What is a Good GRE Score for 2025? A Guide to Testing Criteria & Average Scores

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Graduate schools have a wide range of desired qualifications and expectations for applicants. Educational institutions use a variety of indicators to determine applicants’ admission credentials. Among which are a student’s Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score.

The GRE is regarded as one of the most challenging standardized tests used to compare applicants to graduate schools. More than 1,300 business schools and more than 80 law schools worldwide recognize GRE scores for admission to their programs. As such, receiving a good score on the GRE can give anyone considering a graduate degree an advantage. Still, every graduate educational institution adopts different standards in terms of accepted GRE scores. With this in mind, one might ask what is a good GRE score?

This guide provides a comprehensive answer to the question above. It discusses how the GRE is scored. Likewise, it also presents helpful ways in which one can calculate and obtain a good score.

What is a Good GRE Score Table of Contents

1. What is GRE?
2. What is a Good GRE Score?
3. Is a Graduate Degree the Only Route to Career Success?
4. How is the GRE Scored?
5. How to Get a Good Score on GRE?
6. Can nontraditional qualifications complement my GRE performance?
7. What additional factors strengthen your graduate school application?
8. How much do GRE scores matter?
9. How Can I Compensate for a Less-Competitive GRE Score?
10. How can test anxiety affect GRE performance and how can it be managed?
11. Should I retake the GRE?
12. Can a Strong GRE Score Enhance My Career Prospects?
13. What Are the GRE Fees and Preparation Investment Considerations?

What is GRE?

What is a GRE score? The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized exam that assesses one’s ability in three critical areas: verbal and quantitative reasoning, as well as analytical writing. The exam, which has been in existence since 1936, is administered by the Educational Testing Services (ETS) (Kagan, 2022). Many graduate schools in the United States and Canada, as well as most universities around the world, use the GRE to determine an applicant’s eligibility for the program. To gain admission to their programs, most universities place a premium on a high GRE score. However, it is important to note that there are also graduate schools without GRE requirements.

GRE Test Classifications

The GRE is classified into two types: General and Subject Tests.

• The General Test is usually taken by prospective graduates and business school applicants who want to pursue an MBA, Master’s degree, or specialized master’s in business, law, or doctorate degree. It consists of questions designed to assess the skills and thinking required to succeed in today’s competitive business schools and graduate programs.
• The Subject Test assesses one’s knowledge of a specific field of study. This exam is designed for students who have extensive experience or an undergraduate degree in one of the followin disciplines: ChemistryMathematicsPhysicsPsychology
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Psychology

The General Test can be taken as a computer-based or paper-based exam. Most countries offer computer-based tests all year, while paper-based exams are only offered twice a year, in November and February. On the other hand, Subject Tests are offered three times a year in September, October, and April at paper-delivered test centers all over the world. There are over 1,000 GRE test centers in more than 160 countries where the GRE General or Subject Test can be taken.

The General Test can be taken once every 21 days, up to five times in any 12-month period. Subject Tests, on the other hand, are taken as frequently as they are offered. The former takes three hours and 45 minutes to complete without breaks, while the latter lasts for two hours and 50 minutes. Successful test takers receive GRE scores for each part, which are valid for five years.

Although the results will be available for five years, the actual test should be taken a few months before applying to a prospective degree program. This is because scoring the test and submitting the score report to the prospective university takes time. Thus, requirements such as the GRE must be ready by the prospective students before the deadline for college application.

What is the GRE used for in graduate school admission?

The purpose of the GRE is to provide an objective and unbiased framework for comparing all applicants, regardless of their backgrounds (Educational Testing Services, n.d.). The GRE is intended to serve a specific purpose in the admissions decision-making process. A GRE score can:

• Assist schools, colleges, and universities in determining which applicants are academically prepared for graduate-level study; and,
• Provide a common, objective metric to assist programs in fairly comparing applicants from various backgrounds.

According to ETS, the GRE aims to assess verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills acquired by students over time.

In a study titled “Can the GRE predict valued outcomes? Dropout and writing skill" published in PLoS ONE, Bridgeman and Cline (2022) saw a significant correlation between GRE analytical writing scores and the quality of subsequent graduate student writing samples. The GRE was also effective in predicting program dropout in two highly selective schools.

