For any student who aims to study abroad, understanding the GRE syllabus is crucial as it is an important admission requirement for universities abroad. As per the new test structure, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is now a 1 hour 58 minutes exam, divided into 5 sections. The first section of the exam is analytical writing in which you have to analyze an issue. Following this task, you have to complete two sections each in verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning.
Quantitative Comparison Questions, Multiple Choice Questions and Numeric Entry Questions
Section 1: 21 minutes
Section 2: 26 minutes
Understanding GRE Exam Pattern and Syllabus
GRE is an admission prerequisite at most universities in countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Singapore. You should have a detailed understanding of the GRE syllabus and its exam pattern before you commit your time, effort, and resources to prepare.
Skills Tested in GRE
The GRE tests a wide range of skills essential for success in graduate school. These skills are assessed through three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
GRE Syllabus 2024
The GRE Syllabus for 2024 can be broadly divided into General Test Syllabus and GRE Subject Test Syllabus. The General Test Syllabus covers three areas of testing: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. These are individually scored, and the universities then consider the average final GRE score.
The test is standard for every student aspiring to pursue their post-graduate programs abroad. Now, some universities demand that the applicants appear for the GRE Subject Test, which examines the applicants on their knowledge about the specific subject they wish to specialize in. The test covers a wide range of subjects in the streams of language, analytics, and science.
GRE Exam Pattern
There are two ways a candidate can take the GRE: Computer-Delivered Test and Paper-Delivered Test. The GRE is generally a computer-based test that one can take five times a year while maintaining a gap of 21 days between two attempts. In cases where a computer is unavailable or if you feel uncomfortable using computers, the GRE can also be taken as a paper-delivered test.
Section-Wise Syllabus for 2024 GRE General Test
Analytical Writing
The Analytical Writing section measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It consists of two tasks:
Analyze an Issue:
In this task, you are presented with an issue and are asked to discuss your perspective on it. You must develop a well-reasoned argument, supporting your viewpoint with relevant examples and logical reasoning. This task assesses your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
Analyze an Argument:
In this task, you are given an argument and are required to evaluate its logical soundness. Your response should focus on identifying the argument's strengths and weaknesses, providing evidence and reasoning to support your critique. This task tests your ability to understand and analyze an argument's underlying assumptions and to communicate your analysis coherently.
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written material, synthesize information, and evaluate arguments. The GRE Verbal syllabus is divided into three parts:
Reading Comprehension:
This part assesses your ability to read and understand passages on various topics. You will answer questions about the main ideas, details, inferences, and the structure of the passages. Critical thinking and the ability to understand complex texts are crucial for success in this section.
Sentence Equivalence:
In this part, you are given a sentence with a blank, and you must select two words that, when inserted, create sentences with similar meanings. This tests your vocabulary, understanding of word relationships, and ability to determine the overall meaning of sentences.
Text Completion:
You are presented with passages with one to three blanks. Your task is to fill in the blanks with the most appropriate words from the given options. This part measures your ability to understand the context and meaning of a passage and to use vocabulary effectively.
GRE Quantitative Reasoning
The Quantitative Reasoning section measures your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information. The GRE Quant syllabus covers a wide range of topics:
Arithmetic:
This includes concepts such as integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and number properties. Basic arithmetic operations and their applications are fundamental to solving problems in this category.
Geometry:
Topics include properties and relations of plane and solid figures, lines, angles, triangles, circles, and various geometric shapes. Understanding and applying theorems and formulas is the key to success in this section.
Data Analysis:
This involves interpreting and analyzing data presented in graphs, tables, and other formats. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability, and data interpretation. The ability to draw inferences from data is crucial here.
Algebra:
This covers topics such as algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, and functions. You need to be proficient in manipulating algebraic expressions and solving various types of equations.
Download these useful guides to ace your GRE preparation
Syllabus for GRE Subject Test
The total testing time for the GRE Subject test is 2 hours and 50 minutes for the Mathematics test and 2 hours for the Physics and Psychology tests. There are no separately timed sections. Listed below is the syllabus covered in the GRE Subject test.
Mathematics
The math subject test has around 66 MCQs based on the curriculum commonly taught in undergraduate programs. GRE math syllabus includes the following:
The GRESubject test for Physics comprises approximately 70 MCQs. You will find some of the questions grouped in sets based on different physics concepts. Following are some of the topics you need to prepare:
The psychology subject test has around 144 MCQs based on the various branches of the subject like:
Biological (30 questions)
Cognitive (29 questions)
Social (19 questions)
Developmental (18 questions)
Clinical (23 questions)
Measurement/Methodology/Other (25 questions)
GRE Test Formats
GRE General Test
The GRE General Test assesses skills that are not specific to any particular field of study. It is available in both computer-delivered and paper-delivered formats and includes sections on Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. The previous format of the exam included 6 sections, with an overall time of 3 hours and 45 minutes. The new exam format is around 1 hour and 58 minutes with 5 sections. In the new format, students have to answer one task in the Analytical Writing section and 27 questions in Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning each.
GRE Subject Test
The GRE Subject Test evaluates knowledge in specific fields of study, such as Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. These tests are paper-delivered and are designed to measure your knowledge and understanding of the subject area.
GRE General Test Pattern
The GRE exam pattern for Computer-Delivered Tests and Paper-Delivered Tests are somewhat similar as both have 5 sections. However, the difference between the two is the total number of questions in the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. Let’s take a look at it in greater detail.
