May 2023

GRE Dates 2023: Planning Your Exam Schedule

GRE Dates 2023: Planning Your Exam Schedule with Deadlines and Tips

GRE Dates 2023 can differ as the test is available both online and in person. For those who want to take the test from home testing dates are available 24/7. However, if you feel more comfortable taking the GRE from the test centers there are specific dates that are available for you.

As you prepare for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) in 2023, it’s crucial to understand the exam schedule, factors to consider when choosing a test date, and how to navigate the registration process. This article will provide you with key information and tips to help you plan your GRE exam schedule effectively.

Understanding the GRE Exam Schedule for 2023: Key Dates and Deadlines to Keep in Mind

The GRE is administered throughout the year, but it’s essential to be aware of the specific test dates for 2023. The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization responsible for the GRE, releases the official GRE test dates on its website. By consulting the ETS website or contacting their customer service, you can obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the available GRE dates 2023.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a GRE Exam Date: Tips for Finding the Right Time to Test

Understanding the GRE Exam Schedule

The official GRE dates for 2023 are released by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization that administers the GRE. These dates can be found on the ETS website or by contacting their customer service. It’s crucial to consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding available test dates.

When choosing a GRE exam date, it’s essential to consider factors such as your preparedness and study goals. Assess your current level of preparation and set realistic study targets to determine the best test date for you.

Balancing Study Time with Test Date

When selecting a GRE exam date, it’s crucial to find a balance between allowing yourself enough time to adequately prepare and avoiding unnecessary delays. Assess your current level of preparedness and set realistic study goals to determine the optimal test date for you. Plan your study schedule accordingly, giving yourself enough time to cover all the relevant topics and practice sample questions.

Considering Graduate School Admissions Timelines

Another factor to consider when scheduling your GRE exam is the application deadlines for the graduate schools you plan to apply to. Research and note down the admission deadlines for each institution, and work backward from those dates to determine when you should take the GRE. Keep in mind that it’s wise to complete the exam well in advance of the application deadlines to allow ample time for score reporting and application submission.

Factors Beyond Timing

While timing is an important consideration, don’t overlook other factors that may influence your test performance. Consider your personal circumstances, such as work commitments, family responsibilities, and any other significant events that could impact your study schedule. Aim to choose a test date when you can devote sufficient time and focus to your GRE preparation without undue distractions.

Registering for the GRE in 2023: What You Need to Know About the Process and Important Dates

To register for the GRE in 2023

Visit the official ETS website
Create an account
Access the registration portal
Select your preferred test date and location

It’s essential to register early to secure your desired date, as popular test centers may fill up quickly. Keep in mind that late registration fees may apply if you register after the regular registration deadline, so be mindful of the associated costs.

Preparing for the GRE: Strategies for Effective Study and Test-Taking in 2023

Preparing for the GRE requires effective study strategies and test-taking techniques. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the GRE in 2023:

Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Structure: Understand the format and sections of the GRE, including Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Review sample questions to become familiar with the types of questions you’ll encounter.
Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that allows you to cover all the necessary topics and practice regularly. Set specific goals for each study session and track your progress to stay on track.
Utilize Official Study Materials: ETS provides official study materials, including the Official Guide to the GRE and practice tests. These resources are designed specifically for the GRE and can help you become familiar with the test content and question formats.
Take Practice Tests: Regularly take timed practice tests to simulate the actual test-taking experience. Analyze your performance, identify areas of weakness, and focus on improving those areas.
Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your strengths and weaknesses and allocate more time to areas where you need improvement. Practice questions and review concepts related to the sections you find challenging.
Use Online Resources: Take advantage of online resources such as educational websites, forums, and interactive study tools that offer additional practice questions, explanations, and study guides.
Develop Time Management Skills: The GRE is a timed exam, so it’s crucial to practice managing your time effectively. During practice sessions, simulate the test conditions and aim to complete sections within the allocated time. Here are 5 key tips from Apex that will help you.
Join Study Groups or Seek Support: Consider joining study groups or finding study partners who are also preparing for the GRE. Collaborating with others can provide additional motivation, support, and different perspectives.
Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle during your preparation. Get enough rest, exercise regularly, eat well, and manage stress effectively. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will contribute to your overall performance on test day.

By implementing these strategies and maintaining a consistent study routine, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the GRE in 2023 and increase your chances of achieving your desired scores.

Adjusting Your GRE Exam Schedule: How to Reschedule or Cancel Your Test Date if Necessary

In certain situations, you may need to reschedule or cancel your GRE test date. If you find that you’re unable to take the exam on your originally scheduled date, you can log in to your ETS account and make the necessary changes. However, be aware that rescheduling fees may apply, and the availability of alternative test dates will depend on the test center’s capacity.

FAQs About The GRE Dates

Are there any important deadlines I should be aware of when registering for the GRE in 2023, such as late registration or rescheduling fees?

When registering for the GRE in 2023, it’s crucial to be aware of important deadlines.

