The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) plays a crucial role in the application process for graduate or business schools. This computer-based, multiple-choice standardized test is frequently a requirement for admission into graduate programs and MBA programs worldwide.
Frequency- quarterly
Mode- Computerised Exam
Exam Pattern
The GRE General Test is a computer-based exam designed for flexibility. It allows test-takers to skip questions, revisit them, and choose the order in which they answer questions within each section.
The test duration is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes, consisting of five sections.
Measure | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
---|---|---|
Analytical Writing (One section) | One "Analyze an Issue" task | 30 minutes |
Verbal Reasoning (Two sections) | Section 1: 12 questions | Section 1: 18 minutes |
Section 2: 15 questions | Section 2: 23 minutes | |
Quantitative Reasoning (Two sections) | Section 1: 12 questions | Section 1: 21 minutes |
Section 2: 15 questions | Section 2: 26 minutes |
The Analytical Writing section is always first, followed by the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections in any order.
The test lasts about 3 hours and 45 minutes and consists of six sections, including a 10-minute break after the third section.
Measure | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
---|---|---|
Analytical Writing (One section with two tasks) | One "Analyze an Issue" task and one "Analyze an Argument" task | 30 minutes per task |
Verbal Reasoning (Two sections) | 20 questions per section | 30 minutes per section |
Quantitative Reasoning (Two sections) | 20 questions per section | 35 minutes per section |
Unscored¹ | Varies | Varies |
Research² | Varies | Varies |
The Analytical Writing section always comes first. The other sections, including Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and unidentified/unscored sections, may appear in any sequence, so it's important to approach each section as if it contributes to your score.
Section-Level Adaptation The Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections adapt to your performance. The first section in each measure (Verbal and Quantitative) is of average difficulty. The second section's difficulty level is based on your performance in the first section. For instance, if you excel in the first Quantitative Reasoning section, the second one will be more challenging. The scores for these sections are determined by both the number of correct answers and the difficulty of the questions.
Test Design Features The GRE General Test's advanced adaptive design offers flexibility within sections. Key features include:
Eligibility Criteria
The GRE Exam does not impose any specific eligibility requirements for candidates. The test is open to individuals from all backgrounds without age restrictions or mandatory educational qualifications for GRE 2024. Conducted by ETS, the GRE General Test is a widely recognized assessment for admission to graduate programs, such as MS and MBA, worldwide. Students aiming to pursue graduate studies abroad are required to take the GRE.
There are no specific educational prerequisites for taking the GRE, making it accessible to all interested candidates. However, since the GRE is primarily used for master’s degree admissions, it is generally expected that candidates hold an undergraduate degree in a related field.
Age Requirement
There is no upper age limit set by universities abroad or by ETS, the GRE's conducting body. Therefore, candidates of any age can register for the GRE exam.
There is no mandatory qualification needed to take the GRE exam. However, since the GRE is an assessment for admission to graduate courses, candidates are usually expected to have completed their undergraduate programs. It’s important to note that not all programs and universities require a GRE score for graduate admissions; whether it’s needed depends on the specific university and program.
ID Requirements for GRE 2024
Currently, only original, valid Indian passports with your name, photograph, and signature are accepted as primary ID for GRE registration and identification at the test center. No other documents are accepted.
GAP Years
Taking a gap year or two to prepare for competitive exams or to plan for studying abroad does not affect eligibility to take the GRE exam.
Re-attempts
According to the ETS website, candidates can take the GRE exam up to five times within a rolling year, with at least a 21-day gap between attempts. This gap can be used to improve preparation.
Accommodations for GRE 2024
Candidates who need special accommodations during the test must request these before registering. ETS will review the request, and if approved, candidates can proceed with booking their GRE test.
Nationality Requirements
There are no nationality restrictions for taking the GRE exam; it is open to candidates of all nationalities.
GRE Home Edition
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ETS introduced the GRE at Home option, allowing candidates to take the exam from their homes. To be eligible, candidates must meet specific system requirements outlined by ETS, such as:
System Requirements for GRE at Home:
Candidates must also install the ETS Secure Test Browser and run a ProctorU Equipment Check before test day to ensure everything is in order.
Environment and Testing Space for GRE at Home:
Clothing and Appearance Requirements:
Note-taking Materials:
Test Center Guidelines:
Candidates must carry their own face masks and hand sanitizers to the test center to meet GRE eligibility requirements.