What is the GRE?
What is the GRE and Do I Have to Take It? GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination, and it is a standardized test that many colleges and universities require you to take if you are applying for a graduate or business program. Even if you have earned your Bachelor’s degree, navigating the world of college admissions can still be confusing when you are applying for a Master’s, JD, or business degree. Working with your admissions counselor and taking things one step at a time will have you writing your first papers in no time.
Do I Have to Take the GRE?
Chances are, if you’re asking this question, the answer is yes. The vast majority of advanced degree programs require a GRE score during the admissions process. However, there are some masters in public health online programs no gre required. GRE scores are generally considered recent within five years. If you took it over five years ago, you may have to retake the test if you are applying to a new graduate program.The only way to be sure is to check with the admissions department at the school you are considering.
What is on the GRE?
The GRE has three sections that each test skills that you will need in advanced degree classes. The verbal reasoning section asks you to read passages and answer comprehension questions, using context clues and outside knowledge to complete sentences with blanks in them. The quantitative reasoning section measures your knowledge of basic math and ability to interpret data. The analytical reasoning section asks you to analyze issues and arguments are craft written responses.
The GRE is a fast paced standardized test, allotting 30 minutes for the verbal reasoning section, 35 minutes for the quantitative section, and 60 minutes for the analytical reasoning section. The verbal and quantitative reasoning sections have 20 questions each, and the analytical reasoning section has two issue tasks.
How Do I Take the GRE?
ETS makes it easy to register to take the test online. You will choose a testing center that is nearby, and pay the $205 fee. There are many paid and free options to help you study, and practice tests available online. After you take the test, it will take 10 to 15 days to find out your score. The verbal and quantitative sections are scored by a computer, and the analytical section is scored both by a person and by a computer program.
GRE Scores
Different universities have different requirements for GRE scores which you can research ahead of time, but there is no surefire way to know exactly how your test will be scored. Answering a more difficult question will increase your score slightly more than answering an easy question, and it’s impossible to determine which questions are difficult or easy. The writing section is scored holistically by at least one human and one computer. If they don’t agree on your score, a second human will read your responses. There are people who believe they can predict GRE scores for test takers, but the best thing to do is try your best and then wait for your score.
Related Resource: Top 10 MPH in Social and Behavioral Sciences Degrees Online
What is the GRE and do I have to take it? Contact your admissions counselor for the final word on which requirements you need to meet, and begin studying!