Late registration fees may apply if you register after the regular registration deadline, so it’s advisable to register early to avoid additional costs.
As for rescheduling fees, the amount may vary, so consult the ETS website or contact their customer service for the most accurate information.

How far in advance should I register for the GRE in 2023?

Regarding how far in advance you should register for the GRE in 2023, it’s recommended to register as early as possible to secure your preferred test date and location. Since popular test centers tend to fill up quickly, registering well in advance will increase the likelihood of securing your desired exam slot.

Conclusion

By understanding the GRE exam schedule, considering various factors when choosing a test date, and familiarizing yourself with the registration process and important deadlines, you can effectively plan your GRE exam schedule for 2023. With proper preparation and strategic scheduling, you’ll be on your way to achieving your desired GRE scores and pursuing your graduate school aspirations.

Are you looking for personalized GRE preparation and individual tutoring? Our expert tutors are ready to guide you through the GRE journey, helping you achieve your best scores. With our customized study plans and tailored approach, we ensure you receive the support you need to succeed. Plus, we offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation call to discuss your goals and how we can assist you.

Contributor: Anna Martirosyan

May 2023

Aiming for a Perfect Score on the GRE: Tips and Strategies

Understanding the GRE Scoring System and What a Perfect Score Entails

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test used by many graduate programs to assess the readiness of applicants. The test is divided into three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. The perfect score on the GRE is 340, with 170 points for Verbal Reasoning and 170 points for Quantitative Reasoning. Additionally, the Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, with 6 being the highest score.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Striving for a Perfect GRE Score

Aiming for a perfect GRE score comes with both advantages and disadvantages that you should carefully consider during your preparation.

Benefits:

Impressive credentials: A perfect GRE score can set you apart from other applicants in highly competitive graduate programs, demonstrating your exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Increased confidence: Achieving a perfect score can boost your self-confidence, making you feel more capable and ready to tackle the challenges of graduate school.
Scholarship opportunities: A perfect GRE score may qualify you for prestigious scholarships or fellowships, reducing the financial burden of pursuing higher education.

Drawbacks:

Increased pressure: Striving for a perfect score can add significant stress to an already demanding preparation process. It’s essential to balance your ambition with self-care to avoid burnout.
Diminishing returns: For some programs, the difference between an excellent score and a perfect score may not significantly impact your chances of admission. In such cases, investing additional time and energy into achieving a perfect score might not be the most effective use of your resources.
Neglecting other application components: Focusing too heavily on obtaining a perfect GRE score can detract from other crucial aspects of your graduate school application, such as your personal statement, letters of recommendation, and research experience.

Ultimately, it’s important to carefully evaluate your target programs’ requirements and expectations and to strike a balance between aiming for a perfect score and maintaining a well-rounded application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing for the GRE

Lack of Planning

Failing to create a structured study plan can lead to unproductive study sessions and missed opportunities for improvement. Develop a realistic study schedule that includes ample time for practice tests, review, and content mastery.

Underestimating the Difficulty

The GRE is a challenging exam that requires rigorous preparation. Don’t assume that your existing knowledge and skills will be sufficient. Dedicate the necessary time and effort to prepare thoroughly.

Focusing on Memorization

While memorizing vocabulary and formulas can be helpful, it’s crucial to focus on understanding underlying concepts and developing problem-solving strategies.

Neglecting Test-Taking Strategies

Effective test-taking strategies, such as time management, pacing, and educated guessing, can make a significant difference in your overall score. Incorporate these strategies into your practice sessions.

Strategies for Achieving a Perfect Score on Each Section of the GRE

Developing Strong Analytical Writing Skills

To excel in the Analytical Writing section, practice organizing and articulating complex ideas, and develop a strong command of grammar and punctuation.

Mastering Verbal Reasoning

Boost your Verbal Reasoning score by expanding your vocabulary, honing your reading comprehension skills, and practicing critical reasoning exercises.

Conquering Quantitative Reasoning

For Quantitative Reasoning, focus on mastering essential math concepts, improving your problem-solving abilities, and familiarizing yourself with common question types.

Preparing With An Experienced Tutor

Working with an experienced GRE tutor can provide personalized guidance, feedback, and strategies tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.

Tips for Maintaining Motivation and Managing Test Anxiety During GRE Preparation

Staying motivated and managing test anxiety are essential for successful GRE preparation. Here are our top suggestions to keep you on track and feeling confident:

Set achievable goals: Break down your preparation into smaller milestones to track your progress and celebrate achievements along the way.
Develop a study routine: Consistent study sessions create a sense of predictability, reducing stress and helping you stay focused.
Seek support: Connect with friends, family, or fellow test-takers who can provide encouragement, share experiences, and keep you accountable.
Stay active and well-rested: Regular exercise and quality sleep contribute to improved well-being, boosting your mood and lowering stress levels.
Practice self-compassion: Remember that setbacks are a normal part of the learning process—treat yourself with kindness and patience.

