What is the GRE and Should I Take It?

Graduating from college, while certainly a cause for celebration, can also be a stressful time, as many recent grads find themselves asking what’s next? One popular option is taking the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), a test that is required for acceptance into many graduate-level programs. The GRE, however, is not a test to simply waltz into; it requires preparation and a re-sharpening of many basic skills. Let’s take a look at the structure and content of the GRE:

The test’s three sections are as follows:

1. Verbal Reasoning
The verbal component consists of two separate sections, each 25 minutes each. These sections include a variety of questions, including sentence completions and short reading passages, with the goal of testing your language mastery. Vocabulary and reading comprehension are key in succeeding on this part of the GRE.

2. Quantitative Reasoning
This portion of the test consists of two 35-minute sections each with 20 questions, including those related to elementary mathematical concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It is, therefore, important to review basic math skills and work on any math stuff you might be fuzzy on.

3. Analytical Writing
Here, you will encounter two writing prompts, one “analyze an issue” task and one “analyze an argument” task. You will have 30 minutes per task and will be asked to provide focused responses that demonstrate skill in writing and analytical thinking. This is an important section, as communication and writing skills are highly valued by master’s programs.

So, if you’re thinking, should I take the GRE, there are a number of factors to consider:

Who takes the GRE?
This exam is tailored for prospective graduate and business school applicants. If you are considering applying to a program for your master’s, MBA, and/or doctoral degree, you should take the GRE General Test. Many admissions panels will use your scores as a meter to decide if you are qualified to enter a post-graduate program. Bear in mind that this test is not exclusively for new grads; it’s also a test for folks who have been out of school for longer periods of time, but are considering returning to pursue a graduate degree. Whichever camp you belong to, before you can think about continuing your education, you should think about taking this test.

When should I take the GRE?
It depends on whether you want to take a computer-based or paper-based version of the test. If you are fine with your GRE being on the computer, test dates are offered on a continuous basis throughout the year at test centers across the country. If, however, you prefer to take your exam on paper, you’ll have to choose from three scheduled test dates. A huge benefit, though, is that you can take the computer delivered GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within any 12-month period. You may also take the paper-delivered GRE General Test as often as it is offered, so this is not a do-or-die situation.

Once you’ve considered furthering your education, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions before registering to take the GRE:

Do I have the time and energy to prepare?
Often, newly minted college grads are burnt out from the past four years of studying. If you are feeling that post-college fatigue, it might be best to not jump right into another standardized test followed by more college. Fortunately, with the frequency and availability of the GRE, you have the flexibility to take it when you are in the best mental shape to succeed.

Am I ready for more schooling?
It’s important to make a logical decision regarding your future in higher education. The GRE score you receive is valid for five years, so if you are not sure you’ll be pursing an advanced degree within that timeframe, you should think twice about taking the exam, as you might end up just having to take it again later. 

Am I willing to practice?
The GRE is a test that requires preparation. This may entail seeking tutoring and working on practice tests and questions. Remember that, even though you’ve got your college degree, the GRE will bring back some concepts and ideas that you’ll want to review before you take the test.

Written by Phil Lane

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