learn icon

Learning Home
GREMBALAW / CLATIIMs After +2CUETGMATBANK PO / SSCCLASS 10th/12thPlacement TrainingHotel Management

All About GRE

A Complete Overview Of GRE Exam Structure, Syllabus, Eligibility, And More!
Rate Us
Views:8747
Instant Access to Free Material
Did You Know?
Every year, around 250,000 students take the GMAT, while 650,000 students opt for the GRE. Many top business schools worldwide are now accepting the GRE in place of the GMAT, making it a preferred choice for graduate admissions.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an important test used to assess a student's analytical, mathematical, and English language skills. Admission committees at top universities consider the GRE as important as Letters of Recommendation (LORs) and more important than other admission requirements, though slightly less important than GPA scores.
Why is the GRE Important?
A high GRE score can help students get scholarships, make up for a low GPA, and even improve chances of securing Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA) positions.
Stay with us as we explore everything about the GRE and how it can help shape your future.
What is the GRE?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that measures a candidate’s mathematical, analytical, and English language skills. It is mainly taken by students planning to pursue graduate programs and is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats.
Overview of the GRE Exam
The GRE is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is accepted in over 160 countries at more than 1,300 business schools and universities worldwide.
The number of Indian students taking the GRE has increased significantly, from 3.1% in 2020-2021 to 68% in 2021-2023.
Before taking the GRE, here are some important details to know:
  • The GRE consists of three main sections:
    • Verbal Reasoning
    • Quantitative Reasoning
    • Analytical Writing Assessment
  • The GRE is available in two modes:
    • Computer-based (most common)
    • Paper-based
  • The computer-based GRE follows a section-adaptive format, meaning:
    • If you answer more questions correctly, the next section becomes more difficult.
    • If you start receiving harder questions, it means you are performing well.
How to Prepare for the GRE
Preparing for the GRE requires strategic planning, practice, and a good understanding of the exam pattern. Understanding the structure and difficulty level of the test can help improve scores and boost confidence on exam day.
With the right study materials, practice tests, and preparation techniques, students can achieve high scores and improve their chances of getting into top universities worldwide.
Suggested Action:
Kickstart Your CAT-MBA Journey with FREE Live Masterclasses from the Test Prep Experts!
Register Now
GRE Exam Eligibility
Before registering for the GRE exam, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria. If you are planning to pursue a master’s degree abroad, you can register for the GRE exam without any restrictions.
The GRE eligibility criteria depend on the university requirements, but there is no specific eligibility set by ETS (Educational Testing Service). The only requirement is a valid, unexpired government-issued ID, preferably a passport.
Additionally, ETS accepts expired IDs up to 90 days past the expiration date, as per their January 1, 2023, update.
GRE Slot Booking
Booking your GRE exam slot is one of the most important steps in the registration process. It takes just 15 minutes to complete, but test slots can fill up quickly.
Although a 2-month window is available for booking, it is advisable to book your slot as early as possible to secure your preferred date and location. Early booking ensures that you get an exam centerclose to your location and at a convenient time.
GRE Registration
Once your slot is booked, the next step is GRE registration. You can register for the GRE exam through the following methods:
  • Online Portal (most common and preferred)
  • By Mail
  • By Phone
GRE Exam Pattern & Format
The GRE exam is divided into two types:
  1. GRE General Test – Available in Computer-based and Paper-based formats
Sections
GRE Exam Pattern 2025
GRE General Test Duration
Analytical Writing (One Section)
One "Analyze an Issue" task
30 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning (Two Sections)
Section 1: 12 questions
Section 2: 15 questions
Section 1: 18 minutes
Section 2: 26 minutes
Verbal Reasoning (Two Sections)
Section 1: 12 questions
Section 2: 15 questions
Section 1: 21 minutes
Section 2: 23 minutes
Total
5 Sections: 55 Questions
1 hour 58 minutes
  1. GRE Subject Test – Available only in Paper-based format
GRE Subject Test
Number of Questions
Test Duration
Question Distribution
Mathematics
66 MCQs (UG-level topics)
2 hours 50 minutes
Algebra (25%)
Calculus (50%)
Additional Topics (25%)
Physics
70 MCQs (Diagrams, graphs, related topics)
2 hours
Classical Mechanics (20%)
Electromagnetism (18%)
Optics & Wave Phenomena (9%)
Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics (10%)
Quantum Mechanics (12%)
Atomic Physics (10%)
Special Relativity (6%)
Laboratory Methods (6%)
Specialized Topics (9%)
Psychology
144 MCQs
2 hours
Biological (17-21%)
Cognitive (17-24%)
Developmental (12-14%)
Social (12-14%)
Clinical (15-19%)
Measurement/Methodology/Other (15-19%)
Suggested Action:
Get CAT-MBA Free 20+ Tests & 100+ Videos, eBooks & more to boost your prep.
Sign Up Now
GRE General Test Format
The GRE General Test evaluates students through a holistic approach, meaning it assesses their English language proficiency, analytical skills, and mathematical aptitude.
The test consists of three main sections:
  • Verbal Reasoning (VR) – Measures comprehension and critical reasoning skills
  • Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – Assesses problem-solving and mathematical skills
  • Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) – Evaluates writing and argument-building skills
Apart from these, the GRE also includes:
  • Unscored Section – Used for experimental purposes; does not affect the final score
  • Research Section – A non-scored section used by ETS to test new questions
Each section plays an important role in helping universities assess applicants’ strengths and weaknesses.
GRE General Test Sections & Purpose
GRE Section
Purpose
Verbal Reasoning (VR)
Assesses English language skills and understanding of complex texts
Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
Tests mathematical abilities, problem-solving, and analytical skills
Analytical Writing (AWA)
Evaluates argument construction and written communication skills
Unscored& Research Sections
Experimental sections used by ETS; do not impact the final score
How to Send GRE Scores to Universities?
After receiving your GRE scorecard, the next step is to send your scores to universities. Here’s how you can do it:
When Do You Get Your GRE Scores?
  • For Computer-Based GRE Test
    • You will receive unofficial scores for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning immediately after completing the test.
    • Your official GRE score, including the Analytical Writing score, will be available in your ETS account within 10 to 15 days.
  • For Paper-Based GRE Test
    • Your official GRE score report will be available in your ETS account within 5 weeks after taking the test.
How to Send GRE Scores to Universities?
  • Free GRE Score Reports
    • You can send your GRE scores to up to 5 universities for free through your ETS account.
    • This option is available immediately after taking the test.
  • Additional GRE Score Reports
    • If you wish to send your scores to more than 5 universities, you will have to pay a fee.
    • The cost per additional GRE score report is $30 (INR 2,500).
Make sure to send your scores well before the university application deadlines to ensure timely processing.

