Graduate Record Examinations

An exam for admission to master's programs in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is an English-language test taken by applicants for admission to master's, doctoral, or business programs (MBA and EMBA). The exam evaluates a candidate's ability to analyze texts, solve mathematical problems, and express ideas clearly in essays.

There are two types of GRE:

GRE General Test. This general exam evaluates a candidate's analytical skills and overall knowledge. Test results are required for admission to a wide range of programs in management, business, law, finance, and economics.
GRE Subject Test. This exam tests knowledge in one of the following subject areas: mathematics, physics, and psychology. The test consists of specialized questions, the number of which varies depending on the chosen discipline. The GRE Subject Test covers subjects such as biochemistry, biology (molecular and cellular), physics, mathematics, computer science, psychology, chemistry, and English literature.

The GRE exam is highly challenging and requires advance preparation.

How the GRE Works

Note

How the GRE Works

The test lasts 3 hours and 45 minutes and includes the following sections:

Verbal Reasoning. These questions examine understanding and interpreting texts, distinguishing between main and secondary points, vocabulary knowledge, and more.
Quantitative Reasoning. These questions assess basic mathematical skills.
Analytical Writing. Students write two essays, which are graded by at least two examiners on a six-point scale. These questions assess analytical skills and critical thinking.

Note

The computer-based GRE General Test can be taken once every 21 days, but no more than five times per year. The paper-based exam can be taken an unlimited number of times per year.

GRE scores are valid for five years. However, many educational institutions request an average score for the past five years if the exam has been taken multiple times.