Are you planning to study for a master’s degree or MBA? To get into many of the top universities and business schools you will require solid GRE test scores. GRE stands for Graduate Record Examinations. The ETS (Educational Testing Services) conducts and administers these exams. While the tests originated in 1936 in the USA, many of the top universities around the world now recognise and accept GRE scores. They allow students to apply to international universities and colleges and study abroad. These tests take place in more than 1000 centres in around 160 countries. We look at what you’ll need to take the test, and what the GRE test dates are for 2024.
GRE Test Dates for 2024
The GRE tests for 2023-24 opened in July 2023. The online GRE test takes place throughout the year. You can pick your nearest centre and preferred dates for the 2024 test from the official website.
The test is now predominately carried out as a computer-based test. However, in areas where computer-based testing is not available then it can be delivered as a paper test. The GRE General Test can be attempted once every 21 days, with a maximum of 5 attempts in a rolling 12-month period.
The GRE test has two formats: the GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test. Each of these tests has a different syllabus. Many universities will ask you for GRE subject test scores if you have applied for more specific courses. A subject test helps the institute to assess your expertise in a specialised field.
WHAT IS THE Eligibility CRITERIA?
The GRE test has no specific requirements in terms of age, qualifications or experience. However, the university you are applying for may have prerequisites, so we strongly advise that you enquire about these in the early stages of your research.
At EDUopinions, we can help you find the right university based on your unique criteria and objectives. The service is completely free and you can contact us to find out more.
The only and most important eligibility requirement for GRE is proof of identity. As identity proof, they will only accept an original copy of your passport. The passport should be in good condition and should clearly display your name, signature, and photograph. You can not submit any other document, including a driving license or your birth certificate.
How can I register for the test?
Candidates can register for the GRE General Test through GRE’s official website. While it is a simple process one should always go through the Registration Check List first. The GRE registration fees also differ from country to country and range between $205 – $230.
What Do GRE Tests Assess?
The General GRE test is designed to test your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills.
On the other hand, the GRE Subject Tests are designed to check your in-depth knowledge of the specific subject you have applied for.
GRE test results are valid for up to 5 years after taking the test.
Are the tests hard?
How challenging you find the GRE test will depend on a number of factors. Firstly, the test includes some advanced vocabulary and wording, so if English is not your first language this may be more difficult for you to comprehend.
The GRE also requires students to approach things differently from how they may be used to them. For example, questions may not be worded in a direct manner, meaning you really need to think about what you are being asked and read “between the lines”.
Overall the GRE is easier than other post-grad tests such as MCAT, GMAT, or LSAT.
The good news is that you can prepare for the test well in advance. There are plenty of practice tests online and you can spend time honing your essay-writing skills in advance.
Types of GRE Tests
There are three types of GRE tests, which are the GRE Subject Test, the GRE for Business School, and the GRE for Law School:
GRE Subject Test
As the name suggests, the GRE Subject Tests focus on specific subjects. These tests evaluate students’ knowledge in the particular subject to which they have applied for. The six main subjects for a GRE test are; Biology; Chemistry; Literature in English; Mathematics; Physics; and Psychology.
Students can take the paper-delivered Subject tests 3 times a year (September, October, and April).
GRE for Business School
Top universities in the USA and other countries accept GRE for Business School scores. Many Ivy League schools including, Harvard Business School, Stanford University, HEC Paris, London Business School, and the University of Oxford recognize GRE scores and accept students with great GRE scores.
This is a great opportunity for students as GRE general tests assess candidates on parameters learned over time. Therefore, it is easier to score high on the GRE than on the GMAT. Another great reason to go for the GRE instead of the GMAT is a lower-cost test.
If you are looking to study an MBA then many business schools will take either GRE or GMAT results, although it is strongly recommended to double-check the requirements for your chosen school before booking the test.
GRE for Law Schools
Law schools previously only accepted candidates with the LSAT scores only. However, many of the reputed law schools now accept candidates with good GRE scores. There are thousands of students who apply for the GRE for Law School every year. The GRE General Test allows students to get admission into any Law School under the JD Programme.
JD stands for Juris Doctorate which is the entry professional degree of law. This post-graduation degree is valid to practice law in the US, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
If you’d like to know more about why a GMAT/GRE test score is necessary, feel free to take a look at this article. If you are still unsure about whether you need to take the GRE test, or you are unsure what universities or business schools to apply to, then we can help you find the right programme.
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Editor’s note: This article was first published in December 2021. We’ve updated it for current readers.
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