5 GRE Frequently Asked Questions In 2024

In 2024, the GRE remains a crucial test for anyone aiming to get into graduate school, business schools, or even some MBA tracks. With around half a million test-takers annually, understanding the most frequently asked questions about the GRE is vital for anyone preparing for this important exam. Whether it’s about the GRE score requirements or how the GRE exam compares to other tests like the GMAT, having clear answers to these questions can ease much of the anxiety surrounding the test.

Let’s be real—preparing for the GRE can feel overwhelming. From choosing the right study materials to grappling with the math section or analytical writing, many find themselves unsure of where to begin. In addition, the confusion about retakes, test timing, and ETS regulations, as well as the whole process, can seem like an endless maze. But with the right guidance, you can tackle the GRE test efficiently and confidently, setting yourself up for success in your desired graduate program.

What GRE Exam Is For?

The GRE General Test is a crucial step for anyone aiming to secure a place in graduate programs or business schools. It evaluates test takers across multiple skill sets through verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing sections. Whether you’re preparing for the computer-based or paper-based test, it’s important to understand the structure and format of the GRE to effectively plan your GRE preparation and test day strategy.

Key details about the GRE General Test:

• The test consists of verbal and quantitative sections, each scored on a scale of 130-170 in 1-point increments.
• The verbal section focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical reasoning.
• The quantitative section assesses math skills like algebra, geometry, and data analysis through problem-solving questions.
• The analytical writing section is scored on a scale of 0-6, and includes two tasks: the issue task and the argument task.
• The test can be taken multiple times in a rolling 12-month period, allowing test takers to retake and improve their scores.
• The GRE is offered throughout the year at various testing centers.
• The test is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats.
• Effective GRE preparation includes using sample tests, GRE math practice, and focusing on both verbal and quantitative sections.

What Is A Good GRE Score?

A good GRE score largely depends on the specific graduate program you’re aiming for, but generally, a score in the 160+ range for both the verbal and quantitative sections is considered competitive for top-tier programs. The GRE verbal and quantitative sections are each scored on a scale of 130-170 in 1-point increments, and a combined score of around 310-320 is often seen as solid for many graduate schools. For the analytical writing section, a score of 4.0 or higher (out of 6.0) is typically viewed as strong.

Who Accepts The GRE?

Almost all top universities accept the GRE for their graduate programs, including both general and specialized fields like business, engineering, and social sciences. For students looking to enter graduate school, the GRE general test is often a key requirement. The test evaluates skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, offering a comprehensive look at a candidate’s academic potential.

Here are 10 popular universities that accept the GRE exam:

University	QS Rank 2024	Average Fees (USD/year)	Average Salary (USD/year)	GRE Cutoff (Verbal/Quant)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1	$53,790	$100,000+	157/162
Stanford University	5	$55,905	$120,000+	158/163
University of California, Berkeley	10	$44,008	$100,000	155/161
University of Michigan, Dearborn	23	$51,200	$90,000+	154/161
Carnegie Mellon University	52	$47,300	$102,000	159/161
Georgia Institute of Technology	47	$33,964	$95,000	155/161
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	85	$34,330	$90,000	155/163
University of Texas, Austin	72	$38,326	$98,000	155/160
Purdue University	118	$28,794	$92,000	158/163
Cornell University	20	$59,316	$105,000	160/162

What Is The Difference Between GRE General Tests And GRE Subject Tests?

There are many differences between the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Tests, each serving different purposes based on a candidate’s field of study and academic goals. While the GRE General Test evaluates broad skills such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, the GRE Subject Tests focus on assessing knowledge in specific academic disciplines like physics, mathematics, and psychology.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two:

Aspect	GRE General Test	GRE Subject Tests
Purpose	Evaluates general academic skills required for graduate programs across disciplines.	Assesses subject-specific knowledge in areas like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Psychology.
Sections	Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing.	No separate sections; focused entirely on a specific subject.
Who Should Take It	Students applying to a wide range of graduate programs.	Students applying to specialized programs that require strong foundational knowledge in a specific subject.
Availability	Offered year-round at testing centers worldwide.	Offered three times a year (April, September, and October).
Test Format	Computer-based and paper-based (limited locations).	Paper-based only.
Duration	3 hours 45 minutes.	2 hours 50 minutes.
Score Range	130-170 (verbal and quantitative) and 0-6 for analytical writing.	Score range of 200-990 (depending on the subject).
Use in Admissions	Commonly required for most graduate programs.	Required or recommended by certain specialized programs.
Number of Questions	Approximately 100-130 across all sections.	Varies by subject; typically between 50-100 questions.
Test Preparation	General test prep resources, sample tests for verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections.	Specific test prep resources related to the subject test area.

What Should Be The GRE Test Prep Strategies?

When it comes to GRE test prep strategies, it’s essential to go beyond the generic advice of “study hard” or “practice daily.” Crafting a winning strategy means being tactical and practical, leveraging your time and resources efficiently to score your best. Here are four out-of-this-world strategies that can truly make a difference:

Simulate High-Pressure Test Conditions

Most students practice in comfortable environments, but the actual GRE is high-pressure. Mimic real test conditions—noisy settings, time limits, no breaks—to condition yourself mentally. The goal is to get your brain used to performing under stress so that the real test feels manageable.

Master Time-Specific Section Pacing

Each GRE section demands a unique pacing strategy. For example, the quantitative section allows about 1 minute and 45 seconds per question. Train yourself to recognize when a question is too time-consuming and move on, coming back later if time allows. Practicing this strategy reduces anxiety and ensures you attempt all questions without getting stuck.

Leverage A/B Testing with Practice Tests

Instead of randomly practicing, set up two test prep “campaigns.” Spend one week using a particular set of prep materials, then switch for the next week. Track your results using test score analytics. This A/B testing approach helps you find the most effective resources and strategies for your learning style, maximizing improvement in minimal time.

Build Muscle Memory for Problem-Solving

For sections like math, focusing on building muscle memory by practicing similar problems over and over is key. This is especially true for problem types you know you’re weak at. Repetition leads to automatic recall, and come test day, these questions will feel second nature, allowing you to breeze through while saving mental energy for tougher sections.

Conclusion

The GRE can be overwhelming, but it’s manageable with the right strategy and mindset. The key is understanding what each section tests, tailoring your preparation to your strengths and weaknesses, and practicing in a realistic, high-pressure environment. It’s not about cramming; it’s about being smart with your time and using strategies that work for you.

At the end of the day, the GRE is just one piece of the puzzle—what truly counts is your overall profile and how well-rounded it is.

Elevate your GRE performance with Ambitio’s tailored strategies. Our preparation platform gives you a competitive edge, offering advanced insights into the GRE’s structure and scoring, alongside targeted practice to enhance your skills and confidence.

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