To gain admission to postgraduate programs in global graduate and business schools, candidates are required to undergo the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). Indian applicants, particularly those aspiring to pursue master’s or doctorate courses at universities in the US and several Canadian institutions, typically opt for this standardized test.
The GRE General Test serves as an evaluative tool for gauging one’s preparedness for graduate-level coursework. Certain graduate programs necessitate taking both the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test to assess technical proficiency in specific fields.
Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), a renowned non-profit organization based in the US, the GRE is widely accepted internationally for postgraduate admissions. It holds significance for those interested in MS, MBA, professional degrees, or thesis-based coursework.
Remarkably, an increasing number of business schools now accept GRE scores in lieu of GMAT results. Furthermore, several US law schools have transitioned to accepting the GRE as an alternative to the traditional LSAT.
Unlike some standardized tests, the GRE has no age restrictions imposed by ETS, making it accessible to individuals of all age groups. Although a undergraduate degree is not mandatory for taking the test, completion of undergraduate coursework is required for admission to graduate programs.
Candidates have the flexibility to choose between the “GRE at Home” and “GRE at a Test Centre” formats, available throughout the year. Adequate preparation is crucial, and the recommended timeframe for taking the test is 60 to 90 days before the first university application deadline, allowing time for potential retakes.
The GRE encompasses two types of tests: the GRE General Test, which evaluates analytical writing, numerical ability, and verbal reasoning, and the GRE Subject Test, which assesses knowledge in specific fields such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
In India, the GRE General Test can be taken in two formats: the computer-based test at an approved testing facility or the at-home option if the system meets ETS standards. The test structure includes sections on verbal reasoning, numeric reasoning, and analytical writing, resembling question types found in graduate and professional institutions.
Eligibility for the GRE is not restricted by specific criteria; a current, unexpired government-verified ID document, preferably a passport, is all that is required. GRE results are valid for five years, and the test can be taken to pursue a master’s degree abroad, with specific eligibility criteria determined by the university.
Booking a GRE slot is a critical step in test preparation, and it is recommended to secure an appointment as soon as one is prepared, ensuring availability and proximity to the desired location.
Upon receiving the test results, candidates can transmit them to institutions of their choice through the ETS account. For computer-based tests, unofficial GRE verbal and quantitative results are available immediately, while the official score report, including the analytical writing score, becomes visible in the ETS account after 10 to 15 days. Paper-based test takers receive official score reports five weeks after the test date.
To aid in GRE preparation, setting a target score and tailoring a study plan around it is advised. Taking practice exams, focusing on strengths and weaknesses, and utilizing a variety of free and paid resources contribute to effective preparation for the GRE.
