The GRE full form is Graduate Record Examination. It is a standardized test conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) for students who want to pursue postgraduate or doctoral programs abroad. GRE is accepted by thousands of universities across the world, especially in countries like the US, Canada, and the UK.
There are 2 types of GRE tests: the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. The GRE General Test measures skills in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The GRE Subject Test assesses knowledge in specific subjects such as Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology. While the General Test assesses your suitability for MBA, MS, and MA programs abroad, the Subject Tests assess if you are fit for specialization courses in Physics, Maths, and Psychology.
The Verbal and Quantitative sections of the General test are scored on a 130 - 170 scale, while the Analytical Writing section is scored on a 0 to 6 scale. GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. The exam fee in India for the General Test is ₹22,000, while for the Subject Tests, it is ₹14,500. The exam is offered throughout the year in a computer-based format at authorized test centers around the world.
Accepted by top universities like Stanford, Harvard, and Oxford, the GRE remains one of the most widely recognized exams for graduate and professional admissions.
Learn More About the GRE Exam Here
- What is the Full Form of GRE?
- GRE Exam Pattern & Syllabus
2.1 GRE General Test Pattern & Syllabus
2.2 GRE Subject Test Pattern & Syllabus
- GRE Eligibility Criteria
- GRE Exam Dates & Registration Process
4.1 GRE Exam Dates
- GRE Scores and How They Are Used
5.1 How Universities Use GRE Scores?
- GRE Preparation Tips
- FAQs
What is the Full Form of GRE?
The full form of GRE is Graduate Record Examination. It is a standardized test conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) for students who plan to pursue postgraduate, MBA, or doctoral programs abroad. GRE acts as a gateway for students aiming to study abroad, helping them demonstrate their academic skills beyond their university grades.
The Graduate Record Examination exam is of 2 types - General and Subject Tests.
- The GRE General Test measures skills that are essential for success in most graduate-level programs.
- The GRE Subject Test evaluates knowledge in specific academic subjects, including Physics, Maths, and Psychology.
The table below gives a comparison between the GRE General and Subject Tests:
| Feature | GRE General Test | GRE Subject Test |
|---|---|---|
| Conducted By | ETS | ETS |
| Purpose | Tests general analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills | Tests knowledge in a specific subject area (Physics, Maths, and Psychology) |
| Sections | 3 - Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing | One subject-specific section |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-based | Computer-based |
| Exam Fee in India | ₹22,000 | ₹14,500 |
| Exam Dates | Available throughout the year | Conducted 3 times a year in September, October, and April |
| Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours and 50 minutes for Maths2 hours for Psychology and Physics |
| Score Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
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GRE Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The GRE exam pattern is designed to measure skills that are important for graduate-level studies, such as reasoning, analysis, and communication. The pattern differs slightly for the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test.
GRE General Test Pattern & Syllabus
The GRE General Test is a computer-based exam with 3 main sections to be completed in 2 hours. Each section tests a different skill area.
| Section | Number of Tasks/Questions | Topics | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 essay task | “Analyze an Issue” essay writing | 30 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 2 sub-sections (27 questions in total) | Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence | 41 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 2 sub-sections (27 questions in total) | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Data Analysis | 47 minutes |
Learn About: GRE Score Validity
GRE Subject Test Pattern & Syllabus
The GRE Subject Test focuses on a single subject. Each test contains multiple-choice questions based on undergraduate-level coursework. Each Subject Test is scored on a 200 to 990 scale in 10-point increments.
| Subject | Number of Questions | Topics | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maths | 66 | Calculus, algebra, and additional topics | 2 hours and 50 minutes |
| Physics | 70 | Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Optics and Wave Phenomena, Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, Atomic Physics, Special Relativity, Laboratory Methods, Specialized Topics | 2 hours |
| Psychology | 144 | Biological, Cognitive, Social, Developmental, Clinical, Measurement, Methodology | 2 hours |
Read Full GRE Syllabus
GRE Eligibility Criteria
The GRE exam is open to students from all academic backgrounds who want to pursue postgraduate or doctoral programs abroad. ETS, the conducting body, does not set any strict eligibility criteria based on age, nationality, or academic degree.
Key points about GRE eligibility:
- No specific degree requirement: Graduates or final-year students from any field can appear.
- No age limit: Candidates of any age can take the test.
- No work experience required: Unlike some exams, GRE does not require professional experience.
- Frequency of attempts: A candidate can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period.
Note: While ETS does not restrict eligibility, individual universities may have their own requirements regarding academic qualifications, minimum scores, or other criteria. You should always check the admission requirements of the universities you are applying to.
