GRE General FAQ for Master’s and PhD Applications: Your Top Questions Answered

When applying for a Master’s or PhD program, one of the most important steps is taking the GRE General Test. However, the GRE can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for those who are taking it for the first time. To help alleviate some of the stress, we’ve compiled a list of the top frequently asked questions about the GRE General Test for graduate school applications.

1. What is the GRE General Test? The GRE General Test is a standardized exam that measures the skills and abilities needed for success in graduate and business schools. It consists of Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections.
2. How long is the GRE General Test? The total testing time for the GRE General Test is about three hours and 45 minutes, including one-minute breaks between test sections and a 10-minute break after the third section.
3. What is a good score on the GRE General Test? The average GRE scores vary by field of study, but generally, a score of 160 or higher on the Verbal Reasoning section and 160 or higher on the Quantitative Reasoning section is considered competitive for most programs.
4. How many times can I take the GRE General Test? You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period.
5. How long are GRE General Test scores valid? GRE General Test scores are valid for five years after your test date.
6. How can I prepare for the GRE General Test? There are many resources available for GRE test preparation, including official GRE practice materials, test prep books, and online courses. It’s important to develop a study plan that works best for your learning style and schedule.
7. Should I take the GRE General Test multiple times? It’s possible to improve your score by taking the GRE General Test multiple times, but be aware that some programs may average your scores or consider all scores during the application review process.
8. Can I choose which GRE General Test scores to send to schools? Yes, you can choose which scores to send to schools, but some programs may require that you send all of your GRE scores.
9. How do I register for the GRE General Test? You can register for the GRE General Test on the Educational Testing Service (ETS) website.
10. How long does it take to receive GRE General Test scores? It takes about 10-15 days to receive your official GRE General Test scores after taking the exam.

In conclusion, taking the GRE General Test is an important step in the graduate school application process. It’s important to understand the exam format, score requirements, and preparation resources available to maximize your chances of success. By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to provide clarity and alleviate some of the stress associated with taking the GRE.