The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a standardized test used for graduate school admissions. It assesses critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills. Whether you’re planning to pursue graduate, business, or law school or simply exploring your options the GRE General Test helps showcase your potential.
With the GRE General Test, you can highlight your readiness for advanced academic programs. The test is accepted by 1300+ universities and business schools worldwide, including top institutions in India and abroad.
Download the GRE Handbook. - Contains Sample Questions.
Test content
The GRE General Test reflects the type of thinking required in today’s demanding graduate programs. It measures skills developed over time that are relevant across fields of study.
Verbal Reasoning
Measures the ability to:
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Analyze and draw conclusions from discourse, even with incomplete data
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Understand author’s perspective, assumptions, and multiple levels of meaning
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Identify major vs. minor points and summarize text
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Interpret words, sentences, and relationships among concepts
Quantitative Reasoning
Measures the ability to:
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Interpret and analyse quantitative information
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Solve problems using mathematical models
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Apply concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis
Analytical Writing
Measures the ability to:
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Articulate complex ideas clearly
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Support arguments with evidence and examples
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Maintain coherence and focus
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Use correct written English
GRE - General Test Structure
Test Sections & Timing (Effective Sep 22, 2023)
| Measure | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 “Analyze an Issue” task | 30 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 sections) | 12 + 15 questions | 18 + 23 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections) | 12 + 15 questions | 18 + 23 minutes |
Before Sep 22, 2023 (Legacy)
| Measure | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 Issue + 1 Argument | 30 min each |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 sections) | 20 per section | 30 min each |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections) | 20 per section | 35 min each |
| Unscored | Varies | Varies |
| Research | Varies | Varies |
Section Level Adaptation
The Verbal and Quantitative sections are adaptive. Performance on the first section influences the difficulty of the second section. Scores consider both number of correct answers and difficulty level.
Test Design Features
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Ability to move back and forth within a section
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Preview and review capabilities
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Mark & Review feature for flagged questions
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On-screen calculator for Quantitative section
Approved GRE Score Recipients
GRE scores are accepted by universities, business schools, and fellowship sponsors worldwide. Over 1300 institutions in India and abroad accept GRE scores.
GRE Subject Test Schedule
- September 2025: Sep 8 – Sep 21, 2025
- October 2025: Oct 13 – Oct 26, 2025
- April 2026: Apr 20 – May 3, 2026
Policy: You may take a GRE Subject Test once every 14 days, regardless of score cancellation.
At-Home Testing
A secure, proctored at-home option is available in most countries. The test is identical to the center-based test.
Key Changes in the New Pattern
• Duration reduced from 3h 45m to 1h 58m
• Argument Essay and experimental section removed
• Fewer questions in Verbal and Quantitative
• Verbal: Focus on contextual vocabulary and text comprehension
• Quantitative: Greater focus on data interpretation & real-world problem solving
GRE Preparation Resources
• Official GRE Mentor (Online, Self-Paced Course)
• POWERPREP® PLUS Online Practice Tests
• Vocabulary Flashcards (2000+ curated)
• ScoreItNow! Writing Practice
• Official GRE Guide (Books & eBooks)
Scholarships with GRE
57% of GRE test takers who submit scores for scholarships receive one. GRE scores are also valued in assistantships and research positions.
ETS-Sponsored Scholarships (U.S.–Focused)
• ETS Presidential Scholarship for HBCU Students: Full tuition
• Lenora M. Green Scholarship: $20,000
• Robert “Bob” Moses Scholarship: $15,000
• Dr. Lillian M. Lowery Scholarship: $15,000
Other Scholarships Influenced by GRE
• University-specific (varies by institution)
• Government-funded (USA, UK, Canada)
• Private organizations (e.g., Fulbright, Inlaks)
• Departmental awards
• Named scholarships (e.g., UBC Public Scholars, NYU Wagner)
GRE Validity & Registration Fees
GRE General Test scores are valid for 5 years.
Registration Fees (as of 2025):
• GRE General Test: $220 (varies by region)
• GRE Subject Test: $150
Additional services may include score reporting fees, rescheduling, and late registration charges.
Study Plans
1-Year Study Plan
| Months | Focus | Hours/Week | Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | Foundation Building | 2–3 | Official guide orientation; basic vocab; math concepts review |
| 3–6 | Content Development | 2–4 | Verbal (RC, SE, TC); Quant (algebra, geometry, data analysis); AWA outlines & practice |
| 7–9 | Targeted Practice | 3–5 | Timed practice tests; section-specific question banks |
| 10–12 | Final Push | 4–6 | Full mocks & reviews; vocab reinforcement; pre-test routines |
3-Month Study Plan
| Month | Focus | Hours/Week | Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Core Concepts & Strategies | ~5 | Format/scoring; vocab (roots/flashcards); math review; Verbal RC focus |
| 2 | Targeted Practice & Development | 5–6 | Timed practice; section-wise drills; AWA prompts & essay writing |
| 3 | Final Review & Refinement | 5–6 | Mocks & analysis; weakest-area fixes; test-day routine |
Know about CATKing’s GRE Intensive Program
We offer comprehensive guidance for graduate school applications, including GRE preparation and admissions support.
Here’s a breakdown of key features:
Assistance in GRE Preparation:
• Live classes with weekday and weekend options
• Access to recorded concept videos for foundational knowledge
• GRE Official Guide question solutions explained in recorded videos
• Practice tests with detailed analysis (full-length and topic-wise)
• Analysis dashboard for tracking your progress
Admissions Support:
• One-on-one mentorship
• Personalized guidance based on your target schools
• Resume and application essay preparation
• Interview training
• Help with crafting Statements of Purpose (SOPs) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Sample SOPs for reference
• Scholarship Guidance (Internal & External)
• Application Submission
• Visa, Loan, Accommodation & Forex Assistance
Additional Resources:
• Curated resources based on your dream programs
• Dedicated WhatsApp group for updates and communication
GRE® is a registered trademark of ETS. This page summarises information for student guidance.