Rate Us
Views:8747

Most Popular Articles - PS

All About GRE

All About GRE
GRE Preparation Books

GRE Preparation Books
GRE Eligibility Criteria

GRE Eligibility Criteria: Age Limit, Educational Qualification & More
GRE Exam Pattern

GRE Exam Pattern
GRE Mock Test

Comprehensive Guide to GRE Mock Tests
GRE Registration & Notification

GRE Registration: Month-wise GRE Test Schedule & Test Centres in India
GRE Online Coaching

GRE Online Coaching: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspirants
How to Prepare for GRE

How to Prepare for GRE
GRE Question Papers

GRE Question Papers
GRE Scores & Result

GRE Scores & Result
GRE Sample Papers

GRE Sample Papers
GRE Syllabus

GRE Syllabus
Top GRE Colleges and their Cut-offs

Top GRE Colleges and their Cut-offs
GRE | Graduate Record Examinations
GREMBALAW / CLATIIMs After +2CUETGMATBANK PO / SSCCLASS 10th/12thPlacement Training More 

All About GRE

A Complete Overview Of GRE Exam Structure, Syllabus, Eligibility, And More!
Views:8747
Instant Access to Free Material
Did You Know?
Every year, around 250,000 students take the GMAT, while 650,000 students opt for the GRE. Many top business schools worldwide are now accepting the GRE in place of the GMAT, making it a preferred choice for graduate admissions.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an important test used to assess a student's analytical, mathematical, and English language skills. Admission committees at top universities consider the GRE as important as Letters of Recommendation (LORs) and more important than other admission requirements, though slightly less important than GPA scores.
Why is the GRE Important?
A high GRE score can help students get scholarships, make up for a low GPA, and even improve chances of securing Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA) positions.
Stay with us as we explore everything about the GRE and how it can help shape your future.
What is the GRE?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that measures a candidate’s mathematical, analytical, and English language skills. It is mainly taken by students planning to pursue graduate programs and is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats.
Overview of the GRE Exam
The GRE is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is accepted in over 160 countries at more than 1,300 business schools and universities worldwide.
The number of Indian students taking the GRE has increased significantly, from 3.1% in 2020-2021 to 68% in 2021-2023.
Before taking the GRE, here are some important details to know:
  • The GRE consists of three main sections:
    • Verbal Reasoning
    • Quantitative Reasoning
    • Analytical Writing Assessment
  • The GRE is available in two modes:
    • Computer-based (most common)
    • Paper-based
  • The computer-based GRE follows a section-adaptive format, meaning:
    • If you answer more questions correctly, the next section becomes more difficult.
    • If you start receiving harder questions, it means you are performing well.
How to Prepare for the GRE
Preparing for the GRE requires strategic planning, practice, and a good understanding of the exam pattern. Understanding the structure and difficulty level of the test can help improve scores and boost confidence on exam day.
With the right study materials, practice tests, and preparation techniques, students can achieve high scores and improve their chances of getting into top universities worldwide.
Suggested Action:
Kickstart Your CAT-MBA Journey with FREE Live Masterclasses from the Test Prep Experts!Register Now
GRE Exam Eligibility
Before registering for the GRE exam, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria. If you are planning to pursue a master’s degree abroad, you can register for the GRE exam without any restrictions.
The GRE eligibility criteria depend on the university requirements, but there is no specific eligibility set by ETS (Educational Testing Service). The only requirement is a valid, unexpired government-issued ID, preferably a passport.
Additionally, ETS accepts expired IDs up to 90 days past the expiration date, as per their January 1, 2023, update.
GRE Slot Booking
Booking your GRE exam slot is one of the most important steps in the registration process. It takes just 15 minutes to complete, but test slots can fill up quickly.
Although a 2-month window is available for booking, it is advisable to book your slot as early as possible to secure your preferred date and location. Early booking ensures that you get an exam centerclose to your location and at a convenient time.
