What are the GRE Subject Tests?

The GRE Subject Tests are exams that assess a student's knowledge in specific academic disciplines, which can strengthen their application for graduate programs.

How can GRE Subject Tests improve my graduate school application?

Strong performance on a GRE Subject Test demonstrates your expertise and readiness for graduate-level study in a specific discipline, making your application more competitive.

Overview of Available GRE Subject Tests

Q: Which subjects are covered by the GRE Subject Tests?

The GRE Subject Tests cover Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.

The GRE Subject Tests are specialized exams that assess knowledge in specific disciplines, helping to demonstrate an applicant’s proficiency and readiness for graduate-level study. This article provides a comprehensive overview of each available GRE Subject Test, covering essential content and areas of focus for disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.

Biology

The GRE Biology Subject Test is designed for students with a solid foundation in biological sciences. The test covers three major areas:

Cellular and Molecular Biology (33-34%): Assesses knowledge of cell structure, genetics, molecular biology, and related biochemical processes.
Organismal Biology (33-34%): Focuses on physiology, behavior, and reproduction in plants and animals, covering principles of ecology and evolution.
Ecology and Evolution (33-34%): Explores ecological principles, population genetics, and evolutionary biology, with topics such as ecosystems and environmental biology.

Candidates are expected to integrate concepts across these areas to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of biological science.

Chemistry

The GRE Chemistry Subject Test assesses fundamental concepts across four main areas:

Analytical Chemistry (15%): Focuses on data analysis, spectroscopy, and laboratory techniques.
Inorganic Chemistry (25%): Covers properties and behavior of inorganic compounds, including transition metals and coordination chemistry.
Organic Chemistry (30%): Tests knowledge of the structure, synthesis, and reactions of organic molecules.
Physical Chemistry (30%): Focuses on thermodynamics, quantum chemistry, and kinetics.

This test requires candidates to apply their understanding of chemical principles in solving complex problems.

Literature in English

The GRE Literature in English Subject Test is for students with a strong background in English literature and literary analysis. The test covers:

Literary Analysis (40-55%): Involves close reading of texts and analysis of form, content, and style.
Identification (15-20%): Tests knowledge of literary history, movements, and genres.
Cultural and Historical Contexts (20-25%): Assesses understanding of the relationship between literature and its context.
Literary Criticism (10-15%): Requires familiarity with critical theories and approaches to literature.

This test evaluates a candidate's ability to interpret and analyze texts and their knowledge of literary history and theory.

Mathematics

The GRE Mathematics Subject Test is aimed at students with a comprehensive background in undergraduate mathematics. The test covers:

Calculus (50%): Includes differential and integral calculus as well as multivariate calculus.
Algebra (25%): Focuses on elementary algebra, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and number theory.
Additional Topics (25%): Covers topics such as real analysis, discrete mathematics, geometry, and probability.

This test requires candidates to demonstrate proficiency in a broad array of mathematical concepts and techniques.

Physics

The GRE Physics Subject Test assesses knowledge in key areas of physics, including:

Classical Mechanics (20%): Covers Newtonian mechanics, kinematics, and dynamics.
Electromagnetism (18%): Focuses on electrostatics, magnetostatics, and electromagnetic waves.
Optics and Wave Phenomena (9%): Involves the study of light, wave properties, and physical optics.
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (10%): Covers the laws of thermodynamics, kinetic theory, and entropy.
Quantum Mechanics (12%): Tests knowledge of quantum theory, wave functions, and uncertainty principles.
Atomic Physics, Special Relativity, Laboratory Methods, and Specialized Topics (combined 31%): Covers areas such as atomic structure, nuclear physics, and experimental methods.

This test requires a deep understanding of fundamental principles and the ability to apply them in various contexts.

Psychology

The GRE Psychology Subject Test is designed for students with a strong foundation in psychological science. The test covers:

Biological (17-21%): Includes questions on the biological bases of behavior, such as the nervous system and sensory processes.
Cognitive (17-24%): Focuses on memory, learning, language, and cognition.
Social (12-14%): Covers topics related to social behavior, including attitudes and group dynamics.
Developmental (12-14%): Examines psychological development across the lifespan.
Clinical (15-19%): Assesses knowledge of abnormal psychology, psychotherapy, and psychological disorders.
Measurement/Methodology/Other (15-19%): Includes research methods, psychometrics, and statistics.

This test evaluates a candidate's understanding of major psychological concepts and their ability to apply these concepts in different scenarios.

Conclusion

The GRE Subject Tests are valuable for students aiming to demonstrate their knowledge in specific disciplines such as biology, chemistry, literature, mathematics, physics, and psychology. Success in these tests can strengthen a graduate school application by highlighting a candidate's expertise and readiness for advanced study. Thorough preparation and a deep understanding of the subject matter are essential for performing well on these exams.