GRE Exam Pattern: Insights About The Section-Wise Test Format!

The GRE exam, conducted by ETS, is one of the most widely recognized tests for graduate admissions. There are 3 sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. A specific duration and number of questions to be asked format is allotted for each section. 

The Analytical Writing section consists of a single task that must be completed in 30 minutes. The Verbal Reasoning section includes two sections, each with 20 questions, making a total of 40 questions. Similarly, the Quantitative Reasoning section also has two sections with 20 questions each, totaling another 40 questions.

The GRE is administered in two modes: computer-delivered and paper-delivered exams. However, only the computer-based GRE modules are available for candidates in India. For those taking the GRE Subject Test, questions are specific to particular subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. The comprehensive structure and timing of the GRE exam are designed to assess a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level academic work. 

Candidates are advised to familiarize themselves with the GRE test pattern, which can be downloaded from the ETS official website, to prepare effectively and manage their time efficiently during the exam. 

Recent Updates Around GRE Exam Pattern 2024

Here are the latest updates in the GRE (implemented in September 2023):

• GRE test duration is now 1 hour 58 minutes, down from 3 hours 45 minutes.

• The exam consists of 55 questions.

• The “Analyse an Argument” task has been removed from the Analytical Writing Section. 

• The unscored section has been removed entirely.

• Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections now have a total of 54 questions.

• Only one essay in the Analytical Writing section is required now. 

• GRE subject tests are available in computer-based and at-home formats.

• The exam duration for Physics and Psychology tests is reduced to 2 hours.

• The last Chemistry subject test was in April 2023; the same scores will be valid for 5 years.

• Official GRE scores are now available in 8 to 10 days, improved from 10 to 15 days.

Highlights About GRE Paper Pattern 2024

Following is the table showing the outline of GRE Test Format 2024: 

 

GRE General Test Scoring Pattern

Understanding the GRE scoring pattern is essential for aspirants aiming to pursue higher education. The GRE General Test assesses Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing skills, each scored on a specific scale.

Scoring well on the GRE, with a total score typically ranging from 260 to 340, is crucial for admission to top universities. Achieving a score of 320+ is generally considered competitive for most graduate programs. Understanding these score ranges helps candidates set realistic goals and prepare effectively for the exam.

GRE Paper Pattern 2024: Section Wise

The GRE General Test is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate candidates’ readiness for graduate-level academic work. The test consists of three main sections: Analytical Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. Each section focuses on different skills necessary for academic success. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the GRE paper pattern for 2024.

GRE Analytical Writing Pattern

The Analytical Writing measure assesses critical thinking and analytical writing skills. Starting September 22, 2023, this section evaluates your ability to:

• Articulate and support complex ideas

• Construct arguments

• Sustain a focused and coherent discussion

It does not assess specific content knowledge. The section consists of a 30-minute “Analyze an Issue” task. You will:

• Be presented with an opinion on an issue

• Receive instructions on how to respond

• Evaluate the issue and consider its complexities

• Develop an argument with reasons and examples to support your views

You will use a basic word processor developed by ETS to type your responses. The word processor includes functionalities such as insert text, delete text, cut-and-paste, and undo. However, tools like spellcheckers and grammar checkers are not available.

Quantitative Reasoning: GRE Paper Pattern 

The Quantitative Reasoning section examines your ability to analyze quantitative information, solve problems, and understand basic mathematical concepts. It covers areas such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation. The section includes four types of questions:

Quantitative Comparison Questions

• Multiple-choice Questions – Select One Answer Choice

• Multiple-choice Questions – Select One or More Answer Choices

• Numeric Entry Questions

This section assesses your ability to:

• Analyze quantitative information

• Solve problems using mathematical concepts

• Apply mathematical skills in various contexts

GRE Verbal Reasoning Exam Format 

The Verbal Reasoning section measures your ability to analyze information and evaluate your proficiency in English text and grammar. This section includes three types of questions:

• Reading Comprehension

• Text Completion

• Sentence Equivalence

The Verbal Reasoning section covers three main areas:

• Analyze and evaluate content information

• Assess the ability to analyze relationships between different parts of sentences

• Distinguish between concepts and words and their relationships

This section tests your ability to:

• Understand and interpret written material

• Evaluate arguments and conclusions

• Identify and analyze relationships between words and concepts

GRE Subject Test Pattern

The GRE Subject Tests are designed to evaluate candidates’ expertise in particular academic disciplines. These tests are administered in a computer-based format as of September 2023, with specific durations and content areas tailored to each subject.

Subjects Covered

The GRE Subject Tests currently include the following subjects:

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Psychology

Biology, English, and Chemistry tests were discontinued after April 2023, but scores from these tests remain reportable for five years post-exam date.

GRE Subject Test Formats

Each GRE Subject Test has its own structure and content areas:

1. Mathematics

• Duration: 2 hours and 50 minutes

• Question Type: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

• Content Areas:

• Calculus: 50%

• GRE Algebra: 25%

• Additional Topics: 25%

2. Physics

• Duration: 2 hours

• Question Type: MCQs

• Content Areas:

• Classical Mechanics

• Electromagnetism

• Optics and Wave Phenomena

• Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

• Quantum Mechanics

• Atomic Physics

• Special Relativity

• Laboratory Methods

• Specialized Topics

3. Psychology

• Duration: 2 hours and 50 minutes

• Question Type: MCQs

• Content Areas:

• Biological Psychology

• Cognitive Psychology

• Social Psychology

• Developmental Psychology

• Clinical Psychology

• Measurement/Methodology/Other

Scoring Pattern

• Score Scale: GRE Subject Test scores range from 200 to 900 in 10-point increments.

• Physics and Psychology Subscores (From September 2023): Reported on a 0-100 percent correct subscores scale in 1-point increments.

• Physics and Psychology Subscores (Before September 2023): Reported on a 20-99 score scale in 1-point increments.