GRE Tips

The GRE functions as a test for graduate programs in all fields, from education to business to law school. There are three areas the GRE tests, and these skills are crucial to most graduate-level courses:

Verbal reasoning
Quantitative reasoning
Analytical writing

Most GRE tests are administered via computer, but there are still some sites that conduct the test in paper-and-pencil format. In general, those who submit their tests using a computer have the option to immediately view their unofficial scores on the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections. Writing submitted using a computer is scored by a human and by the ETS computerized e-rater program. These scores are generally available about 10-15 days after the test.

Students who complete their tests on paper will receive their finalized scores in 4-5 weeks.

Verbal reasoning assesses your ability to analyze and draw conclusions based on intent, data, word relationships, and multi-level comprehension. You are assessed on a score range between 130-170 points.

Quantitative reasoning assesses your ability to solve problems in math, including geometry, algebra, and other quantitative equations. Quantitative reasoning questions are also assessed on a score range of 130-170 points.

Analytical writing assesses your abilities to think critically and write analytically. There are two writing assessments: an “issue” essay, and an “argument” essay. Both focus on the content rather than the mechanics and grammar, although serious issues in these areas that distract from meaning can lower your score.

Each essay is scored on a 0-6 holistic rubric and is rounded to the nearest half-point when averaged with each other. The essay is scored by a human and by e-rater, and if the scores closely agree, they are combined and averaged. If they disagree, another human scorer assesses your essays, and both human scores are used to obtain your final score.