Get ready for the GRE with VisaCandy’s comprehensive training. Our expert instructors focus on Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, offering practice tests and problem-solving techniques. We equip you with strategies to perform well in both the general and subject-specific sections of the GRE.

What is GRE?

The GRE is a standardized test that assesses your skills in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The GRE is primarily required for graduate school admissions in many fields, including engineering, sciences, humanities, and business (for certain MBA programs).

The GRE is accepted by universities around the world, especially in North America, Europe, Asia

1. United States
  • TheUSA is the primary country where the GRE is widely accepted, with graduate programs in most universities requiring GRE scores for admissions
  • It is commonly required for master’s programs (e.g., MS, MSc, MA) and Ph.D. programs.
  • Leading institutions such as Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of California Berkeley, and University of Chicago accept GRE scores for various graduate-level programs.

  • 2. Canada
  • Most Canadian universities accept the GRE for graduate admissions. However, the requirements vary by program.
  • Popular universities such as University of Toronto, University of British Columbia (UBC), McGill University, and University of Montreal accept GRE scores for certain graduate programs.
  • Note: Some Canadian programs (especially in humanities) may not require the GRE, while it is a common requirement for engineering and science programs

  • 3. United Kingdom
  • Many universities in the UK accept GRE scores for certain graduate programs, especially for PhD admissions in fields such as Engineering, Sciences, and Business.
  • London School of Economics, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge , and Imperial College London are some universities that accept GRE scores for specific programs, especially in science, engineering, and economics.
  • Note: The GRE is less commonly required for master’s degrees compared to countries like the USA and Canada, but it is still accepted for specific programs

  • 4. European Union
  • Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Belgium, and other European countries accept GRE scores for graduate admissions, particularly for engineering and science programs.
  • Notable universities include ETH Zurich (Switzerland), Technical University of Munich (Germany), and University of Amsterdam (Netherlands).
  • France and Germany accept GRE scores for specific programs, especially those related to engineering, economics, and business.

  • 5. Australia
  • Australian universities such as University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), and University of Sydney accept GRE scores for graduate admissions, especially for programs in engineering, science, and business.
  • Some business schools in Australia, like University of Melbourne and University of Queensland, may also accept GRE scores for MBA admissions.

  • 6. New Zealand
  • New Zealand universities like University of Auckland, University of Otago, and Victoria University of Wellington accept GRE scores for graduate admissions, particularly for engineering and science programs
  • Note: The GRE may not be required for all programs, but it is widely accepted for those in technical fields.

  • 7. Asia
  • India: While many Indian universities (like Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and Indian Institute of Management (IIM)) do not require GRE scores for most programs, some graduate programs in engineering, technology, and business may accept GRE scores, especially for admission to foreign universities.
  • China: Top universities like Peking University and Tsinghua University accept GRE scores, particularly for engineering, computer science, and business programs.
  • Singapore: Institutions like National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) accept GRE scores for graduate admissions in engineering, computer science, and other fields.
  • South Korea: KAIST and POSTECH accept GRE scores for specific graduate programs, particularly in STEM fields.
  • Japan: Some Japanese universities, such as University of Tokyo and Kyoto University, accept GRE scores for graduate admissions in technical fields.

  • 8. Middle East
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE): American University of Sharjah, University of Dubai, and other universities in the UAE accept GRE scores for graduate admissions, particularly in business and engineering
  • Qatar: Qatar University and other institutions in Qatar accept GRE scores for graduate-level programs.

  • 9. Latin America
  • Brazil: Some universities, especially those with graduate programs in engineering and business, accept the GRE.
  • Mexico: Tecnológico de Monterrey and National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) accept GRE scores for graduate admissions, particularly in STEM and business programs.
  • Chile: Pontifical Catholic University of Chile accepts the GRE for certain graduate programs, particularly in engineering and business.
  • The GRE General Test assesses your proficiency in three main areas: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing

      1. Verbal Reasoning (40 Questions, 60 Minutes)

        Purpose:Measures the ability to analyze and evaluate written material, understand the meanings of words and sentences, and apply reasoning skills.

        Skills Assessed:Understanding of vocabulary, sentence structure, and the ability to evaluate arguments.

      2. Quantitative Reasoning (40 Questions, 70 Minutes)

        Purpose:Measures mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.

        Skills Assessed:Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

      Format:Some questions allow the use of a calculator, but others don’t.

      3. Analytical Writing (2 Tasks, 60 Minutes)

        Purpose:Measures the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, with appropriate examples and logical structure.

        Task:

      • Issue Task:Write an essay based on a given issue or topic.
      • Argument Task:Critique a given argument, evaluating its reasoning and evidence.

      Optional Sections:

        Research Section:This is an unscored research section that may be included in your test. It does not count toward your score but helps ETS gather data for future versions of the test.

        Total Duration: The GRE General Test takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes (including breaks)

      • Verbal Reasoning: T130–170, in 1-point increments.
      • Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170, in 1-point increments.
      • Analytical Writing:0–6, in half-point increments.
      • Total Score: The combined score for the Verbal and Quantitative sections ranges from 260 to 340.

        Score Range:0–6, in half-point increments.

        • Above 320:Excellent score (generally competitive for top programs).
        • 300–319:Good score (acceptable for many graduate programs).
        • Below 300:Below average (may be considered weak for competitive programs).

    • 1. Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the test format, question types, and timing for each section.
    • 2. Practice with Official Materials: ETS offers official GRE prep materials and practice tests to simulate real exam conditions.
    • 3. Focus on Weak Areas: Focus on areas where you need improvement, whether it’s verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, or analytical writing.
    • 4. Set a Study Schedule: Create a study plan to cover all topics and practice under timed conditions.
    • 5. Use GRE Prep Books: Invest in well-known GRE prep books, such as those by Kaplan, Princeton Review, or Barron's.

  • GRE is offered year-roundat test centers worldwide.
  • Computer-based GRE is the most common version and is available throughout the year. Paper-based GRE is available in regions where the computer-based version is not available.
  • You can check availability and register for the GRE on the official ETS website.
  • The GRE is widely accepted across the world, especially in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, for graduate school admissions in fields ranging from business to engineering, social sciences,and humanities. By understanding the test structure and preparation tips, candidates can perform well and meet the admission requirements for top universities globally