The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is one of the most important criteria evaluated by graduate school admissions officers. Here is what to expect from the exam.
Think of the GRE as basically the SAT adapted for post-collegiate students. It consists of three sections covering verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing. In the first section, you will be asked to complete forty questions in an hour focusing on vocabulary and grammar. This section is much like its cousin on the SAT, but on steroids and with an undergraduate English degree. You’ll want to study up on grammar rules and broaden your vocabulary to prepare.
The second section, quantitative reasoning, is one hour and ten minutes of forty mathematical questions. It may help to revisit some old high school notes or classes to get through this section, especially given that many college graduates today have limited exposure to algebra, geometry and trigonometry. The third section is two half-hour essays – again, these will rely on strong analytical and writing skills and an ability to write quickly and succinctly under time constraints.
Take a practice exam to see how each section feels under the clock. Also, be sure to double check that all of the programs you plan on applying to accept the GRE. To find an updated list of schools that do so, click here.