What is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is an entrance exam required by many graduate and professional degree programs. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the GRE and its structure and content early on in the graduate school preparation process.
The GRE General Test includes questions that emphasize higher-order thinking skills that are important for success in graduate school such as application, synthesis, and analysis and includes 3 main areas: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
The GRE Subject Tests measure your knowledge in a particular field of study. Some graduate programs in psychology require applicants to take the Psychology GRE Subject Test. Before studying for and taking the Psychology Subject Test, make sure to research the admission requirements of the particular graduate programs to which you intend to apply to ensure the Subject Test is required.
When should I take the GRE?
GRE scores are generally valid for 5 years. At the latest, you should take the GRE a few months prior to your graduate school application deadlines. You can certainly take it sooner if you’ve studied adequately and feel prepared.
How should I study for the GRE?
The best way to study for the GRE varies from student to student. If you have strong organizational and time-management strategies, you may find that following your own individualized, self-created study plan works best. You can use a variety of free and paid online resources, apps, and books to study. If you find that you need the structure of a class to keep yourself on track with studying, there are numerous test preparation companies that offer a range of GRE prep courses. If you have benefited from individual tutoring in the past, you can also hire a GRE tutor. Some test preparation companies offer individual instruction/tutoring options, or you can look for a local private tutor.
There are a number of resources to access free full-lenth practice exams, including the GRE website. We recommend taking several full-length practice exams before taking the actual GRE.