What Is Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)?
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test widely used for admission to graduate programs and business schools around the world. As a form of standardized tests, the GRE assesses a test taker's aptitude in three core areas: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and plays a significant role in the admissions process for many prospective students seeking to pursue higher education, including master's degrees and doctoral programs.
History and Origin
The Graduate Record Examination has roots tracing back to the early 1930s. It was initially established in 1936 by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.10 Its widespread adoption began after World War II, as universities sought a consistent measure to evaluate the growing and more diverse pool of applicants to graduate programs.9 The Educational Testing Service (ETS) was later formed in 1947 and took over the administration of the GRE. Over the decades, the GRE has undergone various modifications to its format and scoring. A significant revision occurred in 2011, which introduced a new scoring scale and changed the adaptive testing mechanism from question-by-question to section-by-section.8 More recently, in 2023, ETS announced a shorter version of the GRE General Test.
Key Takeaways
- The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test used globally for admission to graduate and business school programs.
- It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
- The GRE is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
- Scores for Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning range from 130 to 170, while Analytical Writing is scored from 0 to 6.
- The importance of GRE scores in admissions has evolved, with an increasing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies.
Interpreting the GRE
The GRE General Test assesses a range of abilities considered important for success in graduate-level academic work. The verbal reasoning section evaluates a test taker's ability to analyze and evaluate written material, summarize text, and understand words in context. The quantitative reasoning section measures problem-solving skills, interpretation of quantitative information, and the application of mathematical concepts. The analytical writing section assesses critical thinking and analytical skills, particularly the ability to articulate complex ideas and support them effectively.
Scores for the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are reported on a scale of 130 to 170, in 1-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in 0.5-point increments. These scores provide a standardized metric that admissions committees can use alongside other application components like undergraduate grade point average, letters of recommendation, and the personal statement.
Hypothetical Example
Consider an aspiring student, Sarah, who wishes to pursue a master's degree in engineering. Her undergraduate academic performance was strong, but she wants to ensure her application stands out among a competitive pool. Sarah prepares for and takes the GRE. On her score report, she achieves a Verbal Reasoning score of 162, a Quantitative Reasoning score of 165, and an Analytical Writing score of 4.5.
When she submits her application, the admissions committee for the engineering program reviews her GRE scores in conjunction with her transcript, essays, and recommendations. While the quantitative score might be particularly relevant for an engineering program, her strong verbal and analytical writing scores also demonstrate a well-rounded aptitude for rigorous academic study and communication. The committee considers these scores as one piece of evidence for her readiness for graduate-level coursework.
Practical Applications
The GRE is primarily utilized by university admissions committees to evaluate candidates for various post-baccalaureate programs, including those in science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. While historically a cornerstone of graduate admissions, its role has evolved. An increasing number of institutions have adopted "test-optional" policies, where GRE scores are either not required or are given less weight in the holistic review process.7 This shift is often driven by a desire to increase accessibility, reduce financial burdens for applicants, and acknowledge that standardized tests may not fully capture a candidate's potential for success.6 Nevertheless, for many programs, submitting competitive GRE scores can still enhance an applicant's profile and demonstrate their preparedness for advanced academic work and future career opportunities.
Limitations and Criticisms
Despite its widespread use, the GRE has faced criticisms regarding its predictive validity and potential biases. Studies have indicated that GRE scores may have limited effectiveness in predicting certain aspects of graduate student success beyond initial course grades, such as research productivity or the ability to complete a doctoral program. For example, research suggests that GRE scores may not be useful in predicting outcomes like the time to dissertation defense or the number of first-author publications in biomedical graduate school.5
Critics also raise concerns about fairness and equity, arguing that standardized tests like the GRE can disadvantage certain demographic groups due to factors such as socioeconomic status, access to test preparation resources, and cultural biases inherent in the test design.4 While the Educational Testing Service (ETS) maintains that it employs rigorous standards and research to ensure the fairness and validity of the GRE,3 the ongoing debate has contributed to the growing trend of universities re-evaluating their reliance on these scores in the admissions process.
Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) vs. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are both standardized tests used for graduate school admissions, but they typically serve different purposes. The GRE is a more general exam, widely accepted for a broad range of graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, engineering, and education. It assesses general verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
In contrast, the GMAT is specifically designed for admission to graduate business programs, such as Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees. While it also tests verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills, it includes an Integrated Reasoning section that evaluates a candidate's ability to analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources, a skill highly valued in business contexts. Historically, business schools primarily required the GMAT, but in recent years, many have begun accepting GRE scores as well, offering applicants more flexibility.
FAQs
What does the GRE measure?
The GRE General Test measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. These are abilities developed over a long period and are considered important for success in most graduate-level studies.2
Is the GRE required for all graduate programs?
No, the GRE is not required for all graduate programs. While many programs traditionally require it, there's a growing "test-optional" movement, with an increasing number of universities waiving the requirement or making it optional for applicants.1
How long are GRE scores valid?
GRE scores are valid for five years after your test date. This means you can use scores from a test taken within the past five years when applying to graduate programs.
Can I retake the GRE?
Yes, you can retake the GRE General Test. If you take the computer-based test, you can take it once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period. This flexibility allows test takers to improve their academic performance.
What is the difference between the GRE General Test and GRE Subject Tests?
The GRE General Test assesses broad analytical and reasoning skills. In contrast, GRE Subject Tests measure your knowledge in specific undergraduate disciplines, such as Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology. Admissions committees may require one or both depending on the specific program.