The GRE may be required for admission to Physician Assistant, Veterinary Medicine, Optometry, Physician Assistant, Physical Therapist, Nursing and Post- Baccalaureate programs. The exam is offered continually throughout the year and there are two types of tests, the General Test and the Subject Tests. Most health professional schools that require the GRE only require the general test, but it is important that you review the requirements of the schools to which you plan to apply. For in depth details about the test, its sections, scheduling, scoring and preparation materials, we encourage you to explore the ETS website.
Health Careers Advising
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
The GRE is intended to reflect the type of thinking that will be required in graduate school. The three sections of the test consist of Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
- Verbal Reasoning: This section measures your ability to understand what you read and how you apply your reasoning skills.
sample Verbal Reasoning questions
- Quantitative Reasoning: This section measures your ability to understand, interpret and analyze quantitative information and solve problems using mathematical models and apply basic mathematical skills.
sample Quantitative Reasoning questions
- Analytical Writing: this section measures your ability to articulate complex ideas, examine claims and evidence, support ideas with reasons and examples and sustain a coherent discussion The Analytical Writing section requires you to provide focused responses based on the tasks presented, so you can accurately demonstrate your skill in directly responding to a task.
sample Analytical Writing questions
The scores for the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are calculated based on your raw score which is then converted to a scaled score. Each section score ranges from 130-170 in one point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a 6-point holistic scale, where scores are assigned on the basis of the overall quality of an essay in response to the assigned task. Your GRE scores will be available 10-15 days after you complete the exam.
There are many programs available that aim to prepare you for the GRE. However, if you choose to prepare on your own, a strong strategy can help you succeed. The verbal and quantitative sections are multiple choice, whereas the analytical writing section requires the test taker to write. Taking practice tests will help you to identify any weaknesses and help to get used to the pace of the test. Some other suggestions to prepare are: read a lot of analytical nonfiction, study vocabulary, adhere to a regular study plan and to chart your progress. The GRE is considered a “test of patterns” not facts, so you should allow yourself at least 4 to 12 weeks to prepare.
You should plan to take the GRE 11-14 months before you plan to enroll in graduate school, but GRE scores are reportable for 5 years.
If you have needed accommodations, such as additional time on exams and assignments while in college, you may benefit from accommodations on the GRE as well. More information can be found when you log into your ETS account, and clicl on the "GRE Accommodations Status /New Request". This process takes time, so be sure to start early to ensure your accommodations are determined before you take the GRE.
The GRE Fee Reduction Program provides substantial discounts for the testing fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
The whole test takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. There are 6 sections with a 10 minute break after the 3rd section.
GRE scores expire because the test taker’s skill set could change dramatically in 5 years.