Good GRE Score: How to Improve Your GRE Score

You’ve aced your undergrad exams, spent countless hours researching potential programs,  and finally narrowed down your Master’s program. But amid all the late-night study sessions, application deadlines, and endless GRE practice tests, an important question remains: What is a good GRE score? Is there a certain score range that guarantees admissions to your target schools?

In this blog, we’ll understand what a good GRE score is. We’ll also discuss what makes a strong score, explore how percentiles play a role, and highlight the importance of considering your target schools. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of setting your personal GRE goals and approaching the test with confidence.

What is a Good GRE Score?

There’s no single good GRE score. Instead, scores are reported in percentiles, which tell you how you performed compared to other test-takers. Scoring above the 50th percentile (median) means you did better than half of all test-takers, which is a good starting point. However, many graduate programs expect above-average scores, often in at least the 75th percentile, especially in the section most relevant to your field. Simply put, the GRE score you need depends on the programs you’re applying to.

The GRE has three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing (AW). Verbal and Quant scores range from 130–170 in 1-point increments. The AW section is scored from 0–6 in half-point increments. Here are the median scores (from 2017–2020 data) to give you an idea of what’s average:

• Verbal Reasoning: 151/170

• Quantitative Reasoning: 154/170

• Analytical Writing: 4.0/6.0

What Does the GRE Percentile Mean?

Along with your scaled score, you’ll receive a percentile rank. For instance, a 160 in Quantitative Reasoning corresponds to the 70th percentile, meaning you outscored 70% of test-takers. Here’s a table that includes good GRE scores based on percentiles from individuals who took the test between 2017 and 2020.

Note: Percentiles can fluctuate slightly year-to-year, and some scores might be estimates based on available data.

Read also: GRE Sample Paper

What is a Good GRE Score Based on Your Program?

The importance of a good GRE score depends heavily on the specific graduate programs you’re applying to. Some programs have a minimum score requirement that acts as a hard cut-off for applicants. If you don’t meet this minimum score, your application won’t be considered for further review.

However, many programs don’t have a strict minimum but instead use the average GRE scores of admitted students as a benchmark. This means that even if your GRE score falls below the program’s average, it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from admission. In these cases, your GRE scores might not actively improve your chances, but they also won’t be a dealbreaker.

On the other hand, scoring at or above a program’s average on the GRE can definitely strengthen your application. While a high GRE score doesn’t guarantee admission, it shows admissions committees that your quantitative and verbal reasoning skills meet the program’s standards.

So, how do you determine a good target score for yourself? Here’s where the competitiveness of the program comes into play. Highly competitive programs will likely have higher average GRE scores because they receive applications from a larger pool of qualified students. To find out a program’s GRE expectations and competitiveness, head to the school’s official graduate admissions webpage and look for their GRE requirements section. This information will help you set a realistic and achievable target score for your GRE test.

Programs with available GRE score statistics

Many schools are transparent about the role of GRE scores in their admissions process and publish the average scores of admitted students. This information should be a crucial benchmark for your target score. Generally, aiming for scores comparable to or exceeding these averages is recommended, especially for highly competitive programs.

For instance, if you’re applying to a top MBA program like Stanford’s, simply matching the average GRE scores might not be enough. To be truly competitive, you might need to target scores even a few points higher than the average.

The same logic applies to programs with minimum GRE cutoffs. Meeting the minimum doesn’t guarantee competitiveness. If the program emphasises the importance of GRE scores, every point counts, and stronger scores will strengthen your application.

Programs with a holistic admissions approach

Some schools prioritise a holistic review of your application, placing less emphasis on specific GRE scores. In these cases, if the program provides average GRE scores, aiming around those averages can be a reasonable target. However, even for these programs, a low GRE score can still raise red flags. Don’t assume any score is acceptable; always strive to perform your best.

Programs without GRE score information

If a school doesn’t publish average GRE scores or have minimum score requirements, it likely focuses on a holistic review. However, submitting GRE scores is still recommended if the program accepts them. It’s best to contact the program directly and inquire about the role of GRE scores in their admissions process.

If no specific information is available, you can research the average GRE scores for your intended field of study. Aiming for scores around the field’s mean is a good starting point. For highly competitive programs, consider targeting scores at or above the 75th percentile for a stronger application.

Read also: GRE Score and Results

How to Improve Your GRE Score?

Scoring well on the GRE takes strategic study and focused practice. Here are some key steps to take to improve your GRE score:

Diagnose your strengths and weaknesses

Take a GRE practice test to identify areas that need improvement. Official practice materials from the ETS are the best resources for this since they mimic the actual test format.

Craft a study plan

Block out dedicated study time each day or week, and section out that time to focus on different areas. Aim for at least a few hours a day and create a schedule that works for you, be it short focused sessions or longer stretches. While a well-rounded approach is ideal, spend more time on areas that challenge you the most.

Expand your vocabulary

The GRE tests a range of GRE vocabulary. Use GRE flashcards, mnemonic devices, or other methods to learn new words and their definitions in context.

Practice with real GRE questions

Use official ETS practice materials or reputable test prep resources that provide practice problems that closely resemble the real GRE.

Take practice tests under timed conditions

Familiarise yourself with the pressure of the GRE by taking practice tests under timed conditions that mirror the actual test. This will help you develop time management skills and get comfortable with the GRE test format. However, don’t just breeze through practice tests. Analyse the questions you got wrong and understand why you missed them. This will help you avoid similar mistakes in the future.

Read also: GRE Preparation Books

From the Desk of Yocket

There isn’t one perfect answer to what constitutes a good GRE score. It depends heavily on your target graduate programs. While a score above the 50th percentile isn’t bad, aiming for the 75th percentile or higher is ideal for most competitive programs. This shows strong academic abilities that align with the expectations of rigorous graduate studies.

However, the GRE is just one component of the application package. Your research experience, GPA, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose all play a significant role. A slightly lower GRE score might not be a dealbreaker if your other credentials are exceptional. On the other hand, a stellar GRE score can’t compensate for weaker areas in your application. If the GRE is heavily weighted, prioritise achieving a competitive score. But remember, it’s a holistic evaluation, so ensure a well-rounded application that shows your potential for success in graduate school.