GRE
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test used as an admissions requirement for many M.A., Ph.D, and JD programs. The scoring on the GRE is computer adaptive, meaning that it increases in difficulty as the students answer questions correctly. Click here to view the MBA programs that accept the GRE as an alternative to the GMAT. Click here to see the select law programs that accept the GRE as an alternative to the LSAT.
GRE Format and Content:
| Sections | GRE |
| Total Testing Time | 1 hour, 58 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 sections) | 27 Questions total / 41 minutes total
Content: Sentence equivalence, reading comprehension, text completions |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections) | 27 Questions total / 47 minutes total
Content: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data analysis |
| Analytical Writing | 1 Essay task / 30 minutes per task
Content: Analyze an issue |
| Experimental Section | N/A |
The GRE General Test can be taken two ways. For in-person testing at specific test-sites, test dates are flexible throughout the year. Registration is required approximately one month prior to a student’s intended test date. Students are eligible to take the test every 21 days, up to five times within a year timeframe. Click here for more information about test centers and dates.
At-home administrations are also available seven days a week, with appointments available as early as 24 hours after you register. Click here for more information about the at-home GRE.
The Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are each scaled from 130 to 170, increasing in 1-point increments. The Analytical writing section offers a single score on a 0-6, in half point increments, comprising an average of the two essays (for the current exam). The new, shorter GRE will use the same score scale as the existing exam. Click here for more information on how the GRE is scored.
The GRE is a computer adaptive exam, meaning the questions increase in difficulty as the student achieves more correct answers.
Score review & cancellation:
The GRE offers ScoreSelect, meaning that students can send whichever scores they would like graduate schools to see.
On test day, students are able to view their scores at the test center. There, they can decide not to send their scores, to send select scores to schools, or to send all GRE scores to their schools of choice. After test day, for a fee, students can send test scores to schools consisting of either just the most recent scores, all scores, or any scores — multiple, but not all, test administrations.
In New York State, students are able to purchase the Question-and-Answer Review Service for a US $50 fee, on select test dates. To schedule an appointment, contact GRE services. Click here for more information about the Question-and-Answer Review.
GRE scores are valid for up to five years.
Students are able to apply for accommodations for the following accessibility features:
- Extended time (50%; 100%)
- Extra breaks
- Screen magnification
- Selectable colors
- Screen reader and refreshable braille compatibility
What are GRE Subject Tests?
The GRE Subject Tests are optional tests that some prospective graduate school applicants take. These tests are administered three times per year: September, October, and April. Starting in September 2023, subject tests for Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology will be delivered via computer. Click here for more information about the GRE Subject Tests.
