The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools in the United States, Canada, and a few other countries. The GRE is owned and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
The Examination’s General Test is a multiple-choice, computer-based exam that measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The test is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes long, and it is divided into three sections:
- Verbal Reasoning: This section tests your ability to understand and analyze written material. It includes questions on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and sentence equivalence.
- Quantitative Reasoning: This section tests your basic math skills, as well as your ability to solve problems and analyze data. It includes questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Analytical Writing: This section tests your ability to write clearly and concisely on complex topics. It includes two essays: an argument analysis essay and an issue essay.
The Examination scores are reported on a scale of 130 to 170 for each section, with a total score of 340 to 510. Some graduate schools also require you to submit Examination subject tests, which are more specialized tests in specific academic disciplines.
Fees and documents required
The Examination Fee is INR 22,500 for the General Test and INR 14,500 for the Subject Test.
The following documents are required for examination registration :
- A valid ID for identification
- Admission Ticket
- Non-English Identification Requirements (for abroad test takers)
- Name Change Documentation (if applicable)
- Valid Supplementary ID
Difference between the GRE and other Business Entrance Exams
The examination is a general graduate admissions exam that is accepted by many business schools, but it is not the only business entrance exam. Other business entrance exams include the GMAT, which is specifically designed for business school admissions, and the MAT, which is a shorter and less expensive alternative to the GMAT.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between the GRE and other business entrance exams:
| Exam | Purpose | Accepted by | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| GRE | General graduate admissions | Universities and colleges in the US, Canada, and other countries, including business schools | Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing |
| GMAT | Business school admissions | Business schools around the world | Analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning skills, with a focus on business concepts |
| MAT | Business school admissions | Primarily business schools in the US | Quantitative reasoning, data analysis, and problem-solving skills, with a focus on business applications |
In addition to the differences in purpose and accepted schools, the GRE and other business entrance exams also differ in their focus. The GRE is a general exam that tests your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The GMAT and MAT are more specialized exams that test your knowledge of specific business skills and concepts.
Which exam you need to take will depend on the type of business school you are applying to. Some business schools only accept the GMAT, while others accept the GRE or MAT. You should contact the admissions offices of the programs you are interested in to find out their specific requirements.
Points of Difference between GMAT vs. GRE
The GMAT and GRE are both standardized tests that are required for admission to graduate programs, but there are some key differences between the two exams.
Purpose
The GMAT is specifically designed for business school admissions, while the GRE is a more general exam that can be used for admission to a variety of graduate programs, including business school, law school, and master\’s programs in the arts and sciences.
Format
The GMAT and GRE are both computer-based exams, but they have different formats. The GMAT has four sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. The GRE has three sections: Analytical Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. The GMAT also has an optional experimental section, while the GRE does not.
Content
The GMAT and GRE test similar skills, but there are some differences in the content of the exams. The GMAT\’s Quantitative section is more difficult than the GRE’s Quantitative Reasoning section, and the GMAT\’s Verbal section focuses more on business concepts and vocabulary. The GRE’s Verbal Reasoning section, on the other hand, tests a wider range of vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.
Acceptance
While the GMAT is specifically designed for business school admissions, many business schools also accept GRE scores. However, some of the most competitive business schools may require a GMAT score. The GRE is accepted by a wider range of graduate programs, including business school, law school, and master’s programs in the arts and sciences.
FAQs
- Who should take the GRE?
You should take the GRE if you are planning to apply to graduate school in the United States Canada, and many other countries. The GRE is required for admission to most graduate programs, including business school, law school, and master\’s programs in the arts and sciences.
- When should I take the GRE?
You should take the GRE at least 6 months before you plan to apply to graduate school. This will give you enough time to study and prepare for the exam and to retake the exam if necessary.
- What is a good GRE score?
A good GRE score will vary depending on the graduate programs you are applying to. However, a total score of 310 or higher is generally considered to be a competitive score.
- How can I prepare for the GRE?
There are many resources available to help you prepare for the GRE, including books, websites, and online courses. You can also find practice exams that will help you to get a feel for the format of the test and to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