The importance of GRE scores in graduate school admissions varies greatly between schools and departments within schools. Thus, a GRE score can range from being a mere admission formality to an important selection factor.

How important is the GRE in a graduate school application?

Graduate and business schools commonly use the GRE General Test to screen applicants. Some schools may require GRE Subject Tests to assess knowledge in specific fields of study, such as physics, psychology, biology, English literature, and chemistry.

Admissions and fellowship committees use GRE scores to supplement undergraduate records, including grades and recommendations, and other qualifications for graduate-level study. The scores help graduate educational institutions determine which applicants are academically prepared for graduate school.

In support of this, Kuncel et al. (2001), in their study “A comprehensive meta-analysis of the predictive validity of the Graduate Record Examinations: Implications for graduate student selection and performance," published in Psychological Bulletin, concluded that GRE scores are valid predictors of first-year and cumulative grade point averages (GPA), comprehensive examination scores, publication citation counts, and faculty ratings.

Graduate educational institutions designated by the test takers receive separate scores for each of the GRE General Test’s three sections: (1) Verbal Reasoning, (2) Quantitative Reasoning, and (3) Analytical Writing allowing graduate programs to place more emphasis on certain skills than others. Scores identify which potential students are likely to struggle academically in a particular skill, which can help programs plan for additional support to help those students succeed. Some GRE Subject Tests also produce sub-scores that provide additional information about strengths and weaknesses, which can be useful for student guidance and placement.

The amount of weight a program gives to GRE scores is frequently determined by how competitive admission to the program is. The more competitive programs are, the more critical it is for them to score limits.

What is a Good GRE Score?

About 10 to 15 days after the examination date, successful GRE test takers receive three scores: verbal and quantitative scores, ranging from 130 to 170, and an analytical writing score, ranging from 0 to 6. So, what’s a good GRE score? According to experts, what constitutes a good GRE score varies depending on the receiving graduate school or program. The relative importance of the score will differ by field and university. As a result, test takers must keep track of the GRE scores set by their prospective university for the course to which they wish to apply.

Knowing the average scores for each section can help find answers to the question, “what is a good GRE score?"

Average GRE scores

What is the average GRE score? The GRE has a “normal" distribution, and most test takers score within one standard deviation of the mean. Based on the performance of all individuals who tested between July 1, 2018, and June 30, 2021, the average GRE score for quantitative reasoning is 154.34; for verbal reasoning is 150.61; for analytical writing is 3.60. As a result, the overall average GRE score is 304.

Based on the ETS data, applicants tend to score higher on the GRE sections more relevant to their disciplines. As would be expected, future students in math-intensive fields such as chemistry, computer science, math, physics, engineering, and finance have higher average quantitative reasoning scores. On the other hand, students in writing-intensive disciplines such as English, history, philosophy, library science, and theology typically have high verbal reasoning scores. Meanwhile, prospective philosophy students have the highest average analytical writing score.

What then is the purpose of knowing the average scores in each GRE section? These average scores may help prospective test takers set their target scores.

When deciding on target GRE scores, students should look at the average for applicants in their desired field. The target score for a mid-level program must be several points higher than the average. For admission to a top-tier program, the target score must be significantly higher than the average, especially in the more relevant sections. As a result, average scores by the intended graduate field can be a useful comparative tool for determining how a student compares to other applicants in the chosen field.

For any specific program, the following things must be considered when calculating a good GRE score:

1. Some research into the prospective educational institution is necessary for calculating a good GRE score. Apart from the average score for the previous year’s batch, another topic that may require attention for investigation include the previous year’s class profile.
2. Analyzing the competitiveness of the candidate pool and the applicant’s candidacy may also be considered in gauging the range for a good GRE score. If the applicant pool is competitive, students must score a few points higher than the average to be accepted into the program.
3. Aspiring graduate school students should also assess what is a good GRE score by considering the average score for the targeted institution and evaluating the candidacy competitiveness. Thus, the percentile score distribution must be considered. For example, a 75th percentile score is acceptable, while a 90th percentile score is excellent.

