Graduate Record Exam, GRE is an analogue of the SAT and ACT tests, which are passed for admission to the American master’s program. Its results are one of the most important criteria for the selection of students and an important basis for admission to a university. In addition to the general GRE test, there are also GRE subject tests.
GRE test content
The GRE test is taken on a computer. The general GRE test consists of three sections:
- Analytical Writing – 2 tasks, 60 minutes to complete both.
- Reasoning and argumentation, Verbal Reasoning – 2 parts, 60 minutes to do both.
- Quantitative Analysis – 2 parts, 70 minutes to complete both
Analytical writing is the writing of two texts: free-form reasoning and essays, which show the ability to accurately and competently express complex thoughts in English. Here it is necessary to demonstrate the following skills: to distinguish between causes and effects, to build complex, but at the same time harmonious and clear argumentation, to support the expressed thought with an argument or example, to demonstrate confident knowledge of grammar and punctuation.
For most international students, this section is moderately difficult.
Reasoning and argumentation – a choice of several answers, showing the level of language proficiency, vocabulary and reading comprehension. The student must demonstrate the ability: to understand the shades of the meanings of words, direct and figurative meanings, to distinguish the meaningful from the insignificant, not corresponding to the topic. It is also necessary to understand the author’s speech and its possible deviations from the norm, to identify and analyze the structure of the text.
For most international students, this section is the most difficult.
Quantitative analysis – a choice from several answer options, showing an understanding of numerical information expressed in tables and graphs, statistical and probabilistic data analysis, the use of basic mathematical knowledge and skills in the field of arithmetic, algebra, geometry.
For most international students, this section is the easiest.