What is GRE Exam: When It Is, Where to Apply, and How to Ace It?

If you're thinking about getting your master's or doctorate abroad, you've probably heard of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE full form). You can measure your skills in verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and analytical writing by taking the Graduate Record Examination. The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the same organization responsible for the TOEFL and SAT, also manages the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). In the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Europe, the GRE is accepted by a wide variety of graduate and business schools. Taking the GRE can help you show that you are prepared for graduate school in your field of study. The purpose, structure, registration, dates, fees, syllabus, scoring, and study tips of the GRE are all covered in this comprehensive guide.

What is the GRE Test?

The GRE or Graduate Record Examination can be taken on a computer or on paper, and it assesses your skills in verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and analytical writing. The verbal reasoning section of the test evaluates your critical thinking skills, vocabulary, and sentence analysis/deduction abilities. Problem-solving skills using elementary mathematics (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis) are evaluated in the quantitative reasoning section. In the analytical writing section, you'll be tested on how well you can write your ideas on paper.

The GRE has a General Test and Subject Tests. most master's and doctoral students take the GRE General Test. Some applicants take GRE Subject Tests in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, psychology, and literature to demonstrate their expertise in a specific field.

What is GRE Exam Used For? Exploring the Benefits and Importance

Graduate and business school admissions worldwide use the GRE exam. Some benefits of the GRE exam include:

• By demonstrating your academic potential, it can boost your chances of admission.
• It can distinguish you from applicants with similar grades and qualifications but lower GRE scores.
• It can help you get merit-based scholarships or financial aid.
• It improves critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, preparing you for graduate school.
• It lets you apply to multiple GRE-accepting programs without taking multiple tests.

All About GRE Exam: The Structure 

Computer-based or paper-based GRE tests have different formats. The following table compares them:

Without breaks or instructions, the computer-based GRE takes 3 hours and 45 minutes. The paper-based GRE takes 3.5 hours, including instructions and breaks.

The computer-based GRE includes unscored and research sections that aren't factored into your final score but are used for research and test development by Educational Testing Service or ETS. Since you have no idea which parts are for scoring and which are for research, you should treat them all equally. The order of the research and unscored writing assignments after the analytical writing assignment is flexible.

The paper-based GRE tests analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning in order. Following analytical writing, there will be a 10-minute break and then a 1-minute break.

Suggested: GRE Exam Format Explained

GRE Exam 2023: Important Dates

• ETS has not announced 2023 GRE test dates, but they will likely be similar to previous years. The computerized GRE General Test and Subject Test are available year-round. You must register two days before the computer-based GRE exam.
• Paper-based GRE General and Subject Tests are only offered in September, October, April, and May. Register for the paper GRE at least six weeks before your desired test date, either online or by mail.
• ETS's website lists GRE dates and locations. Change or cancel your GRE registration for $50 until four days before your test date.

How to Register for GRE Exam 2023

Before taking the GRE, you must create an ETS account and provide personal and academic information. Choose your testing format, day, place, and results recipient. Online, phone or mail registration is available for the GRE.

• GRE General Test registration is $220 worldwide, except in India, where it's $228 (approx. 18,857 INR). GRE Subject Test registration costs $150 ( approx. 1292 INR) worldwide. Credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, electronic checks, money orders, and vouchers are accepted.
• GRE testing centers are located worldwide. Enter your address or country on the ETS website to find a local GRE testing center. With a reliable computer and a quiet space, you can take the GRE at home.

GRE Assessment Criteria

Common Challenges Faced in the GRE Exam and How to Overcome Them

Preparing, practicing, and strategizing for the GRE is difficult. GRE test-takers often face several problems, such as:

• Time Management

Each GRE section has a time limit, and you must finish all questions before the clock runs out. Skipping a question or taking too long on one could prevent you from finishing the section or reviewing your answers. Take timed tests and learn how to pace yourself to overcome this obstacle. The faster and more accurately you answer test questions, the higher your score.

• Vocabulary

GRE verbal reasoning tests reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence. The GRE test includes many academic and complex words you may not use daily. Read widely across genres and subjects to overcome this obstacle. You should also study the definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and proper usage of GRE vocabulary.

• Math Concepts

The GRE's quantitative reasoning section tests math skills in basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The GRE doesn't test your knowledge of advanced math, but it does test how well you can use basic math to solve problems. Prepare for this challenge by reviewing GRE math topics and working on sample problems of varying difficulty. Learn some shortcuts to save time and avoid mistakes.

Suggested: Best Books for GRE

Conclusion

The GRE is required for foreign master's and doctorate programs. It can get you into top universities and advance your career. Passing the GRE requires extensive study, practice, and strategy. This article covers all aspects of the GRE and its preparation. Along with the use of books, the help of Yocket's counsellors, such as online courses, and mock exams, can provide additional guidance  and assistance to ease your study abroad journey. You can definitely succeed if you put in proper time, effort, and self-confidence.