What’s the GRE (2025)?

If you’re even thinking about grad school, you’ve probably seen three letters pop up over and over again: GRE. But like… what is the GRE actually? Do you need it? How hard is it? And why do so many people stress over it?

Alright, fam—grab a snack, get cozy, and let’s break it all the way down. 💬📚

1. So… What Is the GRE?

Alright, let’s keep it 💯—the GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination, and it’s basically a big standardized test that a lot of grad schools use to size you up before offering you a spot in one of their programs.

Think of it as the adulting version of the SAT, but for folks trying to slide into a master’s or PhD program. Whether you’re planning to study psychology, data science, public health, engineering, business, or even something law-adjacent, the GRE might be part of your application checklist. Yep—some law schools now accept GRE scores instead of the LSAT. Wild, right?

So, what’s the point of it? The GRE helps schools see how well you can handle grad-level thinking and problem-solving, no matter what your major was in undergrad. It’s not about memorizing random facts—it’s more like a test of your reasoning, writing, math, and reading skills. Basically, stuff you’ve picked up over time through school, work, and life experience.

The GRE is created and managed by ETS (Educational Testing Service), which is this massive nonprofit org that’s also behind other tests like the TOEFL. They’ve been running this test since the 1930s, so yeah—it’s been around.

Now, the format: most people take the computer-based version at official test centers (or even at home in some cases), but there’s also a paper-based option offered in some areas where tech setups are limited. Either way, the structure and scoring stay consistent, so you’re not missing out whichever version you get.

So to sum it up: the GRE is your academic flex in test form. Schools use it to get a quick read on your readiness for grad school, and while it’s not the only thing they look at, it can definitely boost your app if you crush it.

Still got your eye on a grad program? Then yeah, the GRE might just be on your radar.

Absolutely! Here’s a deep and clean breakdown of that section—keeping the tone lively and relatable while expanding on all the key points:

2. Who Even Takes the GRE?

So, who’s signing up to take the GRE? It’s not just one type of student, and it’s definitely not only for straight-A overachievers. It’s actually pretty common among a whole mix of people who are thinking about grad school for different reasons.

Let’s break it down:

🎓 Undergrad Students About to Graduate

If you’re in your final year of college and already dreaming about that next academic move, the GRE is probably on your to-do list. Especially if your future plans involve a master’s or PhD in something like psychology, public policy, economics, computer science, or whatever your niche is. Some folks even take it during the summer between junior and senior year to get it out of the way early.

📅 Recent Grads Who Want to Apply Within a Year or Two

You graduated, you took a little breather (because burnout is real), and now you’re ready to go back and earn that next degree. The GRE fits into this plan perfectly—since scores are valid for 5 years, you’ve got a good window to figure out what program you want without rushing your application timeline.

💼 Professionals Leveling Up

Not everyone goes to grad school straight out of undergrad. Plenty of people spend a few years working, then realize they’re ready to go deeper into their field—or pivot into something new. Whether you’re trying to move up in your current industry, switch into something more research-heavy, or chase a completely different path, a solid GRE score can help your application shine, especially if it’s been a minute since you were last in school.

🔄 Career Changers

If you’re looking to switch lanes—say from marketing to data science or from finance to clinical psychology—the GRE can be a great way to prove your academic readiness, even if your undergrad degree wasn’t in that field. It tells admissions committees, “Hey, I’ve got the skills, even if my résumé looks a little different.”

3. What Does the GRE Test You On?

Okay, here’s the meat of it: What’s actually on the GRE? What are they testing, and what kind of brainpower do you need to bring?

The GRE is split into three main sections, and each one is designed to test a different type of skill that grad schools want to see. It’s not about memorizing random trivia or cramming niche formulas. Instead, the GRE’s trying to get a read on how you think, write, read, and solve problems—stuff that’s relevant across almost every academic field.

Let’s break it all down:

✍️ Analytical Writing (aka “You got 30 minutes, impress us!”)

