You've finally graduated, and now the world is your oyster. You're ready to take the next step and embark on a fulfilling career that aligns with your interests and passions. But before you dive headfirst into the professional realm, there's one important hurdle you need to conquer: the GRE. This standardised test has become an essential part of the application process for graduate programmes at universities around the world.
What is the GRE, and who does it benefit the most? In this article, we'll guide you through everything you need to know about the GRE, from its full form and scope to its benefits and exam process.
GRE Full Form and Scope
The full form of the GRE is the Graduate Record Examination. It is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), a nonprofit organisation based in the United States. The GRE exam assesses a candidate's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills.
There are two main types of GRE exams:
- GRE General Test: This test evaluates the overall aptitude and readiness for graduate-level studies. It consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
- GRE Subject Test: This test measures a candidate's knowledge in specific subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology. Not all subjects are offered on every test date.
Both types of GRE exams are widely accepted by universities and colleges around the world for admission into their graduate programs.
Benefits of Taking the GRE
There are several advantages to taking the GRE:
- Internationally Recognised Scores: The scores obtained on the GRE exam are recognised by thousands of graduate schools and business programmes worldwide.
- Versatile Exam: The GRE is accepted for various disciplines ranging from arts and humanities to business administration and engineering. Regardless of your chosen field, a good score can enhance your chances of admission.
- Comprehensive Assessment: The different sections of the GRE exam evaluate various skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, written communication skills, and verbal reasoning. This holistic assessment provides universities with a well-rounded view of your capabilities.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Many educational institutions offer scholarships and financial aid based on an applicant's GRE scores. A high score can increase your chances of receiving financial assistance for your studies.
- Career Advancement: Some job positions require applicants to provide their GRE scores as part of their application process. Having good scores can give you an edge over other candidates and open up new career opportunities.
GRE Exam: An Overview
Exam Dates
- The GRE General Test is available throughout the year in most countries, including India.
- ETS offers test dates on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to register well in advance to secure your preferred date.
Registration Process
- Create an ETS account on their official website.
- Select your preferred test date and centre.
- Fill in personal details and upload a recent photograph.
- Pay the registration fee using the available payment options.
- Review your details and submit the registration form.
Make sure to check the registration deadlines for each test date, as late registrations may incur additional fees.
Fee Structure
- The fee for taking the GRE General Test in India is approximately ₹14,500.
- For the GRE Subject Test, the fee is approximately ₹14,000 per subject chosen.
- Additional charges apply for services such as rescheduling or changing test centres.
- It's important to note that fees may change over time, so it's advisable to check the official ETS website for the most up-to-date information before registering for the exam.
Eligibility Criteria for Taking the GRE Exam
- There are no specific eligibility criteria to take the GRE exam. Students who have completed their undergraduate studies or are in their final year can apply for this exam.
- The GRE exam does not have any age limit or restrictions based on nationality. It is open to all individuals who wish to pursue graduate studies or enhance their career prospects by showcasing their academic abilities and skills.
GRE Exam Format
The GRE consists of two main types of tests: the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test.
1. GRE General Test
- The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates reading comprehension, vocabulary usage, and critical reasoning skills.
- The Quantitative Reasoning section assesses problem-solving abilities and basic mathematical concepts.
- The Analytical Writing section measures your ability to articulate complex ideas, analyse arguments, and present coherent written responses.
2. GRE Subject Test
- These tests focus on specific subject areas like Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology.
- They assess a candidate's knowledge in depth within their chosen subject.
Both types of tests are computer-based exams that can be taken at authorised test centres. The duration of the computer-based GRE General Test is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. The frequency of the test dates varies throughout the year but is typically available multiple times per month.
Validity of GRE Results
The scores obtained on the GRE exam are valid for five years from the test date. This means that you can use your scores during this period for admission into various institutes, colleges, and universities across the globe.
Several prestigious institutions accept GRE scores for admission into their graduate programmes. Whether you aspire to pursue an MBA, a Master's degree in a specific field, or even a Ph.D., qualifying for the GRE exam provides you with opportunities to further your education at renowned institutions.
It's important to note that while GRE scores are an essential criterion for admission, they are not the sole factor considered by universities. Other factors, such as academic records, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and work experience, also play a significant role in the admissions process.
Unlock Your Potential with the GRE
With their internationally recognised status, GRE scores are valued by employers and educational institutions alike. So why wait? Take the next step towards unlocking your potential by considering the GRE exam. And remember, WIZR is here for you, offering expert guidance on a wide range of upskilling programmes and courses tailored to your needs.
FAQs
1. How can I prepare for GRE?
There are various ways to prepare for the GRE exam. You can opt for self-study using prep books and online resources, join coaching classes, or take advantage of online courses specifically designed for GRE preparation.
2. What are some popular courses that benefit from GRE scores?
GRE scores are commonly required for admission into graduate programmes such as business administration (MBA), engineering, computer science, social sciences, and the humanities.
3. How many times can I attempt the GRE exam?
You can take the GRE exam once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period.
4. Can I take the PTE exam even while pursuing an undergraduate degree?
Yes, you can take the PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam while pursuing an undergraduate degree or at any stage of your education journey to assess and enhance your English language proficiency.
