What Is The GRE Score Percentiles In 2024?

Did you know that in 2023, only 10% of GRE test-takers scored above 162 in Verbal Reasoning and 166 in Quantitative Reasoning? As we step into 2024, these numbers are expected to shift, leaving many prospective graduate students wondering where they stand. The GRE score percentiles can feel like a maze of numbers, leaving you scratching your head and questioning your chances of getting into your dream program.

A good GRE score isn’t just about hitting a magic number.  it’s your ticket to the grad school big leagues. But here’s where it gets tricky. Most folks obsess over that total score, completely missing the goldmine hiding in the section percentiles. It’s like bringing a knife to a gunfight. But don’t freak out. We’re going to crack this code together, no fancy jargon required.

What Is A Good GRE Score Percentile?

Your percentile tells you how many people you’ve outscored. If you’re in the 75th percentile, congrats – you’ve beaten 75% of the crowd. But here’s the kicker: what’s “good” depends on where you’re aiming.

For top-tier universities in USA, you might need to hit the 90th percentile or higher. That’s roughly 162+ in Verbal reasoning score and 166+ in Quant. Sounds tough? It is. But for many solid programs, the 80th percentile (around 157 in Verbal, 160 in Quant) can open doors. And don’t forget the often-overlooked GRE Analytical Writing – aim for 4.0+.

Your target score should make the admissions folks go, “Huh, this one’s interesting.” It’s about standing out in your field. An English Lit major crushing the Verbal section? Expected. But if they ace the GRE Test Quant too? Now that’s eye-catching. 

Remember, these numbers aren’t set in stone. They shift every year based on how everyone performs. So, your mission? Figure out where you stand, where you need to be, and bridge that gap. It’s not just about the numbers – it’s about showing you’ve got what it takes to crush it in grad school.

What GRE Percentile Should Be Your Aim In 2024?

What GRE percentile should you go for in 2024? Let’s break it down without the fluff. Your target score depends on your dream school and field, but here’s a quick rundown to get you started:

Program Type	Verbal	Quantitative	Analytical Writing
Top-tier	165+ (95th%)	170 (97th%)	5.0+ (93rd%)
Solid Graduate	157+ (80th%)	160+ (76th%)	4.5+ (80th%)
Engineering	155+ (70th%)	165+ (90th%)	4.0+ (54th%)
Humanities	165+ (95th%)	155+ (60th%)	5.0+ (93rd%)

6 Ways To Improve Your GRE  Percentile Scores

Improving your GRE percentile scores can be a challenge, but with the right strategies, you can see a significant difference in your performance. Whether you’re aiming for a higher GRE exam score to enter a competitive program or planning to take the GRE for science students, it’s all about working smarter, not harder. Here are six practical strategies to help you achieve your targeted GRE score.

1. Focus on Your Weak Sections

Start by identifying where you score lower—be it the verbal or quantitative sections. If your GRE verbal score needs improvement, allocate more time to mastering vocabulary and reading comprehension. If it’s the GRE quantitative reasoning section that’s holding you back, sharpen your math fundamentals and problem-solving speed.

2. Use GRE Practice Tests Effectively

Consistently taking the GRE practice tests will not only familiarize you with the test format but will also show you how your raw score is converted to a scaled score. This helps you compare your performance to your target GRE score, ensuring you’re on track to meet your goals. GRE online coaching and similar tools are excellent for tracking progress.

3. Improve Time Management

Timing is everything when it comes to the verbal and quantitative section scores. To achieve a perfect score on the verbal, practice pacing yourself to ensure you’re completing all questions within the time limit. The same goes for the GRE quantitative reasoning section, where speed and accuracy play key roles in improving your percentile.

4. Leverage Additional Study Resources

Learn about GRE by using high-quality study resources. Sites like Magoosh GRE Prep, as well as official GRE practice materials, provide in-depth strategies for each section. These resources can boost your confidence and raise your scores to a higher percentile.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Understand that a GRE score of 170 in both the verbal and quantitative sections is rare. Instead, focus on achieving scores of the same level within your target program’s requirements. For instance, the GRE score for engineering applicants is typically more focused on quantitative reasoning scores.

6. Regularly Review Your Progress

After each practice test, compare your GRE and GMAT scores to see how you’re progressing. Analyze where your percentile scores are lower and adjust your study plan accordingly. This will keep you on track to consistently improve your GRE score and reach your target percentile.

Conclusion

At the end, one of the most important tips is to focus on mastering time management. No matter how well you know the content, if you can’t manage the clock effectively during the verbal and quantitative sections, you’ll struggle to reach your target score. Practice under timed conditions to build your speed and accuracy—this can make all the difference in boosting your GRE percentile.

Also, by focusing on your weak sections, using practice tests effectively, and leveraging quality study resources, you can improve your GRE percentile scores. Setting realistic goals based on your target program’s expectations and reviewing your progress regularly will help you stay on track. Remember, it’s not just about scoring high—it’s about showing you have what it takes to succeed in grad school.

Navigate your path to GRE success with Ambitio’s precision preparation. Designed for ambitious students, our platform provides a strategic approach to the GRE, offering in-depth content review, practice tests, and personalized feedback to optimize your study time and results.

FAQs