What it is
The GRE General Test (from ETS) is the most widely used graduate-admissions test — accepted by master's and PhD programs across fields, by most MBA programs, and by many law schools. In late 2023 it was shortened to under two hours (from about four), making it far more manageable. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
Format & structure
The shortened GRE runs about 1 hour 58 minutes with roughly 54 questions, computer-based:
- Analytical WritingOne “Analyze an Issue” essay (the old Argument essay was removed)
- Verbal ReasoningTwo sections — reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence
- Quantitative ReasoningTwo sections — arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis (an on-screen calculator is provided; no personal calculator)
It's section-level adaptive (your first Verbal/Quant section shapes the difficulty of the second), and within a section you can skip, mark, and return to questions. Taken at a test center or at home.
How it's scored
The GRE reports Verbal 130–170 and Quantitative 130–170 (a combined 260–340), plus Analytical Writing 0–6. There's no passing score — a good score depends on your target programs (compare to their admitted-student ranges). Scores are valid for 5 years.
Registration & cost
Register through your ETS account at ets.org/gre. The U.S. fee is about $220; fee reductions are available for eligible test-takers. You get a set of free score reports (you can send scores to programs during or after testing) and can use ScoreSelect to choose which scores to send.
Test dates & timing
The GRE is offered year-round — nearly any day at test centers, and frequently for the at-home version. You can retake it once every 21 days, up to five times a year. Register with enough lead time before your application deadlines, and leave room for a possible retake.
How to prepare
- Official ETS prepPOWERPREP practice tests (including free ones) mirror the real shortened test — the best rehearsal
- Diagnose firstTake a full practice test to set a baseline and target
- Balance Verbal & QuantMost programs look at both; strengthen your weaker side
- Practice the writing taskOne well-structured “Analyze an Issue” essay is all that's left — practice it
Strategies & tips
- Use skip & reviewWithin a section, answer easy questions first, then return to hard ones
- Learn the on-screen calculatorIt's provided on Quant — get fast with it
- No wrong-answer penaltyAnswer every question
- Know your programs' prioritiesSome care more about Quant (STEM) or Verbal (humanities)
- Consider GRE vs. GMAT for MBAMost business schools now accept both — pick your stronger test
How scores are used
Programs use the GRE alongside your GPA, statement, letters, and experience. Because it's accepted so broadly — grad programs, most MBAs, and many law schools — a strong GRE can keep your options open across fields. You control which scores you send (ScoreSelect), and scores last five years.
Accommodations & support
Test-takers with documented disabilities can request accommodations (extended time, breaks, and more) through ETS Disability Services — apply well ahead of your test date, as approval takes time.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the GRE really under 2 hours now?Yes — the shortened GRE (since late 2023) runs about 1 hour 58 minutes.
- GRE or GMAT for business school?Over 90% of MBA programs accept both — take the one your practice scores favor.
- Can I use the GRE for law school?Many law schools now accept the GRE, though the LSAT is still the traditional choice — check each school.
- At home or test center?Both are offered with the same format.
- How long are scores valid?Five years.
Key facts
- WhatGraduate-admissions test (ETS)
- Length~1h58m (shortened in 2023)
- SectionsVerbal · Quant · Analytical Writing
- Score260–340 + Writing 0–6
- Cost~$220 US · valid 5 years
- Used forGrad, most MBA, many law
Where to learn more
Confirm the latest details on the official site: