The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE as it is more popularly known, is one of the largest assessment programs for admission to graduate courses worldwide, and it is administered by ETS (Education Testing Service). Students who want to apply for graduate schools in other countries must take the exam.
But what is the eligibility criteria for GRE? Or is there any age limit to take the exam? If you have such questions, this blog is further going to talk all about the GRE exam eligibility.
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Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the GRE 2021 do not need to meet any specific age or educational requirements; nevertheless, because the GRE is a test for entrance to graduate programs, aspirants must have completed their undergraduate programs successfully. Students should be aware that not all graduate programs and universities require a GRE score for admission. Whether or not an applicant is required to take the GRE depends solely on the university and the subject he/she is pursuing.
Hence it is always advisable for students to refer to the eligibility of the university that they are planning to apply.
Types of GRE
There are two types of GRE test:
General Test
The verbal reasoning, numeric abilities, and analytical writing skills are all assessed on the GRE General Test. The general test score is accepted by most universities, and the general exam is usually chosen by the majority of students. It takes place at various times throughout the year, and applicants can schedule their exam whenever they choose.
GRE Subject Test
The GRE Subject Test assesses a candidate’s knowledge in a specific subject area. Biochemistry (Cell and Molecular Biology), Biology, Chemistry, Literature (English), Maths, Physics, and Psychology are among the disciplines tested. Like an entrance exam, the exam is held on a set date for everyone. For specialist courses, this test is required.
Universities Requirements for GRE
It is a prevalent misperception that most MBA programs accept only GMAT scores. Universities in Canada that teach MBA programs don’t just call for GMAT scores; GRE scores are also widely accepted. So, if you want to pursue an MBA in Canada, make sure you’ve taken one of these two tests.
The United Kingdom, like many other nations, accepts GRE results for MBA programs at their universities. The fact that PGD courses are the most popular choice means that the number of universities accepting GRE scores is lower. Many American B-schools accept GRE scores in addition to GMAT scores for MBA admission. For MS courses, GRE scores are normally required, but this is changing. Many American business schools currently accept GRE results.
How to Register for GRE
Along with GRE eligibility criteria let us also discuss about the ways to register for the exam.
The test can be taken in a variety of ways. Aspirants can register in a variety of ways, including online and over the phone. In addition, candidates can register by mail or fax. Candidates will need a debit or credit card to pay the $213 registration fee and a valid passport to book a slot for the GRE test.
GRE Test Dates
Like other international standardised exams, the GRE has no set dates; you can take the exam whenever you like. You should schedule your exam at least two months before your initial application deadline. If your application is due in November, you should schedule a test date in September. If you need to retake the exam, you can do it again in October. As a result, you must make an informed decision about when you should begin your GRE prep.
GRE Score Validity
You GRE score is valid for five years.
Once you’ve received your GRE result, it’s sent to multiple university admissions committees for consideration. These universities will look at your score as well as your other documentation, such as undergraduate results, recommendation letters, and records of previous courses or degrees you’ve taken.
Exam Sections, to Understand the Test More
The GRE, which is administered by ETS, is taken at over 1000 test centers in 160 countries across the world.
For the Computer-Based Test:
- Verbal Reasoning: Two 30-minute sections – 20 questions per section.
- Analytical Writing: One section with two separately timed writing tasks – 30 minutes per task.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Two 30-minute sections – 20 questions per section.
For Paper-Based Test:
- Verbal Reasoning: Two 35-minute sections – 25 questions per section.
- Analytical Writing: Two sections, each with one writing task – 30 minutes per section.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Two 40-minute sections – 25 questions per section.
Final Takeaway
Given the duration and length of the GRE test format, taking the exam can be challenging. As a result, all GRE prep institutes teach their students time-saving techniques like rapid computations, finger-tip formulas, and time management. The most important lesson here is time management, which can only be learned by extensive practice using sample papers and mock examinations. Even if you are familiar with the GRE exam Syllabus and have memorised all of the techniques, failing to manage time can result in an incomplete exam. It is critical to be familiar with the test pattern.
And there are number of reliable GRE online coaching classes which can help you provide the right study material, which will further help you to understand the exam better.
