The GRE General Test assesses a student’s potential for success in graduate school through verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. It is administered worldwide by ETS and can be taken on a computer or paper-based. Scores are sent to graduate schools and can be prepared for through books, software, and online study assistance. Some question the fairness and usefulness of standardized tests for admission.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is a required test for many graduate school applicants that assesses a student’s aptitude and potential for success in graduate school. Most schools require the General Test and one or more Discipline Tests, depending on the degree program. The General Test is made up of three types of questions: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The GRE is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and its format is revised periodically.
The verbal reasoning section of the GRE General Test looks at reading comprehension and reasoning ability. Quantitative reasoning questions assess fundamental math skills using concepts from arithmetic, geometry, and basic statistics. The analytical writing portion measures critical thinking skills and the ability to express ideas fully and clearly through writing. The GRE General Test usually includes a fourth experimental section that uses one of the three question types mentioned above, but not counting the scores. It is normally used for research in order to develop questions for future exams.
The GRE General Test is offered worldwide. In the US and Canada, students usually take the exam on a computer at a local testing center. In some jurisdictions, students take a paper-and-pencil-based test. This is more common in countries where students do not have access to computer-based testing centers.
Procedures for registering for the GRE General Test vary by location. Those who take the computer-based test can usually register online, by mail, phone, or fax. Registration for the paper-based test is typically limited to online or mail-in registration. Depending on the test administration site, registration fees may also vary.
Exam scores are usually sent to graduate schools along with other application materials such as undergraduate transcripts, essays, and recommendations. GRE General Test scores can be given different weights depending on the programs they are submitted to. That is, admissions officials generally decide how much to emphasize test scores as part of an overall application. Their policies often affect admissions and decisions about funding or financial aid.
There are several ways to prepare for the GRE General Test. Students have several books and software packages available, as well as online study assistance. Study methods can vary, but people often find review questions and practice tests helpful. Most of these resources are offered by ETS, the company that administers the test, as well as commercial test prep services.
Some common issues with the exam include debates over whether the GRE General Test is a fair assessment of your abilities. Others question the general usefulness of requiring standardized tests for admission. In addition to the General Test, a student may also be required to take one of eight Discipline Tests, which include areas such as biology, chemistry, and psychology.
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