Is a Graduate Degree the Only Route to Career Success?

For professionals evaluating the long-term return on investment of a graduate degree, alternative career pathways can offer significant benefits. Some candidates may find that focusing on industry-specific training and certifications provides a more direct route to career advancement. Specialized programs, such as trade certificate programs online, can develop practical skills that closely align with employer needs and economic trends. This approach is particularly valuable for those who prefer experiential learning over traditional academic metrics like GRE scores.

How is the GRE scored?

In determining what is a good GRE score for grad school admission, one may require an initial understanding of how the GRE is scored. Understanding the GRE’s composition and scoring system will clear up the matter.

Composition of GRE

The GRE is divided into three sections that assess verbal, quantitative, and critical writing abilities.

• Verbal Reasoning. This section evaluates, among other things, the test taker’s ability to draw conclusions, distinguish major and relevant points, and understand words and sentences. It is designed to assess the test taker’s ability to analyze and evaluate written material. This section also assesses their ability to process information gleaned from written material as well as see and analyze relationships between sentence parts.
• Quantitative Reasoning. This section assesses the test taker’s problem-solving ability using geometry, data analysis, and algebraic concepts. Test-takers must solve mathematical problems and interpret and analyze quantitative data.
• Analytical Writing. This part assesses the test taker’s critical thinking and analytical writing abilities, specifically how well they can articulate complex ideas and provide effective support for those concepts.

The GRE Scoring System

The GRE general test, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning sections are scored based on the number of correct answers to all of the questions in the operational sections. A raw score is calculated for each of the two measures.

The raw score is converted to a scaled score through a process known as “equating," in which minor differences in difficulty between test editions and section-level adaptation are accounted for. Thus, regardless of whether the second section was chosen or when the test was taken, a given scaled score for a specific measure reflects the same level of performance.

The analytical writing measure has a single score. Instead of grammar and mechanics, the section scores primarily on critical thinking and analytical writing abilities. Each essay is scored on a 6-point holistic scale by at least one trained rater. The essay is also graded using the ETS-developed e-rater scoring engine. If the human and e-rater engine scores are close, the average of the two is used as the final score. If they disagree, the final score is the average of the two human scores. The final scores on the two essays are then averaged and rounded to the nearest half-point interval on a 06 scale.

The current verbal and quantitative score scale is 130170, with one-point increments. Analytical writing is graded from 0 to 6 in half-point increments.

GRE Scoring Ranges

To estimate the good GRE score ranges for Ph.D. or any other graduate program, prospective test takers may refer to the GRE score range set for each section of the test.

For the general test, GRE scores range from 130 to 170 per section. Only the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections contribute to the total score. The maximum score is 340, and the range of combined scores is 260340.

The subject tests have a GRE score range of 200 to 900, with a 10-point increment. The scores for each test are calculated independently and should only be compared to other scores on the same subject test.

Additionally, the percentile ranks are used to calculate the GRE scores. The percentile ranking indicates how you compare to other candidates.

How to Get a Good Score on the GRE

With an understanding of how the GRE is scored, test-takers may want to know how to get a good GRE score. The following are two simple steps to getting a good score.

Set a Target Score

When setting a target score, it is critical to consider the cut-off scores provided by the prospective educational institution, rather than consider what is a good GRE score randomly. Each graduate school will have a different cutoff score, which must be met to be considered for admission.

Graduate educational institutions frequently provide cutoff scores in a range or a single average score. To allow for some margin of error or unforeseen circumstances in the exam, it is safest to choose the upper range limit or some points above the indicated average score when selecting the GRE target score.

Nevertheless, ETS discourages using the GRE as a cut score, even combined with an undergraduate GPA. Setting a required “minimum" GRE score to assess a large applicant pool is a misuse of the scores that may prevent candidates with other desirable qualities from being considered (ETS, n.d.).

Achieve the Targeted Score

Setting a target GRE score, however, may not be enough to answer the question of what is a good GRE score for graduate school admission. Each program sets a different score qualification. Thus, GRE scores that qualify someone for one graduate program may not qualify them for another. It is, therefore, crucial for applicants to understand the minimum GRE score needed for the program they are applying to, as some schools may have higher or lower requirements.

