What is a Good GRE Score in 2025?

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GRE Scoring Pattern

To have a deep understanding of ‘what is a good GRE score out of 340?’ the method of ‘how the GRE is scored?’ should be explained. GRE score distribution is categorized as:

The GRE score is the composite score of GRE verbal and GRE quant out of 340. Now, the GRE analytical writing section is calculated in a distinctive way, and it is also not as vital as the other two. GRE analytical writing section is calculated on a GRE score scale of 0.0 – 6.0 and in half-point increments.

There are points to be noted about the GRE scores:

• Grad schools generally focus on a sectional GRE score – either verbal or quantitative.
• Grad schools only concentrate on the sectional score related to the field of study that he test taker is opting for.
• For instance, a grad school will be inclined more toward a candidate’s GRE quantitative score who is applying for engineering than the verbal.

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GRE Score Percentile

There is a tendency among test takers to look for the total GRE score out of 340, but that is not the ultimate way to find if it is a good GRE score. The finest way is to find through GRE score percentiles. GRE percentiles state the percentage of candidates the test-taker performed better than. The greater the GRE percentile, the better your performance in that section. GRE is not scored on a total of 340 in an absolute manner and therefore, it is not possible to find the percentiles of the GRE as a whole.

Note: Anything above a GRE percentile of 70th is considered sober, as that states you scored better than 50% of the other test-takers.

The following table will explain the GRE score to percentile conversion:

It is quite comprehensible from the above table that GRE verbal scores are lower on the same percentile level than GRE quant scores. This happens because most of the test takers score higher in the quant section, making it a cutthroat competition.

Points studied from the above table:

• ‘What is a good GRE score out of 340?’ depends solely on the sectional score
• A 162 GRE score means the 90th percentile in verbal,
• Whereas, the same score is equal to the 80th percentile in quant

Coming to the GRE analytical writing section, though it is not equally crucial as the other two, it is always recommended to achieve a proper score in this section too.

Also Read

GRE Score Chart

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How to Determine a Good GRE Score?

The best way to determine ‘what is a good GRE score out of 340?’ is to figure out which program you’re applying to and in which grad school, by following the steps:

Step 1: Design a Chart

Make a chart comprising the list of preferred universities, their requirements, and GRE verbal and quant scores. It will appear somewhat like:

Step 2: Research Information

In this step, find out the required information, like:

• Average scores: This includes the GRE scores of the previously admitted applicant.
• Recommended scores: The scores advised by the schools to be maintained to secure admission
• Minimum required scores: The lowest possible GRE scores one can get to apply to that program

Where to find the information about the scores:

• University webpage in the admission/program pages
• Never rely on the unofficial website
• If you’re not getting average scores, search for recommended or minimum scores

Step 3: Fill out the Chart

After searching for all the information, it may happen that the university has published the average scores and a few have published percentiles.

Step 4: Calculate GRE scores

Now, when the test taker has all the information, find out the highest GRE score for both quant and verbal. Start preparing for GRE now so that you can achieve that score. Once you achieve that score, applying to other grad schools will also become easier.

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What is a Good GRE Score for Top Universities?

A good GRE score for top universities varies depending on the program’s competitiveness and the university’s admission standards. Generally, elite institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Oxford expect scores in the 320 to 330 range, with higher emphasis on either the Quantitative or Verbal section based on the field of study. Understanding university-specific score expectations helps you set realistic goals and strengthen your overall application profile.

Also Read

Top Universities Abroad Accepting GRE

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Tips to Achieve a Good GRE Score

Scoring well on the GRE requires a clear preparation strategy, consistent practice, and smart time management. A good GRE score is not achieved overnight—it’s the result of understanding the test format, identifying your strengths, and improving on weaker areas. Here are some tips to help you reach your target score:

• Know the Exam Pattern: Understand the sections (Verbal, Quant, Writing) and how they are scored.
• Set a Target Score: Check the average GRE scores for your dream universities and aim slightly higher.
• Make a Study Plan: Study a little every day. Give equal time to all sections.
• Take Practice Tests: Attempt mock tests regularly to check your progress and improve speed.
• Focus on Weak Areas: Find the topics you struggle with and work extra on them.
• Improve Vocabulary: Read articles and note new words to do better in the Verbal section.
• Practice Math Daily: Revise basic math topics for the Quant section.
• Work on Time Management: Don’t spend too long on one question during the test.
• Use Official Study Material: Rely on trusted GRE prep books and ETS practice papers.
• Stay Calm and Confident: A relaxed mind helps you perform your best on test day.

Also Read

• GRE Latest Pattern
• GRE Syllabus

Having a good understanding of GRE score requirements is important. You can check the university’s score requirements from the university’s official website. A good GRE score always depends on the university and program you are applying.

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