Pursuing a graduate degree as an international student can be a monumental step in your academic and professional journey. But as you research programs, you have probably come across a familiar test known as the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). This standardized test can sometimes be a critical component of your application, but is it the right move for you?
Read on as we will break down the essentials of the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) to help you decide.
What is the GRE?
The GRE, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) is a standardized test widely required for admission to many graduate programs in the United States and other countries. It assesses your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. The test is designed to measure skills that are important for success in graduate school. However, note that the test is not a prerequisite for all graduate schools, and it may vary depending on where you apply.
How Does The Test Work?
The assesses skills in three main sections namely:
Verbal Reasoning: This section assesses your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary usage.
Quantitative Reasoning: This section evaluates your problem-solving abilities using arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
Analytical Writing: This section measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills through two essay tasks.
Do I have to Take The GRE?
If you are considering applying to graduate programs, especially in the United States, the GRE is often a requirement. Many universities use GRE scores as a benchmark to compare applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. Additionally, some programs in fields such as business (including some MBA programs), education, engineering, humanities, and sciences typically require or recommend the GRE. Also, high GRE scores can sometimes qualify you for merit-based scholarships and fellowships.
However, while the GRE is widely accepted in the U.S. and many other countries, some international programs do not require it. If you are an international student aiming for programs outside the U.S., ensure you check whether the GRE is necessary. Also, some business schools prefer the GMAT over the GRE. Additionally, certain master’s programs in fields like social work, public health, and fine arts may not require the GRE. Furthermore, many graduate programs have started to waive GRE requirements, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some programs now offer waivers based on undergraduate GPA, work experience, or other criteria.
Additional Details About The GRE Test
The GRE General Test has a registration fee of $220, regardless of whether you take it at a test center or at home. Additionally, Subject Tests, offered in specific areas, cost about $189 each.
As for how often you can take the test, the GRE is offered year-round on a continuous basis. There’s no limit on the number of times you can take it, but you must wait at least 165 days between attempts.
The GRE is also flexible as there are opportunities to test most days of the week, so you can schedule your exam around your availability.
To find test centers near you, you can use the search tool on the Educational Testing Service(ETS) GRE website.
Conclusion
The GRE can be a stepping stone to grad school, but it’s not for everyone. What is important is to do your research, understand your program’s requirements if the GRE is an essential part if it, and weigh your strengths and weaknesses before deciding if the GRE is the right path for you.
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