GRE Exam Dates & Registration Process
The GRE exam is conducted throughout the year in a computer-based format at authorized test centers worldwide. This allows candidates to choose a convenient date for their test based on availability.
GRE Exam Dates
- The GRE General Test is available all year round, depending on the availability of seats at test centers.
- The GRE Subject Test is offered 3 times a year, in September, October, and April.
- ETS recommends that candidates register early to secure their preferred date and test center.
| Check out the GRE exam dates for 2025, 2026 now to register early. |
GRE Registration Process
You can register for the GRE through the official ETS website. The process is simple and can be completed online.
Step-by-step registration process:
- Create an ETS account: Sign up on the official ETS GRE website.
- Choose test type: Select either the GRE General Test or a GRE Subject Test.
- Select test date and center: Pick a convenient date and location from available options.
- Provide personal information: Fill in details like name, ID, and contact information.
- Pay exam fee: Complete payment using a valid credit/debit card or other accepted modes.
- Receive confirmation: ETS will send a confirmation email with the test details.
Note:
- You can cancel or reschedule your test, but fees may apply.
- It is important to carry a valid photo ID (passport) on the test day for verification.
- Always check the ETS website for the most recent updates on dates, fees, and policies.
Also Check: GRE Requirements
GRE Scores and How They Are Used
The GRE scores help universities assess a candidate’s academic skills and readiness for graduate-level study. Scores are reported separately for each section of the exam.
The table below gives the breakdown of the GRE scoring pattern:
| Section | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 130 - 170 (1-point increments) |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 130 - 170 (1-point increments) |
| Analytical Writing | 0 - 6 (half-point increments) |
- Score Validity: GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
- Score Sending: Candidates can send scores to up to 4 universities for free on test day. Additional score reports require a fee (₹2,900 per report).
Important Points About GRE Scores:
- A good GRE score improves chances of admission but does not guarantee it.
- Score requirements differ by university and program.
- GRE Subject Tests are scored from 200 - 990.
How Universities Use GRE Scores?
Universities use GRE scores in combination with other application documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Key uses include:
- Admission Decisions: Helps compare applicants from different educational backgrounds.
- GRE Scholarships: Some universities use GRE scores to determine eligibility for financial aid.
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GRE Preparation Tips
Preparing for the GRE requires planning, practice, and focus. Here are some tips to help candidates achieve better scores:
- Know the Exam: Learn the GRE format, sections, and question types.
- Plan Your Study: Make a daily or weekly schedule. Focus more on weak areas.
- Practice Often: Do past papers and practice tests. Check your mistakes and improve.
- Build Vocabulary: Read daily and learn new words.
Also Read
- Revise Math Basics: Practice arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data problems.
- Write Essays: Practice writing clear, well-structured essays in 30 minutes.
- Stay Healthy & Consistent: Take breaks, sleep well, and eat healthy.
Tip: Regular practice and smart planning lead to better GRE scores.
Read More: GRE Preparation Tips
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a globally recognized test accepted by thousands of universities in the US, Canada, the UK, and Europe. With scores valid for 5 years, it helps universities evaluate your skills in verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing. Proper preparation, understanding the exam pattern, and regular practice can significantly improve your chances of securing admission and scholarships abroad.
Key Summary
- The GRE is a global exam for students applying to postgraduate and doctoral programs abroad.
- It measures verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills essential for graduate study.
- The General Test checks overall aptitude; the Subject Test focuses on specific subjects like Maths, Physics, and Psychology.
- Scores remain valid for 5 years and are used by universities for admissions and scholarships.
- With proper preparation and planning, candidates can improve their performance and enhance their chances of admission to top universities worldwide.
FAQs
Ques. What is the full form of GRE?
Ans. The full form of GRE is Graduate Record Examination. It is a standardized test conducted by ETS for students seeking admission to postgraduate or doctoral programs abroad.
Ques. What are the types of GRE exams?
Ans. There are 2 types: the GRE General Test, which evaluates verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills, and the GRE Subject Test, which assesses knowledge in specific subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
Ques. How long are GRE scores valid?
Ans. GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. Candidates can report their scores to universities within this period.
Ques. Can anyone take the GRE?
Ans. Yes. There is no age, nationality, or degree restriction. Graduates or final-year students from any field can appear for the exam.
Ques. How often can I take the GRE?
Ans. You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period.
Ques. Where is the GRE accepted?
Ans. The GRE is accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, including the US, Canada, the UK, and European countries, for admission to postgraduate, MBA, and doctoral programs.
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