GRE Exam 2025
GRE 2025 Exam Guide
Introduction
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools in the United States and around the world. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE is designed to measure the verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills that are important for success in graduate school. The GRE is widely accepted by various graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in fields such as business, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
Exam Structure
1. Format
- Type: Computer-based (with a paper-based option in some locations)
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes
- Sections: 3 main sections with an unscored section
2. Sections Breakdown
-
Verbal Reasoning:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Questions: 40 total (2 sections of 20 questions each)
- Content: Reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.
-
Quantitative Reasoning:
- Duration: 70 minutes
- Questions: 40 total (2 sections of 20 questions each)
- Content: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
-
Analytical Writing:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Tasks: 2 tasks (Analyze an Issue and Analyze an Argument)
- Content: Critical thinking and analytical writing skills.
3. Scoring System
- Total Score Range: 260-340 (combined from Verbal and Quantitative sections)
- Section Scores:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130-170
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130-170
- Analytical Writing Score: 0-6 (in half-point increments)
Important Dates (2025)
1. Test Dates
- GRE is offered year-round at various test centers.
- Specific dates may vary by location; check the ETS website for availability.
2. Registration Deadlines
- Typically, registration can be completed up to 4 days before the test date.
- Early registration is recommended to secure preferred test dates and locations.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: No minimum/maximum age requirement.
- Education: No formal prerequisites, but it is generally taken by individuals seeking admission to graduate programs.
Application Process
1. Registration Steps
- Create an ETS account on the official GRE website.
- Select a test date and location.
- Pay the registration fee.
- Print your admission ticket.
2. Fees (2025)
- Basic Test Fee: Approximately $205
- Additional Score Reports: $27 each
- Changing Test Center: $50
- Rescheduling Fee: $50
Preparation Strategies
1. Recommended Timeline
- 2-3 months of preparation is typical for most test-takers.
- Aim for 10-15 hours of study per week.
2. Study Resources
- Official GRE website (ETS) for practice materials.
- GRE Prep Books (e.g., from ETS, Manhattan Prep, Kaplan).
- Online courses and practice tests.
3. Practice Tests
- Take at least 2-3 full-length practice tests under timed conditions.
- Review answers thoroughly to identify strengths and weaknesses.
Test Day Procedures
1. What to Bring
- Admission ticket (printed from the ETS website).
- Valid photo ID (government-issued).
- Acceptable calculator (for the Quantitative section, if applicable).
2. Prohibited Items
- Electronic devices (phones, smartwatches).
- Notes or books.
- Personal items that may cause distractions.
Score Reporting
1. Timeline
- Scores for the Verbal and Quantitative sections are typically available within 10-15 days after the test date.
- Analytical Writing scores are available within 1-2 weeks after the other scores.
2. Score Reporting Options
- You can send your scores to up to four graduate programs for free on test day.
- Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.
Key Differences from Other Tests
- The GRE includes a unique Analytical Writing section.
- It is more focused on critical thinking and reasoning skills compared to other standardized tests like the GMAT.
- The GRE allows for a "ScoreSelect" option, enabling test-takers to choose which scores to send to schools.
Official Resources
- Website: ets.org/gre
- Customer Service: 1-866-473-4373 (U.S.) or +1-609-771-7670 (International)
GRE 2025 FAQ
1. What is the GRE?
The GRE is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate schools. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
2. Who should take the GRE?
The GRE is typically taken by individuals applying to graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.
3. How is the GRE structured?
The GRE consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The total test duration is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
4. What is the scoring scale for the GRE?
The GRE is scored on a scale of 260 to 340 for the Verbal and Quantitative sections combined, with each section scored from 130 to 170. The Analytical Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6.
5. How do I register for the GRE?
You can register for the GRE online through the ETS website. You will need to create an account, select a test date and location, and pay the registration fee.