Retaking the GRE: Important Tips & Factors to Consider

Taking the GRE is a significant step for graduate school hopefuls. You invested time and energy into studying, but maybe the test-day result wasn’t what you were hoping for. Whether you’re slightly off target or significantly below your goal, the question arises: should you retake the GRE?

This blog shares 7 key considerations to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore different scenarios you might be facing, weigh the pros and cons of retaking the GRE in each case, and provide you with the knowledge you need to chart the best course of action for your graduate school journey.

Can You Retake the GRE?

Yes, you can retake the GRE if you feel your initial score isn’t competitive enough for your target schools. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) allows for retakes within a specific window. You can take the GRE up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, with a minimum of 21 days in between each attempt. This flexibility allows you to improve your score and potentially strengthen your graduate school application.

Factors to Consider Before You Retake the GRE

The decision to retake the GRE deserves careful consideration. Here are some key factors to weigh before retaking the GRE:

1. Your initial score and target schools

Analyse your first GRE score. If it falls significantly short of the average GRE scores for your target graduate programs, a retake might be necessary to stay competitive. On the other hand, if your score is within GRE score range, especially for less competitive programs, retaking might not be essential.

2. Exam performance breakdown

Beyond the total score, go through your performance on each section (Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning). Did you score much lower in one section compared to the other? This could indicate a need to focus your preparation efforts on that specific area for a retake.

3. Time constraints and resources

Retaking the GRE requires a time commitment for studying and another test registration fee. Consider if you have the time and financial resources to dedicate to a retake before the application deadlines.

Suggested: GRE Self-Preparation

4. Reasons for the initial score

Reflect on your experience during the first GRE exam. Were there external factors that impacted your performance, such as test anxiety or illness? If so, addressing those issues can significantly improve your score on a retake. On the other hand, if your score accurately reflects your current knowledge base, consider if additional studying would be enough to reach your target score.

5. Alternatives to retaking

Explore other application materials that might show your strengths and potentially offset a less-than-ideal GRE score. This could include strong essays, impressive letters of recommendation, or relevant work experience.

Also read: When to Start Preparing for the GRE?

7 Tips for Retaking the GRE

1. Strategies and considerations

Taking the GRE multiple times won’t automatically hurt your application. In fact, the ETS introduced ScoreSelect last year. This feature allows you to choose which GRE scores you send to graduate programs. So, if you take the test three times, you can pick the best score report to send to your chosen programs.

2. Consider your chances of improvement

Retaking the GRE requires investment in terms of finances, time spent studying, and managing test-day stress. Evaluate your current score and target programs. If you’re aiming for a program requiring a minimum GRE score of 150 in both verbal and quantitative sections and your current scores are in the mid-150s, retaking might not provide much benefit. Remember that many programs consider factors like research experience and your personal statement alongside GRE scores.

3. Maximise your score

If GRE scholarships are offered based on high GRE scores in your programs of interest, retaking can be worthwhile. Focus on your preparation by taking thorough practice tests and analysing your performance. Your practice test scores can give you a good idea of what to expect on the actual GRE.

4. Selective sending with ScoreSelect

While ScoreSelect lets you send your best scores, it doesn’t allow selective reporting within a single test date. For instance, if you score exceptionally well in quantitative reasoning but poorly in verbal reasoning, don’t neglect the verbal section on a retake, hoping to send only your quantitative score. Schools will see your entire score for each test date. Approach both sections seriously during each attempt.

Also read: How Many Mock Tests Should You Take Before the GRE?

5. Targeted practice

Once you have analysed your practice tests, identify your weaknesses. Dedicating focused study time to these areas will lead to greater improvement. For example, if you struggle with specific GRE vocabulary words or complex reading comprehension passages, concentrate on vocabulary-building exercises and practice reading dense academic materials.

6. Simulate test-day conditions

The GRE can be a stressful experience. To manage test-day anxiety and improve performance on a retake, simulate the actual test environment during practice sessions. Set aside a quiet space, time yourself, and take GRE practice tests under timed conditions. This will help you get accustomed to the pressure of the real exam.

7. Expand your skill set

Beyond focusing solely on GRE content, consider expanding your skill set in ways that complement your academic goals. This can show well-roundedness and a commitment to your field of study. For instance, if you’re applying to a data science program, take online courses or attend workshops on data analysis tools like Python or R. This strengthens your application and adds valuable skills you can leverage in your future studies.

From the Desk of Yocket

Retaking the GRE can be a strategic decision to boost your graduate school application. Carefully consider your current score and target programs. If your initial score falls short of the average GRE score for your desired programs, a retake might be necessary to stay competitive. However, if your score is already on the cusp of acceptability, the time and financial investment of a retake might not be worthwhile. Remember that many programs consider a holistic application, including your research experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statement, along with the GRE score.

Retaking the GRE can also be a smart move if scholarships are heavily tied to GRE scores in your field of interest. By strategically retaking the test and focusing on areas needing improvement through practice tests, you can potentially raise your score and increase your scholarship’s competitiveness. Just remember that graduate schools often look for improvement over time. Even if your final score doesn’t reach the absolute top percentiles, a significant increase from your initial attempt can show your dedication and ability to learn, making your application even stronger. Utilizing resources like Yocket Prep+ can further enhance your preparation and increase your chances of achieving a higher score.