GRE Registration
Once your slot is booked, the next step is GRE registration. You can register for the GRE exam through the following methods:
  • Online Portal (most common and preferred)
  • By Mail
  • By Phone
GRE Exam Pattern & Format
The GRE exam is divided into two types:
  1. GRE General Test – Available in Computer-based and Paper-based formats
Sections
GRE Exam Pattern 2025
GRE General Test Duration
Analytical Writing (One Section)
One "Analyze an Issue" task
30 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning (Two Sections)
Section 1: 12 questions
Section 2: 15 questions
Section 1: 18 minutes
Section 2: 26 minutes
Verbal Reasoning (Two Sections)
Section 1: 12 questions
Section 2: 15 questions
Section 1: 21 minutes
Section 2: 23 minutes
Total
5 Sections: 55 Questions
1 hour 58 minutes
  1. GRE Subject Test – Available only in Paper-based format
GRE Subject Test
Number of Questions
Test Duration
Question Distribution
Mathematics
66 MCQs (UG-level topics)
2 hours 50 minutes
Algebra (25%)
Calculus (50%)
Additional Topics (25%)
Physics
70 MCQs (Diagrams, graphs, related topics)
2 hours
Classical Mechanics (20%)
Electromagnetism (18%)
Optics & Wave Phenomena (9%)
Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics (10%)
Quantum Mechanics (12%)
Atomic Physics (10%)
Special Relativity (6%)
Laboratory Methods (6%)
Specialized Topics (9%)
Psychology
144 MCQs
2 hours
Biological (17-21%)
Cognitive (17-24%)
Developmental (12-14%)
Social (12-14%)
Clinical (15-19%)
Measurement/Methodology/Other (15-19%)
Suggested Action:
Get CAT-MBA Free 20+ Tests & 100+ Videos, eBooks & more to boost your prep.Sign Up Now
GRE General Test Format
The GRE General Test evaluates students through a holistic approach, meaning it assesses their English language proficiency, analytical skills, and mathematical aptitude.
The test consists of three main sections:
  • Verbal Reasoning (VR) – Measures comprehension and critical reasoning skills
  • Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – Assesses problem-solving and mathematical skills
  • Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) – Evaluates writing and argument-building skills
Apart from these, the GRE also includes:
  • Unscored Section – Used for experimental purposes; does not affect the final score
  • Research Section – A non-scored section used by ETS to test new questions
Each section plays an important role in helping universities assess applicants’ strengths and weaknesses.
GRE General Test Sections & Purpose
GRE Section
Purpose
Verbal Reasoning (VR)
Assesses English language skills and understanding of complex texts
Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
Tests mathematical abilities, problem-solving, and analytical skills
Analytical Writing (AWA)
Evaluates argument construction and written communication skills
Unscored& Research Sections
Experimental sections used by ETS; do not impact the final score
How to Send GRE Scores to Universities?
After receiving your GRE scorecard, the next step is to send your scores to universities. Here’s how you can do it:
When Do You Get Your GRE Scores?
  • For Computer-Based GRE Test
    • You will receive unofficial scores for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning immediately after completing the test.
    • Your official GRE score, including the Analytical Writing score, will be available in your ETS account within 10 to 15 days.
  • For Paper-Based GRE Test
    • Your official GRE score report will be available in your ETS account within 5 weeks after taking the test.
How to Send GRE Scores to Universities?
  • Free GRE Score Reports
    • You can send your GRE scores to up to 5 universities for free through your ETS account.
    • This option is available immediately after taking the test.
  • Additional GRE Score Reports
    • If you wish to send your scores to more than 5 universities, you will have to pay a fee.
    • The cost per additional GRE score report is $30 (INR 2,500).
Make sure to send your scores well before the university application deadlines to ensure timely processing.

Views:8747

Most Popular Articles

All About GRE

GRE Preparation Books

GRE Eligibility Criteria: Age Limit, Educational Qualification & More

GRE Exam Pattern

Comprehensive Guide to GRE Mock Tests

GRE Registration: Month-wise GRE Test Schedule & Test Centres in India

GRE Online Coaching: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspirants

How to Prepare for GRE

GRE Question Papers

GRE Scores & Result

GRE Sample Papers

GRE Syllabus

Top GRE Colleges and their Cut-offs