Graduate school admissions officers may be as interested in a candidate’s GRE percentiles, or the percentage of fellow test takers outperformed by the candidate on each section of the exam, as they are in actual GRE scores. GRE percentiles are used by the admissions office to determine whether or not applicants are qualified for admission.

Can nontraditional qualifications complement my GRE performance?

Admissions committees are increasingly recognizing that standardized test scores represent only one facet of a candidate’s potential. Evaluating attributes like practical experience, professional certifications, and specific skill sets can provide a more comprehensive view of an applicant’s readiness for graduate study. For example, performance demonstrated through competency based degree programs can signal mastery in relevant areas and the ability to apply knowledge effectively. Such alternative credentials may also highlight leadership, adaptability, and critical thinking skills—qualities that traditional metrics like GRE scores might not fully capture.

What additional factors strengthen your graduate school application?

Beyond standardized test results, admissions committees increasingly value diverse qualifications that demonstrate readiness for advanced study. Evidence of professional expertise—such as leadership roles, hands-on research, and industry-specific projects—provides tangible proof of a candidate's ability to contribute meaningfully in a rigorous academic environment. Pursuing specialized certificate programs and targeted professional certifications can substantiate technical competencies and bridge gaps between academic theory and practical application. Such supplemental credentials help create a balanced profile that aligns academic potential with real-world skills.

How much do GRE scores matter?

Graduate programs may require students to take and submit GRE scores as part of the admissions process. This is due in part to the educational institutions’ belief that GRE scores can predict academic performance and success in graduate school.

However, some educational institutions are dropping GRE scores as an admission requirement. The two main reasons behind this are the low correlation between the GRE and success in graduate school performance and the fact that the GRE serves as a barrier to having more diverse graduate program classes (Sullivan et al., 2022). Additionally, the financial costs of the GRE may potentially deter well-qualified applicants to graduate programs (Nelson, 2022).

The life sciences have been at the forefront of the so-called “GRExit movement" (Langin, 2019). In 2018, 44% of molecular biology Ph.D. programs no longer required GRE scores, and that rose to at least 50% for the 2019-2020 application cycle. Between 2016 and 2018, roughly one-third of programs in neuroscience and ecology dropped the GRE requirement. However, in some fields, the movement has not yet gained traction. In 2018, more than 90% of Ph.D. programs in chemistry, physics, geology, computer science, and psychology required general GRE scores. However, a few programs in those fields have also joined the exodus.

Nevertheless, studies that support the waiver of the GRE for getting into grad school may have missed the part of the GRE in the holistic review. According to Acereda et al. (2021), the importance of a process designed to consider the entire application is not to argue for one component over another but to explain why a variety of factors, including GRE scores, should be considered.

Furthermore, Woo et al. (2022), in their paper “Bias, Fairness, and Validity in Graduate-School Admissions: A Psychometric Perspective," published in Perspectives in Psychological Science, described the GRE as “not appear[ing] to be tainted by measurement bias, nor does it appear to suffer from predictive bias that would disadvantage students from underrepresented groups." Nonetheless, the researchers recommended, “that all graduate programs incorporate more standardization, objectivity, and transparency in their admission processes." Apart from the GRE, education institutions “have not explicitly mapped the other assessment methods onto ‘job-relevant’ constructs. Empirical studies have focused on the observed correlations and regression weights associated with measures, rather than constructs, of predictors for a limited set of the criterion measure." Thus, they suggested a need for a “clear mapping of predictor constructs of interest to the methods of assessment."

Wilson et al. (2019) argued in Life Sciences Education in their paper, “A Model for Holistic Review in Graduate Admissions That Decouples the GRE from Race, Ethnicity, and Gender," that the removal of GRE-based cut scores, combined with the implementation of holistic review practices that better account for nonacademic components of application packages, increases the number of underrepresented applicants reviewed by admission committee members. The paper contended that “[w]hile many institutions claim that their holistic applicant review mitigates the controversy over the validity of GRE scores, it remains unclear whether a committee’s admissions decision is linked to an applicant’s GRE scores. Specifically, statistical analyses that determine whether applicants’ admissions scores are correlated with their GRE scores are not available or are unclear. Thus, [they] provide an alternative use for the GRE in the process of admissions in a manner that assists with the assessment of applications during the admissions process."

