstrate control of standard written English.
The Analytical Writing section requires focused responses to the task presented, allowing you to demonstrate your ability to develop and support an argument effectively.
Score Scales
The GRE General Test reports the following scores:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130–170, in 1-point increments.
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170, in 1-point increments.
- Analytical Writing: 0–6, in half-point increments.
If you do not answer any questions in a section, that section may be reported as No Score (NS).
GRE Test Fees
GRE test fees vary by location and may change over time. Please check the official ETS website for the latest registration fees and applicable charges.
GRE Subject Tests
GRE Subject Tests assess knowledge in specific academic disciplines. Available subjects may include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Literature in English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
Subject Test availability, scoring, and registration fees depend on the test and current ETS policies. Refer to the official website for the latest information.