GRE Exam Pattern for Computer-Delivered Test
The computer-delivered GRE General Test is the most commonly taken format. It consists of five sections:
Analytical Writing:
Number of Sections: 1
Total number of questions/tasks: 1
Allotted Time: 30 minutes
Verbal Reasoning:
Number of Sections: 2
Total number of questions/tasks: 12+15
Allotted Time: 18 minutes + 23 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning:
Number of Sections: 2
Total number of questions/tasks: 12+15
Allotted Time: 21 minutes + 26 minutes
GRE Exam Pattern for Paper-Delivered Test
The paper-delivered GRE General Test is available in areas where computer-delivered testing is not possible. It also consists of five sections:
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How to Prepare for GRE General Test
The last thing that will get you through your GRE is cramming. The GRE is an intense and extensive examination format that requires candidates to invest a reasonable amount of time and sincere effort. The recommended timeline to prepare for your GRE is at least four to twelve weeks, depending on your speed and your daily commitment to your studies. You can follow the tips below and plan your preparations accordingly:
1. Know Your Base Score: Before beginning, take a full-length practice test available online and see where you stand if you were to take the actual test soon. It will help you determine the topics you need to rework.
2. Set Your Target Score: Shortlist your prospective universities and note the score you need to aim for with them. This way, you will know your goal and be able to work towards it.
3.Plan Your Ascend: It will take some research to arrive at the perfect plan to help you rise from your base score to the target score. Look at online testimonials of successful students and follow what suits you best.
4. Focus on Technique: Besides having a result-oriented approach, you should pay attention to how you approach each question. Find out the techniques to solve particular problems and work on bettering them.
5. Review Your Performance: Always analyze how you did in the practice tests, search for the patterns in your mistake and the questions you consistently have problems with. You will eventually see how useful that is.
6. Build Your Vocabulary: One way to enrich your vocabulary is by reading academic journals and publications. The internet will help you do this easily. Having a strong vocabulary takes you a long way in your GRE journey.
A master's degree from a reputed university abroad is an asset that helps you realize your career goals. A great GRE score is the first step to enrolling in a renowned global university. There are plenty of resources online that can help you prepare for the 2024 GRE test. You can also check out our recommended best books for GRE preparation to pave your way for a successful GRE.
How is GRE Exam Scored
The GRE is scored on a scale of 130-170 for both the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections in one-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. Scores are based on the number of correct responses, adjusted for the difficulty level of the questions.
GRE General Test Score Range
The score ranges for the GRE General Test are as follows:
Verbal Reasoning: 130-170
Quantitative Reasoning: 130-170
Analytical Writing: 0-6
What Should One Do After Attempting GRE
After attempting the GRE, it’s important to take several steps to ensure you make the most of your scores and continue on your path to graduate school:
Review Your Scores:
Access your official GRE scores online through your ETS account. Review your performance in each section to understand your strengths and areas for improvement.
Send Your Scores to Schools:
Use the free score reporting option to send your scores to up to four institutions at no additional cost. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.
Evaluate Your Graduate School Options:
Compare your scores with the average scores of admitted students at your target programs. This can help you assess your competitiveness and refine your list of schools.
Prepare Your Applications:
Work on other components of your graduate school applications, including personal statements, letters of recommendation, and any required supplemental materials. Tailor each application to highlight your strengths and fit for the program.
Consider Retaking the GRE:
If you are not satisfied with your scores, consider retaking the GRE. Identify areas for improvement and develop a study plan to address them before retaking the test.
Stay Informed:
Keep track of application deadlines and requirements for each program. Stay organized to ensure you submit all materials on time.
By following these steps, you can effectively utilize your GRE scores and increase your chances of gaining admission to your desired graduate programs.
You can appear for GRE a total of 5 times a year. The attempts need to be 21 days apart.
What is a good GRE score?
You are scored individually in the three segments of the GRE. A Verbal Reasoning score in the range of 158-162, a Quantitative Reasoning score between 159-164, and an Analytical Writing score of 4-6 are considered good.
What is the GRE fee?
The GRE 2024 fee is ₹22,500 in India. If a student needs to reschedule the test, a handling fee of ₹5,000 is charged.
Can a student crack the GRE without coaching?
Coaching for the GRE comes at a considerable expense, and it can be avoided. With proper time management and dedicated effort, it is possible to crack GRE without burning a hole in your pocket. You just need to go through all the online resources and prepare from the GRE study materials sold in the market. While a tutor and classes do help, with proper planning, it is possible to score well in GRE without coaching.
Are there any similarity between the GRE syllabus and the GATE syllabus?
GATE and GRE are entirely different from each other and are taken for two different purposes. While the GRE is required for admission into master's programs abroad, the GATE examination is conducted exclusively for admission to MTech and ME programs in India. The GATE syllabus is subject-specific and is taken by students who have studied the topic during their undergraduate program.
Is the GRE syllabus the same for all branches?
The GRE General Test is the same for all graduate programs across different subjects and programs. GRE General Test score can be used for MS as well as MBA programs. While the GRE General Test has the same syllabus across branches, the GRE Subject Test syllabus varies across streams/subjects.
Are there any change in the GRE syllabus 2024?
The GRE syllabus for 2024 is the same as the previous year's syllabus. So, if you had prepared well in 2023, you are good to go to take the test in 2024. But you must remember that the 2024 GRE exam pattern has changed, bringing the total exam duration to half of the previous, i.e., now the exam is 1 hour and 58 minutes instead of the earlier 3 hours and 45 minutes. Hence, you must pay extra attention to your speed and how you attempt questions.
How much time does it usually take to complete the GRE syllabus?
Students must be able to score well with six to eight weeks of intensive preparation. Aspirants can expect to put in four hours each day to complete the syllabus timely.
Are three months sufficient to prepare for the GRE?
Yes, three months or 12 weeks are more than enough to prepare for GRE.
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