All these facts support the importance of maintaining the GRE score requirement in graduate school admissions, thus, applicants should take the GRE seriously and prepare thoroughly.

Nonetheless, GRE test scores are not the only criterion for graduate school admission. GRE scores are just one factor that admissions officers for graduate schools consider when evaluating an applicant’s credentials. Applicants dissatisfied with their GRE scores should recognize that there are nonquantifiable aspects of the application where they can excel.

Although standardized test scores continue to dominate in evaluations of graduate applicant merit, a study published in Frontiers in Psychology in 2021 by Hernandez-Colon et al., entitled “Instructional Set Moderates the Effect of GRE on Faculty Appraisals of Applicant Competence: A Vignette Study With Implications for Holistic Review," concluded that “simple instructional sets can diminish the outsized effect of standardized test scores in judging applicants’ competence," which may have implications in the pursuit of the so-called inclusive excellence.

According to experts, low-test-score graduate school applicants can sometimes compensate by writing compelling admissions essays and submitting a strong resume. Additionally, many graduate programs exempt applicants with strong college grades or extensive work experience from taking the standardized test.

Nevertheless, what is a good GRE score for graduate school aspirants? Having good GRE scores to submit can mean more program options for the student. The more program options they have, the higher their chances of being accepted.

How Can I Compensate for a Less-Competitive GRE Score?

Applicants with GRE scores that do not fully meet their target benchmarks can strengthen their graduate applications by showcasing complementary qualifications. Integrating professional achievements, robust recommendation letters, and a focused statement of purpose demonstrates readiness beyond standardized test results. Additionally, strategic choices such as identifying academic programs that value holistic review—like the easiest master's program online to get into—can provide a viable alternative pathway. Emphasize skill-enhancing initiatives, targeted coursework, and practical experience to develop a well-rounded profile that addresses gaps in GRE performance.

How can test anxiety affect GRE performance and how can it be managed?

Test anxiety is a common issue that can significantly impact performance on the GRE. While the exam is designed to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, a test-taker's ability to perform well may be undermined by high levels of anxiety or stress. Understanding how anxiety affects GRE performance and employing strategies to manage it can make a significant difference in achieving a good score.

Here are some key factors related to test anxiety and strategies to overcome it:

• Physical and emotional symptoms: Test anxiety can manifest through physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, sweating, and rapid heartbeat. Emotionally, test-takers may feel overwhelmed, experience self-doubt, or have difficulty focusing on the questions.
• Negative impact on cognitive function: Anxiety can interfere with memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. This can result in poor performance, even for well-prepared individuals, as anxiety may prevent them from accessing the knowledge they have.
• Time management issues: High levels of anxiety may cause test-takers to rush through questions or linger too long on difficult problems, leading to poor time management during the exam.

Strategies to manage test anxiety:

• Preparation and practice: Regularly taking practice tests under simulated exam conditions can help reduce anxiety by increasing familiarity with the test format and improving time management skills.
• Relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness exercises can help calm nerves before and during the test.
• Positive mindset: Reframing thoughts to focus on the effort put into preparation rather than the outcome can help reduce the pressure felt by test-takers.
• Physical well-being: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet can improve overall resilience to stress and anxiety.

Should I retake the GRE?

Evaluating whether to retake the GRE involves a careful analysis of your sectional performance and alignment with your targeted graduate program requirements. Analyze your score breakdown to pinpoint areas where additional study could yield significant improvements. Consider structured review methods and personalized study plans if there are clear performance gaps. In some cases, supplementing your academic foundation through further coursework—such as pursuing an accredited online bachelor's degree—can reinforce the underlying skills tested by the GRE. Use objective score feedback to set realistic improvement goals and make an informed decision about scheduling a retake.

Can a Strong GRE Score Enhance My Career Prospects?

