GRE Overview
The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, is a standardised test used in postgraduate admissions throughout the world and especially in North America, at both the master’s and doctoral level. It measures test-takers’ aptitude across three areas: 1. verbal reasoning, 2. quantitative reasoning, and 3. analytical writing. The most common version is the GRE General Test; however, discipline-specific versions are also available in mathematics, physics, and psychology.
Verbal Reasoning
In the verbal reasoning section, test-takers will be assessed on their reading comprehension skills and their ability to analyse texts, including identifying main ideas, making inferences, and drawing conclusions. It also requires them to demonstrate a strong understanding of English vocabulary and sharp critical thinking skills.
Verbal Reasoning Resources
Quantitative Reasoning
The quantitative reasoning section is comprised of various tasks covering statistics, algebra, and geometry. Test takers are expected to analyse data and showcase their problem-solving skills.
Quantitative Reasoning Resources
Analytical Writing
The GRE General Test includes one writing task: Analyze an Issue. Here, test takers should be able to coherently express their ideas and support their arguments with adequate detail and language competence.
Analytical Writing Resources
Comparison with IELTS and TOEFL
Compared to IELTS and TOEFL, the GRE is shorter in duration, tests a wider range of knowledge, and is primarily about measuring one’s preparedness for advanced study rather than English language skills. Nonetheless, a solid foundation in English reading and writing is essential to GRE success. The main similarity is that each test includes a writing task; however, the GRE Analyze an Issue section requires a single essay that is longer and more developed, while the IELTS and TOEFL writing tasks require 2 shorter written pieces. GRE writing also places specific emphasis on the test-taker’s analytical proficiency. IELTS and TOEFL scores are typically valid for two years; GRE scores are valid for five years.
Print Resources Available at ILC
- GRE prep plus 2024-2025 – updated for the new GRE. (2018-). New York: Kaplan Publishing. (LB2367.4 .G7485)
- GRE Complete 2024: 6 Practice Tests + Proven Strategies + Online. (2023). New York: Kaplan Test Prep. (LB2367.4 .G7485 2024)
- GRE math workbook. (2019). New York, NY: Kaplan Publishing. (QA43 .G68 2019)
- GRE verbal workbook. (2019). New York, NY: Kaplan Publishing.(LB2367.4 .G749 2019)
- Meltzer, E.L. (2017). GRE vocabulary in practice. New York: The Critical Reader. (LB2367.4 .M45 2017)
- Princeton Review GRE premium prep, 2024. (2020-). New York, NY: Penguin Random House LLC. (LB2367.4 .G735)
Need Further Assistance?
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