Written BySayantani Barman Experta en el extranjero
ETS conducts GRE, a standardised examination for graduate-level academic performance. GRE Revised General Test came into effect on 1st August 2011, in place of GRE General Test. It is a half-day examination for measuring the cognitive abilities of a candidate in terms of three meters.
GRE Revised General Tests are conducted as paper-based only in remote locations outside North America. For the rest of the places, the revised GRE test is available only as computer-based. It is to be noted that both the paper-based and the computer-based exams contain similar questions, and none of them provides any special consideration or advantage for the candidates according to the mode they opt.
GRE test scores are one of the many criteria while applying for admission to graduate courses in the United States, Canada etc. It is to be noted that GRE scores are not the sole eligibility requirement in these courses. Also, there are a few universities and courses which do not mandatorily require GRE scores.
Changes in the GRE Revised General Test
The revised GRE General Test which replaced the previous GRE General Test has undergone some significant changes in the exam format like
- Earlier it was computer adaptive test, now it is multi stage test (MST)
- It is more user-friendly and effective
- In the CAT format, there is a display of one question at a time, whereas in the revised MST format, the questions are answered as sections where candidates can navigate back and forth between questions in a section.
GRE Revised General Test Exam Pattern
GRE Revised General Test consists of six sections with a total duration of about 3 hours 30 minutes. At the beginning of each section, details regarding the number of questions in the section, time allotted and directions for answering will be provided.
Scores of the GRE Revised General Test will be available after six weeks from the date of taking the test.
| Cognitive Measure | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 2 Tasks - Analyze an issue & Analyze an argument | 60 minutes (30 minutes per task) |
| Verbal Reasoning | 2 Sections - 25 Questions per section | 70 minutes (35 minutes per section) |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 2 Sections - 25 Question per section | 80 minutes (40 minutes per section) |
| Total | 2 Tasks & 100 Questions | 3 hours 30 minutes |
GRE Revised General Test Syllabus
GRE Revised General Test measures the candidate using three skills as mentioned previously.
Analytical Writing
In Analytical Writing, the candidate is evaluated based on their skill to articulate themselves in writing. Usage of standard English and well-structured sentences along with relevant examples and evidence for your writing is measured in this section. The two tasks will be aimed at bringing out these skills.
Also Read GRE AWA Samples
Quantitative Reasoning
For Quantitative Reasoning, the questions will be analysing the candidate's ability to handle quantitative problems. Mathematical problems, interpretations, basic mathematical skills etc. are the abilities which are measured in this section. As per the revised GRE format, candidates can skip and later retry questions within a section, which makes answering the GRE Revised General Test more efficient for the appearing candidates.
Also Read GRE Quantitative Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning
The overall idea of verbal reasoning is to measure the candidate's ability to interpret and draw conclusions from data. The skills that help in this part of the GRE Test are interpretation, distinguishing points, summarising lengthy information, understanding the whole structure, meaning and concept of texts. As mentioned in quantitative reasoning, GRE revised format allows the candidate to navigate between questions of a section in the verbal reasoning part as well.
Also Read GRE Verbal Reasoning
GRE Preparation Tips
While preparing for the GRE Revised General Test, the most important thing is to understand the concept and aim of the test. By knowing the test structure and the skills measured in it, the candidate can work on themselves. Preparing for the GRE Revised General Test should be smart work instead of just hard work. Assessing yourself for the measured cognitive skills and improving where you lack is the key.
Check GRE Sample Papers
Suggestions for GRE Revised General Test Candidates
- Be familiar with the objective of the GRE test.
- Work and practise on the tested skills to improve efficiency.
- As per the official notifications, calculators for GRE tests will be provided at the centres. Become familiar with using similar calculators.
- Check and understand the marking scheme and time allotted for each section of GRE.
- Practise regularly, preferably online.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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