A robust GRE performance reflects strong analytical and problem-solving skills that many advanced programs value not only for admissions but also as indicators of future professional success. A competitive score can open doors to scholarships and fellowships, easing financial pressures while paving the way for further specialization. Additionally, aligning a high GRE score with comprehensive career planning may help identify lucrative fields and advanced degree pathways that lead to significant long-term gains. For example, candidates exploring opportunities in healthcare can review the highest-paying bachelor degrees in healthcare to gain insights into market trends and prospective career rewards.

What Are the GRE Fees and Preparation Investment Considerations?

GRE-related expenses extend beyond the registration fee to include practice materials, additional score reports, and preparation courses. Registration fees vary by region and testing mode, while supplemental costs—such as rescheduling, cancellation fees, and extra score reports—should be factored into overall planning. In addition, investing in quality study resources or prep courses can significantly influence performance, making it prudent to weigh these costs against potential long-term academic benefits. For prospective students considering accelerated or alternative educational paths, exploring options like 1 year masters degree programs may offer a balanced return on investment.

Ace the GRE

A good GRE score is subjective, as different educational institutions have different score requirements. As a result, a satisfactory score for admission to one program may not be sufficient for another. Additionally, the GRE is divided into three sections, each of which receives a different weight and ranking from graduate educational institutions.

However, setting a target GRE score based on the average score for a prospective program may support GRE success. Considering the upper limits of the average score ranges may also provide an advantage in determining what is a good GRE score to target.

Still, getting a good GRE score may depend on the preparedness of the test takers. Familiarizing themselves with the test format and topics, and answering GRE practice tests may help an applicant prepare for the GRE. Students may also subscribe to study tips and strategies to prepare for examinations. In the end, preparation for the GRE will depend on the amount of time one has available and personal preferences on how to prepare.

Key Insights

• Importance of GRE Scores: GRE scores are a critical component for admission into many graduate programs worldwide, with more than 1,300 business schools and over 80 law schools recognizing them.
• Types of GRE Tests: There are two main types of GRE tests: the General Test, which assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, and the Subject Test, which evaluates knowledge in specific fields such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
• Scoring and Validity: GRE scores range from 130 to 170 for verbal and quantitative sections and from 0 to 6 for analytical writing. These scores are valid for five years, allowing for flexibility in application timing.
• Average Scores and Targeting: The average GRE scores are 150.61 for verbal reasoning, 154.34 for quantitative reasoning, and 3.60 for analytical writing. Knowing these averages helps applicants set target scores based on their prospective programs.
• GRE's Role in Admissions: GRE scores serve as a standardized metric for evaluating the academic readiness of applicants, supplementing other qualifications like undergraduate records and recommendation letters.
• GRE Preparation: Successful GRE preparation involves setting a target score based on program requirements, familiarizing oneself with the test format, and practicing extensively using available resources and study strategies.

FAQ

1. What is the GRE and why is it important for graduate school admissions? The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It is used by many graduate schools worldwide to evaluate the academic readiness of applicants, providing a common metric for comparing candidates from diverse backgrounds.
2. What are the different types of GRE tests? There are two main types of GRE tests: the General Test and the Subject Test. The General Test evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, while the Subject Test assesses knowledge in specific fields such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
3. How is the GRE scored? The GRE General Test scores verbal and quantitative reasoning sections on a scale from 130 to 170 and the analytical writing section on a scale from 0 to 6. The Subject Test scores range from 200 to 900. Scores are valid for five years.
4. What constitutes a good GRE score? A good GRE score varies by program and institution. Generally, a score above the average (150.61 for verbal reasoning, 154.34 for quantitative reasoning, and 3.60 for analytical writing) is considered good. Applicants should aim for scores that are above the average for their desired programs to increase their chances of admission.
5. How can I prepare effectively for the GRE? Effective GRE preparation involves setting a target score based on the requirements of prospective programs, understanding the test format, and practicing regularly using study guides and practice tests. Utilizing study strategies and resources can also help in achieving a good score.
6. Do all graduate programs require GRE scores for admission? No, not all graduate programs require GRE scores. Some programs have waived the GRE requirement, particularly in fields like the life sciences, due to debates over its predictive validity and its impact on diversity. However, many programs still consider GRE scores an important component of the application.
7. How often can I take the GRE? The GRE General Test can be taken once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period. This allows applicants multiple opportunities to achieve their target scores.
8. What other factors do graduate schools consider besides GRE scores? Besides GRE scores, graduate schools consider undergraduate records, recommendation letters, personal statements, relevant work experience, and other qualifications. A strong application should highlight strengths in multiple areas to compensate for any weaknesses.
9. How do GRE scores impact the holistic review process in graduate admissions? While GRE scores are a significant factor, many graduate programs use a holistic review process that considers the entire application, including nonquantifiable aspects like personal statements and letters of recommendation. This approach helps in evaluating the overall potential and suitability of applicants for the program.

