The GRE Test is a standardized exam that is used by many graduate schools in their admissions process. The GRE Test serves a similar function to the SAT and ACT Tests in that both are used by colleges and universities as a factor in admissions. Different institutions place varying degrees of importance on standardized tests, such as the GRE, and use them along with other factors such as GPA, class rank, community service, recommendations and extracurricular activities.
GRE Test scores range from 130 to 170 for the verbal and quantitative sections. The GRE analytical writing section is scored on a 0 to 6 scale.
GRE Test Format
The GRE Test consists of two written essays and a total of 58 questions. You are given a total of 150 minutes to complete the test. The table below lists the sections of the test in more detail.
GRE Test Sections
| Section |
Time Limit |
Number of Questions |
Summary |
| GRE Analytical Writing |
45 minutes (issue task) |
1 Issue Task 1 Argument Task |
Evaluates your ability to articulate and support complex ideas, examine claims and accompanying evidence, and appropriately utilize the elements of standard written English. |
| GRE Verbal | 30 minutes per section |
Two Sections 20 questions per section |
Evaluates your verbal reasoning and comprehension. You will be asked to analyze and evaluate written material, including synthesizing information, analyzing relationships among sentence components, and recognizing relationships between words and concepts. |
| GRE Quantitative | 35 minutes per section |
Two Sections 20 questions per section |
Covers basic mathematical concepts that are typical for a college graduate. You will be tested on:arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data analysis. You will be assessed on quantitative reasoning. |
GRE Subject Tests
The GRE Subject Tests are designed for graduate school applicants that have a thorough background or undergrad major in a covered area. There are currently seven GRE subject tests:
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Literature in English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
GRE General Test Sections
The GRE General Test contains three separate test areas: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning. The details of these sections are listed below.
Analytical Writing
The Analytical Writing section requires a student to write two separate analyses - "Analyze an Issue" and "Analyze an Argument". Students are given 30 minutes for each task. The purpose of the Analytical Writing section is to assess how a student can provide a focused response to a given writing prompt. Writing will be assessed on:
- Clear and effective presentation of complex ideas
- Use of relevant examples and reasons that support central argument
- Demonstration of appropriate English grammar
- Presentation of a focused and well-reasoned discussion
- Analysis of claims and accompanying evidence
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning test contains two separate sections. Each section contains 20 questions with a 30 minute time limit per section. The intent of the Verbal Reasoning section is to assess a student's ability to comprehend written passages and apply reasoning skills. The main skills evaluated include:
- Understanding of words, phrases and passages. Understanding of relationships among concepts.
- Determining important points and distinguishing important concepts from minor or irrelevant points
- Drawing conclusions and reasoning from incomplete information.
- Identifying an author's perspective and assumptions.
Quantitative Reasoning
The Quantitative Reasoning test contains two separate sections. Each section contains 20 questions with a 35 minute time limit per section. The Quantitative Reasoning section measures a student's ability to:
- Understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information
- Solve complex problems using various mathematical models
- Utilize basic mathematical skills related to arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data interpretation
To improve your scores, please try our Free GRE Practice Tests.