This part of the test is all about writing clearly and thinking critically. It’s split into two timed essays, and you’ll have 30 minutes for each:

1. The Issue Task
   You’ll get a prompt with a broad statement (like something about tech, education, or ethics), and you’ll need to take a position and defend it with solid reasoning and examples. Think of it like a mini-opinion piece, but smarter and more structured.
2. The Argument Task
   Here, you’re not sharing your own opinion. Instead, you’ll read a short argument that someone else made, and your job is to critique its logic. Basically, you’re pointing out flaws, gaps, or weak spots in their reasoning—like a baby philosopher.

Scoring: Between 0 and 6, in half-point increments. Essays are graded by a combo of human readers and an AI scoring system, just to keep things balanced.

📖 Verbal Reasoning (not just “big words” stuff)

This section checks how well you can understand and analyze written material, figure out what words mean in context, and spot logical connections. It’s split across two short sections—each with 20 questions—and you’ve got about 18 minutes per section.

Here’s what they throw at you:

• Reading Comprehension: Long and short passages with questions about main ideas, tone, structure, or specific details
• Text Completion: Sentences with blanks where you choose the right words to complete the meaning
• Sentence Equivalence: Sentences with one blank and two correct answers that both create the same meaning (yep, trickier than it sounds)

Scoring: You’ll get a score from 130 to 170, in 1-point jumps. It’s less about knowing a dictionary’s worth of words and more about showing that you can read smart and think logically.

🔢 Quantitative Reasoning (aka GRE math—but chill, it’s not calculus)

This is where the GRE tests your basic math skills and your ability to apply logic to solve problems. Think of it like smart high school math—not super advanced, but it definitely expects you to know what you’re doing.

Expect questions in areas like:

• Arithmetic & Number Properties
• Algebra & Equations
• Geometry
• Data Interpretation & Probability

Question types include:

• Multiple-choice (sometimes with more than one correct answer)
• Numeric Entry (you type in your own answer)
• Quantitative Comparison (where you compare two quantities and pick which is bigger—or if they’re equal)

Scoring: Also from 130 to 170, in 1-point increments. You get two 21-minute sections, each with 20 questions.

And don’t worry, you get an on-screen calculator for the math stuff (but using it wisely is a whole strategy in itself).

💡 Bonus Tip: The Test is Section-Level Adaptive

The GRE doesn’t switch difficulty after each question, but it does adjust based on how you perform in the first part of a section. Do well in your first Verbal or Quant section? The second one will be harder (but also gives you a shot at a higher score). Kinda flopped the first part? The second one might be easier, but it could cap your score range.

So yeah—it pays to be focused from the jump.

4. How Long Is the GRE?

Okay, let’s talk time commitment. The GRE used to be a marathon—like nearly 4 hours long. But as of 2023, ETS trimmed the fat and gave us a shorter, more focused version that now clocks in at just under 2 hours (about 1 hour and 58 minutes, to be exact).

That means less mental burnout and more efficient test-day vibes. But don’t let the shorter time fool you—it still packs a lot into those two hours.

Here’s how it breaks down:

✍️ Analytical Writing – 30 minutes total

This is the very first section you’ll face. You’ll write one essay—analyzing an issue. That’s it. They used to make you write two essays (issue + argument), but that second one got the axe in the new format.

• ⏱ Time: 30 minutes
• 🧠 Tip: Since it’s first, show up ready to think clearly and write with structure from the jump.

📖 Verbal Reasoning – Two sections, 18 minutes each

Next, you’ll tackle two quick sections of verbal questions. Each one is just 18 minutes long, so the pace is fast. You’ve got to manage your time smartly here.

• ⏱ Total: 36 minutes
• 📚 That’s 20 questions per section—covering reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.

🔢 Quantitative Reasoning – Two sections, 21 minutes each

Now comes the math part. Again, two sections, but these ones are a little longer—21 minutes each—since the questions tend to be more calculation-heavy.

• ⏱ Total: 42 minutes
• 🔍 You’ll see all the classic GRE math stuff here: word problems, data interpretation, number properties, etc.

❓Experimental or Research Section – Might show up

Here’s the catch: some people get a “mystery” section at the end—either experimental or research. This section doesn’t count toward your score, but it’s not labeled, so you won’t know which section it is while you’re taking it.

• Could be Verbal or Quant, and it looks just like the regular ones.
• If you see an extra section and you’re wondering why… yep, this is it.
• Not everyone gets it though, so don’t be surprised either way.

🧘🏽‍♀️ Breaks

• You get a 1-minute breather after each section—just enough time to stretch, blink a lot, and refocus.
• After the third section, you’ll get a 10-minute break—take it seriously. Hydrate, breathe, maybe do a power pose in the bathroom mirror.

All in, from the moment you start to when you’re done (including breaks), the GRE takes a little under 2 hours. It’s quick compared to the old version, but still a mental workout—so pacing yourself and staying sharp throughout really matters.

5. Where and When Can You Take It?

The GRE isn’t just a one-day, one-place kind of thing. It’s actually super flexible in terms of when and where you can take it—which is a huge win if you’re balancing school, work, or life in general.

Let’s get into the logistics:

🌍 Where Can You Take the GRE?

You’ve got options. Big ones.

The GRE is offered at over 1,000 test centers in more than 160 countries, so chances are there’s a location near you—whether you’re in the U.S., Europe, Asia, Africa, or anywhere else.

• If you’re in or near a big city, you’re almost guaranteed to have a test center nearby.
• Smaller towns might not have one on-site, but you can usually find a center within a reasonable drive or train ride.
• Test centers are typically located in universities, professional testing offices, or Prometric-run centers.

And yes—all testing is done in English, no matter where you are.

🏠 At-Home Testing (U.S. + some other regions)

Here’s a game-changer: If you live in the United States, or in certain eligible countries, you can now take the GRE from the comfort of your own home. 😌

• You’ll still need to schedule a slot, show ID, and be monitored online via webcam by a live proctor.
• You’ll also need a quiet room, a reliable computer, stable internet, and a clean workspace (they’re strict about the rules).
• It’s the same test, same structure, same scoring—just minus the trip to a center.

This is especially helpful if you live far from a test center or just prefer a calm, familiar space.

📅 When Can You Take It?

The GRE is offered year-round, which means you’re not limited to a single test date (unlike some other exams 👀).

• Computer-based version: Available on multiple days each month, depending on your location and the test center’s schedule.
• Paper-based version (in areas without access to computer-based testing): Usually offered up to 3 times per year—in October, November, and February.

So yeah, you’ve got a lot of freedom to plan your test around your application deadlines, your schedule, and even your energy levels.

🔁 How Often Can You Take It?

If you want to retake the GRE, no problem—but there are rules:

• You can take the test once every 21 days
• Up to 5 times within any 12-month period

That means if you bomb it or just want to boost your score, you’ve got multiple shots. But you still need to plan smart—especially if you’re applying to schools with early deadlines.

💵 How Much Does It Cost?

The test fee is $205 USD in most countries. But good news: ETS offers a Fee Reduction Program for:

• U.S. citizens or permanent residents who demonstrate financial need
• Students who are part of national programs supporting underrepresented groups (like McNair Scholars)

If you qualify, the fee drops to around $100, which includes one free practice test and four free score reports.

Heads-up though: fees and reduction options can vary depending on your location—so definitely check the ETS website or reach out to your school’s financial aid office for the deets.

So yeah, the GRE is pretty accessible, both in terms of location and scheduling. Whether you’re trying to test next week or three months from now, you’ve got control over when and where you make it happen.

6. How Long Are GRE Scores Valid?

Here’s one of the more chill facts about the GRE: your scores are valid for 5 years. 🙌🏽

That means once you take the test, you’ve got a solid five-year window to use those scores when applying to grad programs. Whether you’re ready to apply right away or want to take your time, you’re covered.

⏳ Why This 5-Year Rule Matters

Let’s say you’re still figuring things out—you’re working, traveling, building experience, or just not in a rush. No problem. You can:

• Take the GRE now while you’re still in “study mode”
• Apply later, when the timing feels right
• Avoid retaking it unless you really want to improve your score

It’s especially helpful for folks who:

• Want to apply to multiple grad programs over a few years
• Are waiting for funding, research opportunities, or personal life stuff to line up
• Just want to get the GRE out of the way early while they’ve still got that academic momentum

📆 How It’s Counted

The 5-year countdown starts from the exact date you take the test. So if you took the GRE on March 24, 2025, your scores will be valid through March 24, 2030. After that, they expire and poof—you’d need to retake the exam if you want to apply somewhere new.

🗂 Where the Score Lives

Your score report lives in your ETS account, and you can send it to schools whenever you’re ready—within that 5-year period. You get 4 free score reports to use within a few days of your test, and after that, additional score sends cost a small fee per school.

❗Heads-Up: Schools Have Their Own Policies

Some grad programs are super strict and only accept scores that are still officially valid (within 5 years). But others might say, “If your score is a little older but still reflects your ability, we’ll look at it.”

Moral of the story: Always check your target school’s admissions page. If you’re getting close to the 5-year mark, it’s worth confirming whether they’ll still accept your scores.

7. What’s a Good GRE Score?

Let’s keep it real: there’s no one-size-fits-all “good” GRE score. What counts as impressive totally depends on the school, the program, and even what you’re applying for within that program.

But don’t stress—there are some general benchmarks to help you figure out where you stand and what to aim for.

🎯 What’s Considered “Average” vs. “Excellent”?

Let’s look at the numbers real quick:

These are based on data from ETS and give you a rough idea of where the general test-taking crowd lands. So if you’re scoring around those averages, you’re in decent shape. But if you’re trying to stand out—especially at competitive programs—shooting for scores in that top 10–15% range will help.

🧠 It’s Not Just the Number—It’s What You’re Applying For

Here’s the trick: different programs care about different sections.

• STEM programs (engineering, computer science, econ, etc.) usually care a lot more about your Quantitative score.
• Humanities, social sciences, and communication-related programs? They’ll be much more interested in your Verbal and Analytical Writing scores.
• Psych and clinical programs often want to see strong scores in all three areas, but especially Analytical Writing.
• Some business schools (especially if they accept GRE instead of GMAT) tend to look closely at Quant, but they still want to see that you can write and read critically.

📊 Score Percentiles: What Do They Mean?

GRE percentiles tell you how your score compares to everyone else’s. For example:

• A Verbal score of 160 puts you in about the 85th percentile—better than 85% of test-takers.
• A Quant score of 168 puts you in the top 10%, which is 💯.
• A Writing score of 5 is also high, since most people sit around the 3.5–4 mark.

Percentiles matter because some schools list minimum percentile cutoffs—especially in competitive fields like economics or public health.

🧩 Other Factors That Affect What “Good” Means

Even a great GRE score won’t carry your app alone. Admissions committees look at:

• GPA
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Research/work experience
• Fit with the program

So if your GRE score isn’t exactly where you want it to be, but the rest of your app is 🔥, you’ve still got a shot.

🔁 Should You Retake the GRE?

If you took the test and scored lower than the average for your target schools—or if one section is wayyy lower than the others—you might want to consider retaking it. ETS lets you choose which scores to send (thanks to ScoreSelect), so schools won’t even know how many times you’ve tested unless you tell them.

8. Do You Have to Take the GRE?

Short answer? Not necessarily. The days of the GRE being a must-have for every grad school application are definitely fading.

👋🏽 The GRE Requirement Is No Longer Universal

Over the last few years—especially post-2020—a huge number of grad programs have taken a step back and said, “You know what? Maybe we don’t need this test.” Some did it temporarily at first (pandemic-era flexibility), but a lot of schools realized that removing the GRE:

• Helped reduce barriers for students from diverse or under-resourced backgrounds
• Didn’t negatively impact the quality of applicants
• Let them focus more on other parts of the app—like research experience, personal statements, and GPA

So yeah, now we’re seeing three main approaches across schools:

📌 1. GRE Optional

This means you can submit your scores if you want, but you’re not required to. It’s a bit of a “your call” situation.

• If your scores are strong and could boost your application, go for it.
• If standardized testing isn’t your strong suit, and the rest of your app is solid, you can skip it—no harm done.

Programs often say something like “Submitting scores may strengthen your application,” but don’t panic if you don’t have them.

🚫 2. GRE Not Accepted

Some schools have gone a step further and said they won’t look at GRE scores at all—even if you send them.