References

• Acereda, A., Ackerman, T., Augusto, J., Grijalva, C., Grasso, M. & Matson, S. (2021, June 21). Ignoring Key Data Points Can Make or Break Holistic Admissions. Inside Higher Ed. https://www.insidehighered.com/admissions/views/2021/06/21/universities-are-eliminating-gre-requirement-are-ignoring-key-evidence
• Bridgeman, B. & Cline, F. (2022). Can the GRE predict valued outcomes? Dropout and writing skill. PLoS ONE 17(6): e0268738. Retrieved from https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0268738
• Educational Testing Service. (2019). Graduate Record Examination (GRE): Guide to the use of scores. Retrieved from https://www.ets.org/s/gre/pdf/gre_guide.pdf
• Educational Testing Services. (n.d.). Admissions. The GRE Test. Retrieved on October 31, 2022,  from https://www.ets.org/gre/score-users/admissions.html
• Educational Testing Services. (n.d.). GRE Scores: At the Core of a Fair Graduate Admissions Process. Be Informed. ETS GRE. Retrieved from https://www.holisticadmissions.org/using-gre-scores/be-informed/
• Hernandez-Colón, I.R., Caño, A., Wurm, L.H., Sanders, G. & Nava, J. Instructional Set Moderates the Effect of GRE on Faculty Appraisals of Applicant Competence: A Vignette Study With Implications for Holistic Review. Frontiers in Psychology 12:749621. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.749621/full
• Kagan, J. (2022, July 27). Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Investopedia. Retrieved from https://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/gre.asp
• Kuncel, N.R., Hezlett, S.A. & Ones, D.S. (2001). A comprehensive meta-analysis of the predictive validity of the Graduate Record Examinations: Implications for graduate student selection and performance. Psychological Bulletin 127(1), 162181. Retrieved from https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2001-16276-008
• Langin, K. (2019, May 29). A wave of graduate programs drops the GRE application requirement. ScienceInsider. Retrieved from https://www.science.org/content/article/wave-graduate-programs-drop-gre-application-requirement
• National Center for Education Statistic. (n.d.). Digest of Education Statistics. Retrieved on October 31, 2022, from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_327.10.asp
• Nelson, M. (2022, February 23). Rackham to stop using GRE test in its Ph.D. admissions. The University Record. Retrieved from https://record.umich.edu/articles/rackham-to-stop-using-gre-test-in-its-ph-d-admissions/
• Sullivan, L.M., Velex, A.A., Longe, N., Larese, A.M. & Galea, S. (2022, September 26). Removing the Graduate Record Examination as an Admissions Requirement Does Not Impact Student Success. Public Health Review 43:1605023. Retrieved from https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2022.1605023/full
• Wilson, M.A., Odem, M.A., Walters, T., DePass, A.L. & Bean, A.J. (2019), A Model for Holistic Review in Graduate Admissions That Decouples the GRE from Race, Ethnicity, and Gender. CBE—Life Sciences Education 18(1). Retrieved from https://www.lifescied.org/doi/10.1187/cbe.18-06-0103
• Woo, S. E., LeBreton, J. M., Keith, M. G., & Tay, L. (2022). Bias, Fairness, and Validity in Graduate-School Admissions: A Psychometric Perspective. Perspectives on Psychological Science 0(0). Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/17456916211055374