Some graduate programs will require applicants to take the Graduate Records Exam, referred to as the GRE general test. Students seeking admission to professional schools such as law, medicine, or business may be required to take the LSAT, MCAT or GMAT (an increasing number of business schools are accepting the GRE), respectively.
During COVID-19, many graduate programs suspended the GRE requirement. Currently, many schools have not brought it back. Visit the websites of the programs to which you seek admission to determine if any standardized tests are required.
Visit the official GRE website to learn about test format and registration.
Online GRE Resources
- Magoosh – Based on positive student experiences, URGO recommends this website for GRE general test prep. Magoosh not only offers practice tests, but also provides videos explaining the answer for each question. Membership is reasonably priced for 6 months of use. Magoosh houses a blog that provides study tips and advice that is available to non-members as well. They can also help you create a study plan based on when you are going to take the GRE.
- Official GRE website – This website is user-friendly and a must view for anyone taking the GRE. After downloading the free PowerPrep software available at the site you can take two full-length practice exams that are EXACTLY like the actual test and get your score immediately. Other test prep companies and booklets advertise that they have practice exams; however, the only true test (the others can closely approximate it) is at the GRE website—and it’s free! In addition to the two free PowerPrep tests, at the GRE website, there are two additional tests that you can purchase for an additional cost. Taking full-length practice tests is critical for studying for the GRE.
GRE Scores
Nearly all graduate programs require official GRE scores, sent directly from the testing company. There is a fee reduction program for students who can demonstrate need that can be found on their website. When you sit for the exam, you can list up to four schools/programs you want your scores sent to at no additional cost. If you are thinking of applying to a school, list them at the time of the test. The scores will be there, then, in the event that you do decide to apply. It takes about ten business days to receive GRE scores following the General Test. Additional score reports take approximately five days.
Click here to see GRE scores for the University of Minnesota Graduate Programs to get an idea of the score you may need for your specific program. Do look at the schools and programs you are interested in applying to for more information on what GRE scores they are suggesting.
GRE Subject Tests
In addition to the General GRE, some graduate programs require applicants to take a GRE Subject Test. Subject tests are administered (but not always required) in the following areas; Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. The GRE website offers free test preparation, yet there is a fee for the exam. Unlike the general test, subject tests are only available in September, October, and April. It takes about four to six weeks to receive scores for the subject tests. Visit the GRE Subject Test website for test dates and details. Test registrants receive a free sample test by mail or can access one via the website.
GRE Frequently Asked Questions
Does the GRE matter?
The GRE, if required, always matters. Stellar GRE results can bump you into the acceptance pile and translate into fellowship and assistantship funding; lower than average scores can plunge you into the admission-denied pile or decrease your chances for funding.
What weight is given to GRE scores in the admission decision?
It depends on the program. More competitive programs receive applications from many highly qualified candidates and can afford to deny admission on the basis of low GRE scores. For less competitive programs—the majority of programs—the GRE is just one of many pieces influencing the admission decision.
When in my undergraduate career should I take the GRE?
Ideally, no later than the August before you apply. Graduate school deadlines are as early as December 1. Preserve your time in fall semester for finalizing graduate school choices, completing applications and keeping up your grades, not studying GRE vocab. In the event that you under-perform, you will also have time to retake to exam.
Can I retake the exam?
Test takers are allowed to retake the GRE one month following the last exam taken.
Do I have the option of sending only my best scores to graduate programs?
Yes. If you take the test more than once, you can choose which scores to send after the fact.
Which section of the GRE is most important to the graduate admissions committee?
It depends on your major and the program’s competitiveness. Never assume one section is more or less important until a graduate school tells you as much. Unfortunately, most graduate schools don’t publish this information on their websites; however, many faculty or graduate advisors will tell you if asked. Also, some students automatically–and often incorrectly–conclude that they should devote the bulk of their preparation time to bringing up the lowest section score after taking a practice exam. This may not be a wise study plan as you could be spending the majority of your time on the least important section.
What is the minimum score I need to be admitted into graduate school?
There is no magic number that holds true for all graduate programs. In fact, few programs will publish this number anywhere on their websites or admissions literature, but you can usually find this information by directly asking a staff member at the programs you are considering. What you will find on many websites is the average score of the students admitted to the program in the past. If your scores are lower than that average, then you want to counterbalance them with a higher than average GPA, an exceptional personal statement, and/or outstanding letters of recommendation. Please note that very year in graduate programs across the country students get admitted to graduate programs with GRE scores lower than the average or required minimum.
Do I need to take a subject test?
Visit the website of several graduate programs to see if a subject test is required.
If a school says that a subject test is merely preferred should I take it?
If your score is strong, or you know it will be strong, then send it. The reverse is true if your score is low. Keep in mind that you can always take the subject test but choose not to have your scores sent. Within some departments the subject test has minimal impact on the admission decision but serves as a diagnostic tool, revealing to graduate programs what coursework incoming students have mastered.
What if I can’t afford to take the test?
There are fee waivers available to students who meet very strict financial criteria outlined by GRE on their website. If you meet the criteria, you need to obtain verification of eligibility through Augsburg ’s Financial Aid Office in the Enrollment Center.
What if I require accommodations to take the test?
Visit the GRE website to see available accommodations and the process for securing them.