The GRE General Test is now a computer-delivered test with several design changes that enhance test-taker flexibility and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the current test structure and timing for those taking the exam on or after September 22, 2023.
Test Sections and Timing:
- Overall Test Duration: 1 hour and 58 minutes
- Total Number of Sections: Five
| Measure | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | One “Analyze an Issue” task | 30 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | Section 1: 12 questions | 18 minutes |
| Section 2: 15 questions | 23 minutes | |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Section 1: 12 questions | 21 minutes |
| Section 2: 15 questions | 26 minutes |
The Analytical Writing section will always be the first, followed by the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections, which may appear in any order.
Test Structure Before September 22, 2023
Before the change, the GRE General Test had a slightly longer duration of about 3 hours and 45 minutes with six sections and a 10-minute break following the third section.
| Measure | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | One “Analyze an Issue” task and one “Analyze an Argument” task | 30 minutes per task |
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 questions per section | 30 minutes per section |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 20 questions per section | 35 minutes per section |
| Unscored | Varies | Varies |
| Research | Varies | Varies |
The Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and unscored/research sections could appear in any order, meaning test-takers needed to treat each section as if it were scored.
Key Features of the GRE General Test:
- Section-Level Adaptation:
- The GRE is adaptive by section. The first section of Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning is of average difficulty.
- The difficulty of the second section depends on your performance on the first. For example, if you do well in the first section of Quantitative Reasoning, the second section will have more difficult questions.
- The score reflects the number of questions answered correctly across both sections, as well as the difficulty level of those sections.
- Test Design Features:
- Preview and Review Capabilities: You can review and preview your responses within each section, allowing flexibility to adjust answers as needed.
- Mark and Review Feature: Allows you to skip questions, tag them for review, and return to them later if time allows.
- Answer Editing: You can change and edit your answers within a section during the allotted time.
- On-Screen Calculator: A calculator is available for use during the Quantitative Reasoning section to assist with calculations.
Flexible Test-Taker Experience:
The GRE General Test offers greater flexibility with the following features:
- Skipping Questions: You can skip questions within a section and come back to them later if time allows.
- Changing Answers: You have the option to change your answers as long as it is within the time limit for that section.
- Section Ordering Flexibility: The Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections may appear in any order, providing you with some level of adaptability in how you approach the test.
This more flexible, computer-based design provides a test-taking experience tailored to allow students to perform at their best by reducing unnecessary stress while taking the test.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test designed for admission to graduate management programs, including MBA (Master of Business Administration) and other business-related programs. Conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the GMAT measures a candidate’s analytical, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in written English.
Test Format of GMAT:
- Analytical Writing Assessment (1 essay – 30 minutes):
- Requires the test taker to critique an argument. This tests your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas effectively in writing.
- Integrated Reasoning (12 questions – 30 minutes):
- Measures your ability to analyze data presented in multiple formats, such as tables, graphs, and text.
- Includes question types like multi-source reasoning, table analysis, graphics interpretation, and two-part analysis.
- Quantitative Reasoning (31 questions – 62 minutes):
- Tests basic math skills, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
- The questions are designed to test your ability to reason quantitatively and solve problems.
- Verbal Reasoning (36 questions – 65 minutes):
- Measures the ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written text to conform to standard written English.
Scoring:
- Verbal Reasoning: 0–60
- Quantitative Reasoning: 0–60
- Integrated Reasoning: 1–8
- Analytical Writing: 0–6
- Total GMAT Score: 200–800
The total score is the combination of the Verbal and Quantitative sections, ranging from 200 to 800.
Purpose of the GMAT:
- Primarily used for admission to business schools offering MBA and similar programs.
- Many top business schools worldwide use the GMAT score as a primary factor in admissions decisions.
- Helps institutions assess applicants’ academic readiness for business education and their ability to handle complex problem-solving and decision-making tasks.
SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. Administered by the College Board, the SAT is designed to assess a student’s readiness for college and is widely used for undergraduate admissions.
Test Format of SAT:
- Reading (52 questions – 65 minutes):
- Measures reading comprehension and the ability to analyze texts from a variety of genres, including fiction, history, and science.
- Focuses on interpreting data and drawing conclusions based on the passage.
- Writing and Language (44 questions – 35 minutes):
- Tests the ability to revise and edit written text, including grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and style.
- Focuses on improving the clarity and effectiveness of written communication.
- Math (58 questions – 80 minutes):
- Divided into two parts: one allowing the use of a calculator and one without the use of a calculator.
- Topics include algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math (such as trigonometry and geometry).
- Essay (Optional – 50 minutes):
- Although optional, some colleges require the SAT essay. The essay measures writing skills and your ability to develop and support an argument based on a provided passage.
Scoring:
- Reading and Writing (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing): 200–800
- Math: 200–800
- Total SAT Score: 400–1600
The combined score is the sum of the Reading and Writing and Math sections, with a maximum score of 1600.
Purpose of the SAT:
- Primarily used for college admissions in the United States, including undergraduate programs.
- Assesses a student’s readiness for college and helps admissions officers evaluate academic skills, including reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning.
- Many U.S. colleges and universities use the SAT score as part of the selection criteria for admission and scholarships.
Comparison of GRE, GMAT, and SAT:
| Test | Purpose | Primary Use | Duration | Total Score | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRE | Graduate programs (Masters, PhD) | Graduate school admissions | 1 hours 58 minutes | 260–340 | Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing |
| GMAT | Business school admissions (MBA) | Graduate management programs | 3 hours 30 minutes | 200–800 | Analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative and verbal reasoning |
| SAT | College admissions (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate college admissions | 3 hours | 400–1600 | Reading, writing and language, mathematics |
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