The GRE Exam, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), is a globally recognized standardized test. Delivered primarily in a computer-based, multiple-choice format, it is a key admission requirement for graduate, business, and law schools worldwide. The exam evaluates analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning abilities, providing a comprehensive measure of a candidate’s preparedness for advanced academic study. As an essential component of the admissions process, the GRE plays a significant role in determining eligibility for various graduate-level programs.
Exam Sections and Syllabus
The GRE Exam includes three core sections that assess a range of academic abilities. The total test duration is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes. Within these sections, the exam is further divided into five sub-sections.
| Main Sections | Number of Questions | Allotted Time | Score Scale |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 Sections) | Section 1: 12 questions Section 2: 15 questions | Section 1: 18 minutes Section 2: 23 minutes | 130–170 (in 1-point increments) |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 Sections) | Section 1: 12 questions Section 2: 15 questions | Section 1: 21 minutes Section 2: 26 minutes | 130–170 (in 1-point increments) |
| Analytical Writing (1 Section) | One “Analyze an Issue” task | 30 minutes | 0–6 (in half-point increments) |
Verbal Reasoning
This section measures the ability to understand written content, analyze relationships between ideas, and interpret meaning from text. It includes question types such as reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, and text completion.
Reading Comprehension:
Passages may cover topics from humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Test-takers must evaluate main ideas, supporting details, the author’s tone and purpose, and logical structure.
Questions may focus on identifying the main point, supporting evidence, inference, tone, vocabulary in context, and the author’s intent.
Text Completion:
Sentences with missing words require selecting the most suitable term or phrase to complete the meaning.
This task assesses vocabulary knowledge, contextual understanding, and the ability to infer meaning.
Question formats may include identifying synonyms, antonyms, or selecting words that best fit grammatical and contextual requirements.
Sentence Equivalence:
Requires selecting two answer options that best preserve the sentence’s intended meaning.
Assesses vocabulary strength, grammatical understanding, and critical reasoning skills.
Question types focus on recognizing equivalent meanings, paraphrasing, and identifying logical inconsistencies.
Quantitative Reasoning
This section evaluates mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills across arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Question formats may include multiple-choice, quantitative comparison, and data interpretation.
Arithmetic:
Covers basic mathematical operations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Includes concepts such as ratios, percentages, proportions, and exponents.
Questions may involve straightforward calculations, applying formulas, or solving real-world word problems.
Algebra:
Includes topics such as linear equations, inequalities, functions, exponents, and quadratic equations.
Requires a solid grasp of algebraic principles and the ability to manipulate expressions and equations.
Question formats may involve solving equations, interpreting graphs, and applying algebra to word problems.
Geometry:
Tests understanding of shapes, angles, lines, and measurements of area and volume.
May require the use of geometric formulas and theorems, such as the Pythagorean theorem.
Questions may involve identifying geometric figures, performing calculations, and solving applied geometry problems.
Data Analysis:
Focuses on interpreting information from charts, graphs, and tables.
Covers basic statistical ideas, including mean, median, mode, and range.
Question types include evaluating data trends, drawing conclusions, and solving probability and statistical problems.
Analytical Writing
This section requires test-takers to analyze a given issue and express a well-reasoned argument. It evaluates the ability to organize ideas, develop viewpoints, and demonstrate strong critical thinking and writing skills.
Issue Essay:
Involves responding to a given statement by evaluating it and presenting a supported viewpoint.
Requires analytical thinking, recognition of assumptions, and strong persuasive writing.
Argument Essay:
Focuses on evaluating the logic of a presented argument rather than agreeing or disagreeing with it.
Requires identifying strengths, weaknesses, and logical flaws, while suggesting improvements.
Eligibility Criteria
There are no strict eligibility requirements for the GRE Exam 2026 in terms of age or academic qualifications. The test is open to candidates globally, particularly those pursuing postgraduate studies. There is no age restriction, and individuals may attempt the exam multiple times. To register, applicants must follow the official GRE registration process and provide valid identification on the test day.
Exam Fees 2026
The fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expressed in US dollars below:
| Location | Fee |
| China | $231.30 |
| Other countries of the world | $220 |
Special Handling Requests
| Special Handling Request | Fee |
| Rescheduling fee (China) | $53.90 |
| Rescheduling fee (Other countries of the world) | $50 |
| Changing your exam centre | $50 |
For India
The application fees in India who want to register online for the exam can be found below. Visit the ETS India website for exam takers in India.
| GRE Exam | Fees (INR) |
| GRE General Exam | ₹ 22,550 |
| GRE Subject Exam | ₹ 14,500 |
| Special Handling Request | Fees |
| Rescheduling fee | ₹ 5,000 |
| Changing exam centre | ₹ 5,000 |
Benefits of the GRE
Although often seen as a challenging exam, the GRE offers a wide range of advantages for students planning to pursue advanced education. Some key benefits include:
Global Recognition:
The GRE is accepted by thousands of universities and business schools worldwide, making it a gateway to competitive and prestigious graduate programs—particularly in countries such as the United States, Canada, and many across Europe. A strong score can enhance the strength of your application.Increased Scholarship Opportunities:
High GRE scores can boost eligibility for scholarships and financial aid. Many universities consider test performance when awarding merit-based funding, which can help reduce the overall cost of graduate studies.Skill Enhancement:
Preparing for the GRE strengthens essential academic and cognitive skills, including analytical writing, critical thinking, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. These skills are valuable not only for graduate school success but also in various professional environments.Career Flexibility and Growth:
Beyond academic admissions, a competitive GRE score can also benefit applicants in industries that value analytical and quantitative abilities, such as finance, data science, consulting, and research. This makes the GRE a useful asset for both educational and career advancement.