If you’re planning to study at a graduate school in the United States or other countries, chances are you’ve heard about the GRE exam. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is an important standardized test that many universities require for admission into graduate and business programs. But if you’re new to the concept or feeling overwhelmed by the idea of preparing for it, don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the GRE exam—especially for international students like you.
What is the GRE Exam?
The GRE exam is a standardized test that evaluates your readiness for graduate-level education. It’s accepted by thousands of graduate schools, business schools, and fellowship programs around the world. The exam is designed to measure a range of skills, including your ability to think critically, solve problems, and analyze information.
The test is divided into three main sections:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
These sections are designed to assess how well you can interpret, reason, and solve problems in real-world academic settings.
Why is the GRE Important for International Students?
For international students, the GRE can be a vital part of the application process. Many top universities and programs, especially in the United States, require GRE scores for admission. Here’s why the GRE matters:
- University Admission: Many graduate programs use GRE scores as a key factor in selecting applicants. High scores can increase your chances of acceptance into competitive programs.
- Scholarships and Funding: Some scholarships and fellowships also use GRE scores to determine eligibility, so achieving a high score can improve your chances of securing financial support for your studies.
- Proving Academic Ability: For students whose academic records may not fully reflect their potential (such as those from non-traditional backgrounds or with different grading systems), the GRE provides an additional way to demonstrate their academic capabilities.
The Structure of the GRE Exam
Understanding the test format is essential for your preparation. Here’s an overview of the GRE exam structure:
| Section | Description | Duration | Scoring Range |
| Verbal Reasoning | Tests your ability to analyze written material, draw conclusions, and understand the meaning of words and sentences. | 60 minutes | 130–170 (scaled score) |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Assesses your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information. It involves solving math problems and interpreting data. | 70 minutes | 130–170 (scaled score) |
| Analytical Writing | Measures your ability to articulate complex ideas, construct logical arguments, and write clearly. | 60 minutes | 0–6 (score based on two tasks) |
| Unscored or Research Section | This section doesn’t count toward your score but is used to help ETS test new questions. | 35 minutes (varies) | No score (experimental) |
Total Duration
The test takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete, including breaks.
How to Register for the GRE Exam
The GRE exam is offered year-round at designated test centers worldwide. Here’s how you can register for the exam:
- Visit the Official ETS Website: Go to the ETS GRE registration page and create an account.
- Select Your Test Center: Choose a convenient test center near your location.
- Pick a Date: Choose a date for your exam. It’s best to schedule it in advance to ensure availability.
- Pay the Registration Fee: The GRE registration fee for international students is approximately $205 USD, but the cost may vary depending on your location.
- Prepare: Once you’ve registered, it’s time to start studying and preparing for the exam!
How is the GRE Scored?
Your GRE scores are based on your performance in the Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections. The scores are calculated as follows:
- Verbal and Quantitative Sections: Each of these sections is scored on a scale from 130 to 170. The scores are reported in one-point increments.
- Analytical Writing: This section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, with half-point increments.
In total, the highest possible GRE score is 340 (170 for Verbal + 170 for Quantitative), while the lowest score is 260. Keep in mind that your scores may vary depending on the difficulty of the test and your performance on each section.
GRE Test Dates and Frequency
Unlike some other exams, the GRE is available year-round, so you can choose the test date that works best for you. Here’s a breakdown of the test schedule:
| Test Dates | Availability |
| Year-Round | Available throughout the year at designated test centers. Choose from numerous test dates. |
Keep in mind that it’s a good idea to plan your exam date well in advance to leave enough time for preparation.
Preparing for the GRE
Preparing for the GRE can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, you can conquer it! Here are some key tips to get you started:
1. Create a Study Plan
Start by breaking down your study schedule into manageable chunks. Plan for at least 3-6 months of preparation, depending on your current skill level.
2. Take Practice Tests
Taking practice tests helps you familiarize yourself with the test format and identify your strengths and weaknesses. It also allows you to track your progress over time.
3. Focus on Your Weak Areas
If you struggle with certain sections (like math or verbal reasoning), spend extra time on those areas. Online prep courses, books, and tutors can be helpful.
4. Take Advantage of Resources
Many free resources are available, including GRE prep books, online courses, and apps. ETS also provides an official GRE prep software for practice.
Cost of the GRE Exam
For international students, the cost of taking the GRE exam can add up when considering registration fees, prep materials, and potential retakes. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
| Cost | Amount (USD) |
| GRE Registration Fee | $205 (varies by region) |
| Score Reporting | $27 per recipient |
| Additional Score Reports | $27 each |
| Rescheduling Fee | $50 |
| Score Review (Analytical Writing) | $60 |
Important Tips for International Students
- Language Proficiency: Ensure that you are comfortable with the language and academic vocabulary tested on the GRE. It may be different from the English you use daily.
- Time Zone Consideration: Check the time zone of your test center and plan accordingly.
- Visa Requirements: Some graduate programs require the GRE for student visa purposes, so double-check requirements with your university.
Conclusion
The GRE exam is a vital part of your graduate school application process, and understanding its format and requirements can make the journey less stressful. Whether you’re aiming for top universities in the U.S., Canada, or other countries, a strong GRE score can open doors to your dream graduate program.
With a solid study plan, preparation, and the right resources, you’ll be ready to tackle the GRE and achieve success. Good luck on your journey toward higher education abroad!