What is a GRE test?

Today we begin a cycle of publications about the GRE test. This test is quite similar to its neighbor - GMAT (you can learn about it in our previous articles ). So, in the first publication we will talk about what is the GRE test?

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) refers to tests that are taken when entering graduate programs of foreign universities and business schools. The GRE Exam was created as an effective tool for assessing analytical skills, academic knowledge, and critical thinking skills. It is conducted in English in paper or computer format. But in order to better understand what a GRE test is, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with its features, types and purpose.
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This exam exists in two versions: General (general) and Subject (subject). The most commonly used test is the GRE General, which allows to evaluate the analytical skills and the general level of knowledge of the candidate. Its structure is represented by three main sections: verbal, written and mathematical. Each of them assesses specific skills and knowledge that the student must demonstrate in the course of performing various tasks.

GRE Subject is different from the general exam. His main task is to evaluate the candidate’s knowledge of a particular subject that is specialized for his chosen specialty. This test is conducted in such disciplines as biochemistry, biology (molecular and cellular), physics, mathematics, computer science, psychology, chemistry and English literature. The structure of the exam is represented by a set of specialized questions, the number of which depends on the subject being passed.

As a rule, this exam is used by foreign universities and business schools. Test results are required for enrolling an applicant for postgraduate programs: Master Degree, Postgraduate, MBA and EMBA. GRE General is most often required for admission to courses related to management, business, finance, management and economics. Subject exam is needed to study in narrow specialties.

Test content

The GRE exam has only three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Each section will test a specific area of ​​knowledge, but all of them are aimed at assessing the candidate’s analytical skills. For example, in the verbal section there are 40 questions, answering which you need to demonstrate not only the ability to understand the printed text, but also your argumentation skills.

The math section also contains 40 assignments. However, all her tasks are focused, first of all, on checking the candidate's ability to analyze numerical data and put into practice basic mathematical models. The analytical writing section contains only two assignments, but they will require deep knowledge of grammar, spelling, style, and good argumentation skills.

GRE is highly complex and requires advance preparation. To successfully pass the test, the candidate must be fluent in English, know the grammar, have a large vocabulary and know mathematics. But most importantly, you need to be able to analyze information, draw your own conclusions and find solutions using the available data.

Test rating system

After passing all three sections of the exam, you will receive a final score. Each correct answer in the parts of Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning will be scored 1 point. For these sections you can score from 130 to 170 points. Analytical Writing is rated separately on a scale from 0 to 6 points in increments of 0.5 points. If there is no answer, you will get 0 points (No Score (NS)).

GRE Subject Test is rated slightly different. The rating scale is fixed from 200 to 990 points in increments of 10 points. Also in such disciplines as Biochemistry, Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Psychology, an additional point is indicated. It is calculated on a scale from 20 to 99 points in steps of one point.

Only by understanding what the GRE test is , you can build an effective training plan, taking into account your strengths and weaknesses. In turn, a good learning strategy will ensure the successful passing of the test and will give a chance to enter the selected program.



Secrets of effective training

To successfully pass the GRE exam, you need to undergo a good preparation. It must include English lessons with advanced grammar and vocabulary. To understand the requirements of the test and the correct execution of tasks, the language must be mastered at least at the Upper-Intermediate level. In the process of preparation, it is recommended to read a lot, at the same time training to analyze information, highlight key points of texts and draw logical conclusions, supported by facts and arguments.

Particular attention should be paid to practice. Reading texts, repeating mathematics, learning new words and grammatical norms, it is also necessary to regularly perform test tests and practical exercises, and for each section, starting from tasks in mathematics and ending with questions of the verbal section. In addition, be sure to train in writing an essay, focusing on their literacy and logic.

Understanding what the GRE test is is easy. In this case, it is important to understand its structure, the specifics of the tasks and requirements so that you can develop an effective training strategy that will allow you to get all the necessary knowledge in a short time. Therefore, in our next article we will talk more about the structure of this test.

The author of the article is Vyacheslav Davidenko, founder of MBA Consult