Before I answer the question, let me explain the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The GRE does not predict graduate or doctoral completion rates but tests for graduate school readiness. The exam now takes 1 hour and 58 minutes, down from the previous 3 hours and 45 minutes. It assesses your skills in verbal and quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing. The Quantitative and Verbal sections are scored on a scale of 130-170 each, and combined to give you a total GRE Score ranging from 260-340. I'll always remember driving through snow flurries to a testing location near Penn Square Mall in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to take a long exam and getting a score of 297. I felt a mix of excitement and disappointment because I really wanted to score 300.
What Else You Need to Know About the GRE
Know the cost: The exam cost in China is $231.30, and for all other areas of the world, it is $220
Know funding options: You should apply for the GRE Fee Reduction Program.
Know the impact of your decisions: Rescheduling or changing test locations costs between $50 and $53, so pick your dates, times, and locations wisely.
Know the scoring models: According to the ETS “A Snapshot of the Individuals Who Took the GRE® General Test July 2018–June 2023” report, the average GRE scores in 2022-2023 were about 151 (151.3) for verbal reasoning and 157 for quantitative reasoning. Highly selective law programs typically have GRE scores of 159-170.
Know how many people take this exam: Over 300,000 people take this exam.
Now that you have this information and access to get questions answered about the exam, you can make an informed decision about what you need to know before you apply to a graduate program that requires the GRE.
Why does the GRE matter in admissions?
The GRE is a pivotal factor in graduate admissions. Educational Testing Services (ETS) has clarified that the exam is not designed to exclude individuals from graduate admissions. Many graduate programs utilize the exam to gauge readiness. However, in practice, it also functions as a tool to filter out applicants who do not meet the minimum score requirements for admission.
I'm still trying to find data that explains the significant difference in readiness between 297 (my last GRE score) and 310. Tooting my own horn, I have surpassed some people I know with 310 or higher scores, but we aren’t here to relish on my accomplishments.
I understand that various factors, such as mentorship, coaching, resources, resilience, and support structures, greatly impact a student's success in graduate programs and degree completion. However, if 50% of doctoral students don’t complete their degree, I’m asking faculty to question their overreliance on this exam to measure readiness.
It's likely that graduate programs don't have a solid answer to questions like, "Why do we rely on the GRE?" or "Why did we choose this specific score?" Just remember that the GRE is just a tool, and not all tools work to solve all problems. Some tools end up creating more problems than they were intended to solve.
Some programs, particularly those in the top 5, may require the GRE. I recommend looking into test-optional programs if the GRE is a significant concern.
Should I Look For Test Optional Programs
Test-optional means that the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or any other exam is not mandatory for admission to graduate school. Opting for a test-optional program does not imply that the program is less rigorous than a test-required program. The prevalence of test-optional programs increased during the pandemic due to the lack of alternatives. Test-optional is more equitable because some individuals may not have the resources to pay for the exam, access to exam locations, adequate preparation time, or confidence in taking the test. Moreover, removing the requirement compels programs to be more deliberate with their processes, especially when this exam is more detrimental to racially minoritized populations and students with disabilities.
Should I Take The GRE?
At A2GS, our mission is to make graduate education more equitable and accessible for all individuals. My goal for you is to make the best professional, academic, and economic decisions for your goals when choosing a GRE path, whether required or optional.
The decision you have to make depends on your unique requirements and goals. Here are three questions to consider?
For the goals I want to accomplish, should I apply to graduate programs that require the GRE?
If a test is required, what score do I need for admission?
Do I have the capacity and resources to take the required exam?
Justin would apply to test-optional in 2024 while it's still available. I suspect that with the test-optional ACT slowly being taken away from prestigious institutions, you will see the same happen for the GRE.
If you are planning to apply to graduate school between Fall 2024-Spring 2026
What can I do to be successful at the GRE?
Remember the following tips for exam preparation:
Choose an exam date and stick to it.
Give yourself 2-3 months to prepare for the exam.
Utilize free resources such as apps and online practice tests, and attend GRE-related events.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Your local library can be a great resource. If they don't have what you need, they're often willing to make purchases upon request.
Ask friends if they have any study materials you can borrow, such as books or flashcards.
Consider taking an online prep course. I recommend the Achievable GRE course.
Apply to Graduate School has partnered with Achievable to offer a testing preparation course for $199, which is more affordable than other programs. Achievable offers personalized test prep courses for the GRE, guiding learners through a personalized study experience and ensuring they are fully prepared for the exam.
I have personally tested Achievable's course and found it beneficial. You can click here to sign up for Achievable.
Whenever I talk about graduate school, I tell people
Comentarios