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ETS · Graduate admissions

GRE General

Graduate Record Examinations — General Test

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A broadly used graduate admissions test for master's and PhD programs across many fields and countries.

Who needs it
Applicants to master's and doctoral programs, especially in the US, that ask for the GRE.
Format
Computer-delivered at a test centre or at home; shortened since 2023.
Duration
About 1 hour 58 minutes.
Scoring
Verbal 130–170 and Quant 130–170 (1-point steps); Analytical Writing 0–6 (half-point steps).
Validity
Scores are valid for 5 years.
Cost
Around US$220, varies by country. Varies by country — confirm officially.
Where it's accepted
Used by many graduate programs worldwide; some are now GRE-optional, so check each program.

Sections assessed

Verbal ReasoningQuantitative ReasoningAnalytical Writing

Preparation tips

  • Build a vocabulary habit early — Verbal rewards it and it takes time.
  • Use the free official POWERPREP tests to mirror the real interface.
  • Confirm whether each program still requires the GRE before investing months.

Free official practice

ETS — free POWERPREP practice Two free official practice tests.

Links go to the official test provider. Degree Globe is not affiliated with any provider and earns nothing from these links.

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