This is becoming common in fields like:

• Public Health
• Education
• Social Work
• Some Humanities + Social Sciences

It’s actually great news for a lot of folks who would rather show their strengths through work experience, writing samples, or interviews instead.

✅ 3. GRE Required

Yep, some programs still want to see those scores.

This is especially true for:

• Highly competitive PhD programs (like Econ, Neuroscience, Engineering)
• Some business schools (especially if you’re not submitting GMAT scores)
• Certain international programs or universities with strict admissions policies

In these cases, the GRE may still carry real weight—especially in areas like Quantitative Reasoning.

📍Always Check Each Program Directly

Here’s the thing: there’s no universal rule. Even within the same university, one department might be test-optional, while another still requires it.

So your best move? Go directly to the grad program’s admissions page or email the admissions coordinator if it’s unclear. Look for phrases like:

• “GRE not required”
• “Optional but recommended”
• “Required for all applicants”

And make sure you’re checking the most recent admissions cycle—some schools change policies every year.

So no, you don’t always have to take the GRE—but depending on your goals and where you’re applying, it might still make sense.

9. GRE vs GMAT: What’s the Difference?

Alright, let’s clear this up—because this question always comes up when people are looking at grad school, especially business programs.

If you’re applying to an MBA, business analytics, or even finance program, you’ve probably heard about the GMAT. So now you’re wondering: Should I take the GRE or the GMAT?

Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense:

🧠 What’s the GRE Again?

You already know the GRE is a general graduate admissions test. It’s accepted across tons of different fields—not just business. That includes:

• Psychology
• Public Policy
• Education
• STEM programs
• And yes, MBA and business master’s programs

It’s broad and flexible, which is great if you’re still figuring out your path or applying to programs in more than one field.

💼 What’s the GMAT?

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a test specifically designed for business school applicants. So if you’re 100% locked in on going for an MBA or a business-related master’s, this exam was literally built for that purpose.

It tests:

• Quantitative reasoning
• Verbal reasoning
• Integrated reasoning
• Analytical writing

It’s got its own structure and style, and the math section? It’s known to be a little more intense and logic-heavy than the GRE’s.

🤝 So Which Do Business Schools Prefer?

The vibe today? Most business schools are cool with either one.

That’s right—most top MBA programs now accept the GRE and the GMAT equally, including places like:

• Harvard Business School
• Wharton (UPenn)
• Stanford GSB
• MIT Sloan
• Columbia, Kellogg, Booth—you name it

So if you’re better at one than the other? Go with your strength.

📊 Key Differences at a Glance

🧠 Which One Should You Take?

Take the GRE if:

• You’re applying to both MBA and non-MBA grad programs
• You’re stronger in language and writing than hardcore math
• You’re more comfortable with GRE-style questions and timing

Take the GMAT if:

• You’re only applying to business school
• You’re confident with advanced quant and logic-heavy questions
• You want to go the traditional MBA application route

Some competitive business schools might give a slight edge to GMAT scores if they’re used to seeing that format—but it’s not a dealbreaker at all. Admissions officers just want the best candidates, no matter which test they took.

So don’t overthink it—pick the test that fits you, your strengths, and your plans. Either way, as long as you prep well and score strong, you’ll be good.

10. How Do You Prepare for the GRE?

Let’s be real—you can’t wing the GRE and expect to crush it. This test isn’t impossible, but it definitely takes intentional prep. Especially because it’s not just testing what you know, but how you think, how you manage time, and how well you can stay focused under pressure.

But the good news? There are tons of resources out there—both free and paid—to help you get ready without losing your mind.

📋 Step-by-Step: How to Start Your GRE Prep

1. Figure Out Your Timeline

How soon are you planning to apply to grad school? Count backwards from your earliest application deadline and make room for:

• Prep time (1–3 months is typical)
• A possible retake (just in case)
• Time to send scores

If you’ve got 3+ months, that’s ideal. But even if you’re on a tight schedule, you can still make it work.

2. Take a Diagnostic Test First

Before anything else, take a full-length practice GRE—no studying, no pressure.

This helps you:

• See where you currently stand
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses
• Know which sections need more love (Verbal, Quant, Writing)

You can get free official practice tests from ETS’s PowerPrep software, which mimics the actual test experience.

3. Pick Your Study Tools

There’s no one “best” prep resource—it depends on your style, budget, and how deep you want to go. But here are some of the most popular (and proven) ones:

🛠️ Free + Legit Resources

• ETS PowerPrep: Two full-length practice exams from the test makers
• ETS GRE Official Guide (PDFs or book): Sample questions straight from the source
• YouTube channels like GregMat, Dominate the GRE, and Veritas Prep: Great for walkthroughs and visual learners
• Reddit’s r/GRE: Real talk from other test-takers, study plans, debriefs, and strategy discussions
• Free question banks from Magoosh or Manhattan Prep’s trial accounts

📘 Paid Options (If You Want More Structure)

• Magoosh: Affordable, flexible, tons of video explanations and timed quizzes
• Manhattan Prep: Known for tough practice problems and high-level strategies
• Kaplan & Princeton Review: Solid if you like structured courses and live instruction
• Private tutors (online or in-person): Helpful if you’re struggling with one section or need custom strategies

4. Build a Study Plan That Works for You

You don’t need to study 6 hours a day to succeed. What matters is consistency and quality.

A basic 8-week plan might look like this:

• Weeks 1–2: Review content basics (math concepts, grammar rules, essay structure)
• Weeks 3–5: Focus on one section per day, practice daily with timed sets
• Weeks 6–7: Start doing full-length practice tests under test-like conditions
• Week 8: Review mistakes, sharpen strategy, and rest before test day

🧠 Don’t just do a bunch of questions—review the ones you got wrong. That’s where the learning happens.

5. Simulate the Real Test Experience

At least two weeks before your test date, start doing full-length timed practice tests to:

• Build stamina
• Get used to pacing
• Practice breaks and focus techniques

Use the same calculator allowed on the test. Sit at a desk, no distractions. Treat it like the real thing.

6. Prep for the Writing Section (Don’t Skip This)

A lot of people ignore Analytical Writing until the last minute—but don’t do that.

ETS actually publishes the full list of prompts they pull from for the Issue and Argument tasks. Review those and:

• Practice outlining essays quickly
• Use examples from real-world events, personal experience, or history
• Focus on clear structure: intro → body paragraphs → conclusion

You don’t have to be a novelist—you just need to be organized, logical, and clear.

🧘🏽‍♀️ Don’t Burn Out

GRE prep can be intense. Mix it up:

• Alternate between Verbal and Quant days
• Take breaks (for real)
• Track your progress—nothing feels better than watching your score climb

And remember: it’s okay to retake it. Most people do. What matters is that you show growth and stay steady.

11. GRE Subject Tests? What’s That?

So you’ve probably heard of the GRE General Test, right? That’s the one most people take—it covers writing, math, and verbal reasoning. But there’s also something called the GRE Subject Tests, which are a whole different thing.

These are designed for students who are applying to grad programs in very specific fields and want (or need) to show off their deep knowledge in that subject.

🎯 What Are GRE Subject Tests?

GRE Subject Tests are standardized exams focused entirely on one academic discipline. They go way deeper than the general GRE and are meant to highlight your expertise in a particular area—basically, to show admissions committees you know your stuff.

They’re used in admissions decisions for programs that are super academic or research-focused, like PhDs in physics or math-heavy fields.

📚 What Subjects Are Still Offered?

As of 2025, ETS only offers three Subject Tests:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Psychology

That’s it. Every other subject test—like Biology, Chemistry, Literature, or Computer Science—has been discontinued.

So unless you’re applying to a program that explicitly asks for one of these three, you probably don’t need to stress about them.

🔍 Why Did They Phase the Others Out?

Over the past decade, there’s been a major shift in grad admissions. Programs started relying more on things like:

• GPA
• Research experience
• Writing samples
• Letters of recommendation

Subject tests just weren’t being used as much. And honestly, schools are realizing there are better ways to evaluate applicants than asking them to take another standardized test.

So instead of keeping all the extras around, ETS focused on the few that are still in demand—mostly in the hard sciences.

📅 When & How Can You Take Them?

• These are paper-based tests, not computer-based like the General GRE.
• They’re usually offered just a few times a year (typically in September, October, and April).
• You have to register early and find a test center that actually offers the subject you need—so don’t wait till the last minute.

🤔 Do You Need a Subject Test?

Most grad programs don’t require Subject Tests anymore—but some might recommend or even strongly encourage them, especially:

• PhD programs in Physics or Math at top-tier research universities
• Certain Psychology grad programs with a scientific or clinical focus

So here’s the move: check the admissions requirements for each program you’re applying to. If they don’t mention a Subject Test, you’re probably good. If they do, it’ll be crystal clear on their website.

So yeah, while GRE Subject Tests are still a thing, they’re definitely niche now. Unless you’re going deep into math, physics, or psych, chances are you can skip them and focus on the GRE General Test instead.

12. Is the GRE Biased? (Let’s Talk)

Alright, let’s not sugarcoat it—the GRE has faced a lot of criticism, and it’s important to talk about it openly, especially if you’re part of a group that’s historically underrepresented in higher ed.

For all its structure and scoring systems, the GRE isn’t without its flaws. And schools are starting to admit that too.

🧩 Bias Against Underrepresented Groups

One of the biggest concerns is that the GRE may reflect systemic inequality more than actual academic ability.

Studies have shown that test scores can be influenced by:

• Access to quality test prep
• Familiarity with standardized testing culture
• Language nuances that may disadvantage non-native English speakers
• Socioeconomic factors (not everyone can drop hundreds on prep courses or take time off work to study)

On top of that, racial and gender disparities in average scores have been reported for decades. That doesn’t mean the GRE is inherently evil—but it does mean we need to ask who benefits from the way it’s used.

📉 Weak Predictor of Long-Term Success

Another legit critique? The GRE isn’t always a strong indicator of how someone will actually perform in grad school.

Like sure, it can predict who might do well in their first year of coursework—but it doesn’t measure things like:

• Research ability
• Creativity
• Work ethic
• Emotional intelligence
• Collaboration skills

All of which are key to surviving and thriving in a master’s or PhD program.

In fact, some professors have straight up said that students with lower GRE scores sometimes end up being stronger researchers because they bring resilience, original thinking, or unique real-world experience.

😰 Test Anxiety & Adaptive Format Stress

Let’s be honest: standardized tests are stressful, especially ones that are adaptive like the GRE.

The GRE adjusts the difficulty of questions based on how you did in the first part of a section. Some people find that motivating, but others say it’s nerve-wracking—especially if they start to second-guess how well they’re doing mid-test.

And for anyone who’s neurodivergent, struggles with anxiety, or just doesn’t perform well in timed settings? The format itself can be a major barrier.

🏫 Why Some Schools Are Ditching the GRE

All these concerns have led to a growing movement: more and more programs are going test-optional or dropping the GRE altogether.

They’re saying:

• Let’s not gatekeep grad school access with a single test
• Let’s look at people’s lived experiences, research skills, personal statements, and recommendations instead
• Let’s stop pretending the GRE is the only (or best) way to spot potential

This shift is especially strong in public health, social sciences, humanities, and education-related programs—but even STEM and business schools are starting to follow.

🧠 But If Your Program Still Requires It…

Here’s the real talk: if your dream school still asks for GRE scores, you gotta play the game. But play it smart.

Use the test as a tool—not a measure of your worth. Prep efficiently, know your strengths, and remember:

• A test score is just one part of your story
• You have control over how you frame the rest of your application
• One number doesn’t define what you’re capable of

So yes—the GRE has some built-in flaws, and the criticism isn’t just noise. But if you need to take it, you can still rise to the challenge on your own terms.

13. Final Thoughts

The GRE is not the boss of you—it’s just one part of your grad school application.

If you decide to take it:

• Know what you’re up against
• Prep with purpose
• And don’t let it psych you out

Your GPA, research experience, letters of rec, and personal story matter just as much—if not more.

Need help figuring out if the GRE is worth it for your goals? Or want tips on prepping with ADHD, anxiety, or a full-time job? Hit me up—I got you 💛

Let’s talk grad school dreams in the comments 👇
What programs are y’all thinking of applying to?