The GRE General Test is a standardised test used to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It is often required for admission to graduate school or business school. The test is divided into six sections: two verbal reasoning sections, two quantitative reasoning sections, and two analytical writing sections.
The scores for the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections are calculated using a process called "equating." This process is designed to ensure that scores are comparable across different test administrations and to adjust for any differences in difficulty between the tests. The scores for the analytical writing section are based on the overall quality of the essays you write.
It's important to note that the GRE General Test is just one factor that graduate and business schools consider when making admissions decisions. Other factors, such as your undergraduate GPA, the quality of your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and your statement, may also be considered.
GRE Sections
Verbal Reasoning
This section measures your ability to analyse and evaluate written material and synthesise information from it. It consists of two 35-minute sections, each containing 40 questions.
Quantitative Reasoning
This section measures your ability to understand, interpret, and analyse quantitative information. It consists of two 40-minute sections, each containing 40 questions.
Analytical Writing
This section measures your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively. It consists of two tasks, each of which you will have 30 minutes to complete.
Unscored Section
There is also an unscored section on the GRE, either a Verbal or Quantitative section. This section is included to help ETS test new questions for future exams.
How to Calculate GRE Scores?
Your total score on the GRE General Test is calculated by adding your scores for the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections and then converting them to a scale of 130 to 170 in one-point increments.
The analytical writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments. The scores for each section are reported separately so that you will receive a score for each of the verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing sections.
Your Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are combined to create scores ranging from 260 to 340. The scores on the Analytical Writing section are reported separately on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
To calculate your scores, ETS uses a process called equating. This ensures that scores are comparable across test administrations and accounts for any differences in the difficulty of the test questions. This process converts your raw scores (the number of questions you answered correctly) to scaled scores.
It's important to note that the GRE is just one factor that graduate and business schools consider when evaluating applicants. Other factors, such as your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statement, are also important.
Section Wise Calculation
|
Verbal Reasoning Score |
Quantitative Score |
Analytical Writing Score |
|
165-170 |
165-170 |
6.0 |
|
160-165 |
160-165 |
5.5 |
|
155-160 |
155-160 |
5.0 |
|
150-155 |
150-155 |
4.5 |
|
145-140 |
145-140 |
4.0 |
|
140-145 |
140-145 |
3.5 |
|
135-140 |
135-140 |
3.0 |
|
131-135 |
130-135 |
2.5 |
|
2.0 |
||
|
1.5 |
||
|
1.0 |
||
|
0.0-1.0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about how GRE scores are calculated:
How is the Verbal Reasoning score calculated?
The Verbal Reasoning score is calculated based on the number of questions you answered correctly in the two Verbal Reasoning sections. The raw scores are converted to scaled scores ranging from 130 to 170 in one-point increments.
How is the Quantitative Reasoning score calculated?
The Quantitative Reasoning score is calculated based on the number of questions you answered correctly in the two Quantitative Reasoning sections. The raw scores are converted to scaled scores ranging from 130 to 170 in one-point increments.
How is the Analytical Writing score calculated?
The Analytical Writing score is based on the overall quality of your essays, as evaluated by two trained readers. Each essay is rated on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments. The scores from the two essays are averaged to determine your final score.
Can I get a score report if I still need to finish the test?
No, you must complete all the sections of the GRE to receive a score report.
Can I get a copy of my test questions and answers?
No, ETS does not provide copies of test questions or answers.
Is it possible to cancel my scores?
Yes, you can cancel your scores before leaving the test centre. If you decide to do this, your scores will not be reported, and the test fee will not be refunded.
Can I take the GRE more than once?
Yes, you can take the GRE as many times as you like. However, you must wait at least 21 days between test attempts.
