Who should consider GRE?
Verify your target programs' current requirements before investing in GRE preparation.
Students applying to US or Canada master's programs that require GRE
Some STEM, economics, public policy, and humanities programs list GRE as a requirement or a preferred credential. Check the specific program page.
Students applying to US or Canada PhD programs
Many doctoral programs — particularly in science, engineering, and social sciences — have traditionally required GRE. Verify current requirements, as policies have changed at many institutions.
Students applying to test-optional programs who want to strengthen their profile
Where GRE submission is optional, a strong score can compensate for a lower GPA or gaps in research experience. Submit only if your score is competitive for the program.
Students whose target programs have waived GRE but not permanently
Many programs adopted temporary GRE waivers during 2020–2022. Check whether requirements have been reinstated. Do not assume a waiver still applies.
What the test measures
Verbal Reasoning
- Reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence
- Scored 130–170 in 1-point increments
- Two scored sections; one may be an unscored research section
- Vocabulary in context matters more than isolated word lists
Quantitative Reasoning
- Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis
- Scored 130–170 in 1-point increments
- Quantitative comparison, multiple choice, numeric entry
- No advanced calculus or trigonometry — high school maths level
Analytical Writing
- Analyse an Issue task — state and defend a position
- Scored 0–6 in 0.5-point increments
- One 30-minute task (as of the revised 2023 format)
- Graded on clarity, reasoning quality, and supporting evidence
⏱
~1 hr 58 min
Approximate test duration
130–170 per section
Verbal and Quantitative (260–340 combined)
Valid for 5 years
From the test date
When GRE makes sense
Your target program lists GRE as required
If the program's admissions page says GRE is required, you must sit the test. Check whether a minimum score is stated or scores are simply reviewed holistically.
Your target program recommends GRE or lists it as optional
Submitting a strong GRE score to a test-optional program may strengthen your application — particularly if your GPA is below the program's median or you are applying from a less-familiar institution. Submitting a weak score when submission is optional typically does not help.
You are applying 12–18 months ahead
GRE preparation typically takes 2–4 months for a competitive score. If your target programs require GRE, planning early allows time to retake the test if needed. GRE scores are valid for 5 years.
You are considering multiple programs across US and Canada
If your list includes programs with varying GRE policies, sitting the test and achieving a solid score gives you flexibility — you can choose whether to submit to each program individually.
Preparation approach
1
Check program requirements before starting
Confirm GRE is required or beneficial for your specific programs. If all your target programs are test-optional and your profile is strong, preparation time may be better spent elsewhere.
2
Take a diagnostic test
ETS (the test maker) offers free official practice tests at ets.org/gre. Take one untimed first to understand your baseline across all three sections.
3
Prioritise your weak sections
Students with strong verbal skills should not neglect Quant, and vice versa. The Analytical Writing score is evaluated separately but can signal academic writing ability to admissions committees.
4
Practise under timed conditions
GRE adaptive scoring means early questions carry more weight. Practise completing sections within the time limit and review errors to understand patterns, not just correct answers.
Common mistakes to avoid
Preparing for GRE without confirming the target programs actually require or benefit from it
Submitting a below-median GRE score to a test-optional program — this rarely helps
Neglecting Analytical Writing — a low score can signal weak academic writing even if V and Q are strong
Using only unofficial practice tests — official ETS materials are the most accurate simulation
Waiting until 4–6 weeks before the deadline to begin preparation
Not checking whether your score has expired — GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date
Frequently asked questions
Do all graduate programs in the US require GRE?
No. Many programs in the US and Canada have moved to test-optional or permanently eliminated the GRE requirement. This trend accelerated after 2020. Always check the current requirements on the official program admissions page — do not rely on information from previous application cycles.
What is a competitive GRE score?
This varies significantly by program and field. STEM programs may place more weight on Quantitative Reasoning (155–170 is typically competitive for top programs); humanities programs may weigh Verbal Reasoning more heavily. Check the reported median scores for admitted students at your target programs rather than relying on general benchmarks.
How long is a GRE score valid?
GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. Ensure your scores will still be within the validity window at the time of your application submission and any deferred enrollment you may use.
Can I retake the GRE?
Yes. GRE can be retaken once every 21 days, up to five times in a 12-month period. Many programs accept the best section scores across multiple attempts (SuperScore), but check the policy of each program individually.
Is GRE required for PhD programs?
It depends on the program and institution. Historically many PhD programs required GRE, but a significant number have waived or eliminated the requirement. Some programs reinstated requirements after temporary COVID-era waivers. Always verify on the official program page for the current cycle.
Do your programs actually require GRE?
Book a free consultation. A Dream Ladder counsellor will check the current requirements for your specific programs and tell you whether GRE is necessary, optional, or waived for your cycle.