Understanding the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is an essential standardized test utilized by many graduate schools in the United States and Canada to assess an applicant's readiness for advanced academic work. The GRE measures critical skills in three primary areas: analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. This article explores the GRE’s purpose, structure, scoring system, history, and role in college admissions.

Key Features of the GRE

• Purpose: The GRE aims to measure aptitude for abstract thinking, which is crucial for success in graduate programs. It tests skills necessary for higher education, including critical thinking, analytical writing, and problem-solving.
• Format: The GRE is predominantly offered as a computer-based test. However, a paper-based version is available in locations where internet access is limited.

Cost and Availability

• Testing Fees: In most countries, the GRE costs approximately $220. However, in China, test-takers are required to pay $231.30 due to additional administrative costs.
• Global Reach: The GRE is available in many countries around the world, ensuring that aspiring graduate students from various backgrounds can demonstrate their qualifications.

Structure of the GRE

The GRE consists of three main sections:

1. Verbal Reasoning: This section assesses the ability to analyze written material, evaluate arguments, and understand the nuances of language. Test-takers are required to read and comprehend complex texts and discern relationships between different ideas presented in written format.

2. Quantitative Reasoning: This section evaluates mathematical skills, particularly in areas such as algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Test-takers solve various mathematical problems and are required to interpret and analyze quantitative data effectively.

3. Analytical Writing: The writing section tests the test-taker’s capability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively. Candidates must compose coherent responses to specific prompts, showcasing their ability to construct and support arguments logically.

A Brief History of the GRE

The GRE was first introduced in 1936 by a consortium of universities in collaboration with the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Its initial goal was to provide a standardized method of evaluating graduate school applicants.

• In 1938, the University of Wisconsin was the first public institution to require the GRE.
• The Educational Testing Service (ETS), founded in 1947, has since managed the GRE and facilitated its evolution over the decades.
• Significant changes occurred in 2011 when the GRE underwent a significant redesign to improve clarity and relevance, establishing the current score scale of 130-170 for verbal and quantitative sections.
• Most recently, a condensed version of the GRE was introduced in 2023, reducing the total testing time to less than two hours.

Scoring the GRE

The GRE scoring system includes:

• Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning: Each section is scored on a scale from 130 to 170, with a score increase of one point for each correct answer.
• Analytical Writing: This section is scored separately on a scale from 0 to 6, in half-point increments. The scores from both writing tasks are averaged to provide a final Analytical Writing score.

When reporting scores, the combined score from the Verbal and Quantitative sections ranges from 260 to 340. Each of these scores conveys important information about the test-taker's strengths and areas for improvement.

The GRE and Graduate Admissions

The GRE is widely regarded by numerous graduate and business programs as a significant factor in the application process. Some key points include:

• General Test and Subject Tests: The GRE General Test is the most commonly required exam. Certain programs may also require GRE Subject Tests that measure knowledge in specific academic fields, including physics, psychology, and biology.
• Business Schools: While most MBA programs prefer the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), an increasing number of business schools accept GRE scores as an alternative. The GRE’s verbal focus appeals to many prospective business students, particularly in fields like marketing and management.

Trends and Criticisms

Despite its wide acceptance, some institutions are moving away from GRE requirements. Critics argue that the GRE presents biases that may detract from a holistic view of an applicant's potential, advocating for alternative assessment methods. Proponents of dropping GRE requirements believe that personal statements, letters of recommendation, and interviews provide a better indication of a candidate’s capability for success in graduate school.

Conclusion

The GRE remains a key component of the graduate school admissions process, used widely throughout the United States and Canada. By assessing essential skills, it provides programs with an objective measure of candidates' academic readiness. As higher education continues to evolve, the role of standardized testing may undergo changes, but for now, the GRE stands as a significant benchmark for aspiring graduate students.