We understand that test anxiety can be a significant obstacle for many students. That’s why we offer support from our test anxiety coach, who holds a Ph.D. and has extensive experience in helping students manage stress and boost their confidence. With her expert guidance and personalized strategies, you can overcome anxiety and thrive throughout your GRE preparation journey.

FAQs About GRE Prep

What is a perfect score on the GRE, and how is it calculated?

A perfect GRE score is 340, with 170 points in Verbal Reasoning and 170 points in Quantitative Reasoning. Additionally, the Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6.

Is it realistic to aim for a perfect score on the GRE, or should I focus on achieving a specific minimum score?

Aiming for a perfect score can be beneficial for competitive programs but may not be necessary for every applicant. Focus on understanding the requirements and expectations of the programs you’re applying to and balance your efforts accordingly.

How important are time management and pacing when aiming for a perfect score on the GRE?

Time management and pacing are critical for achieving a high score on the GRE. Efficiently allocating your time allows you to answer more questions accurately and minimizes the negative impact of stress and fatigue during the exam. Develop and practice time management strategies during your preparation to optimize your performance on test day.

Final Thoughts

Aiming for a perfect score on the GRE can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. By understanding the scoring system, avoiding common mistakes, and implementing effective strategies for each section, you can maximize your chances of success. Remember to stay motivated, manage test anxiety, and seek support when necessary.

Don’t embark on your GRE journey alone. Apex is here to help you reach your full potential with personalized tutoring and expert guidance. Take the first step toward achieving your dream score by signing up for a 30-minute complimentary consultation call with one of our experienced GRE tutors.

Apr 2023

For How Long Are GRE Scores Valid?

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that graduate schools use for their admissions process. It measures a student’s aptitude for graduate-level work and assesses skills such as analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning. But how long will your GRE score be valid?

For How Long Are GRE Scores Valid?

After 10-15 days from taking the GRE, your official test scores will be available in your ETS account. You’ll also receive an email from ETS.

GRE scores are valid for 5 years following your test date. The website allows you to see the exact date your score will be reportable based on your test day.

Note, that sometimes, some graduate schools and programs may have their own policies regarding the GRE score validity, therefore always make sure to check every requirement the programs provide.

What Happens When a Score Expires?

The GRE score expires after 5 years of taking the exam and once they do, they will no longer be reported to the universities and programs of your choice.

If after 5 years of taking the GRE exam, you are planning to apply for graduate programs, you will need to retake the exam.

How to Plan Your GRE Around Valid Dates?

Start planning your GRE dates by checking the official website and finding valid test dates for the year. Keep in mind that dates may change regularly or new dates may be added.
Consider your personal schedule, including the preparation time you require for the exam and other application deadlines, and based on them, determine your ideal test date.
Keep checking on the website for any updates about the exam schedule, place, and test information.
Remember, that after 5 years, your scores will no longer be valid for graduate schools and programs that ask for the GRE score as part of their application process. Keep the score validity period in mind for your graduate school applications and leave some time if you will consider retaking the exam in case you don’t get your desired score.

Why Do GRE Scores Expire in 5 Years?

Over time, a candidate’s knowledge and skills change and their scores may not be a good representation of their current abilities. The GRE exam scores expire after 5 years to ensure that they accurately reflect the candidate’s most current knowledge and skills, and provide accurate information to graduate programs about test-takers’ level of proficiency.

Is It Possible to Delay The Expiration Date?

It is not possible to delay the expiration date of the GRE test score. The duration of the score validity is fixed and can not be extended.

How to Get a Good GRE Score?

The best practice to prepare for the exam is to understand the test structure well, identify your weaknesses, and work on improving them. However, the best strategy depends on your individual learning style and preparation level. If you’re planning to take the GRE, book a complimentary call with top tutors to get personalized help to you achieve your school goals.

Mar 2023

GMAT vs GRE: Question Types and Content Comparison

If you’re considering business school, one of the first decisions to make is whether to prepare for the GRE or the GMAT. While the preferences of the admissions offices at your target schools should take precedence, there are many test-specific considerations as well. The tests vary substantially in terms of content, and this article will overview each test to help you make an informed decision for GMAT or GRE preparation.

GMAT vs GRE: Quantitative Sections Head-to-Head

The GRE and the GMAT take different approaches to measure candidates’ quantitative reasoning skills. The GMAT does not allow the use of a calculator on the quant section, but the GRE provides a built-in calculator for its quant sections. Some standard mental math proficiency is helpful on either test (you don’t want to have to use the GRE calculator every time you need to perform basic arithmetic operations), but if developing non-calculator proficiency is a big hurdle for you, put one check in the GRE column.

The GMAT and GRE quant sections cover almost the exact same content, but the balance of topics is different between the tests. The GMAT is heavily focused on algebra (whether pure notational algebra or word problems) and features more work/rate and speed/distance problems than the GRE, while the GRE mixes in more geometry and statistics. The GRE also requires knowledge of certain statistics topics that are lacking from the GMAT, like quartiles and normal distributions, but these topics can be learned easily and shouldn’t impact your decision.

Both tests have unique question types in their quantitative sections. On the GMAT, it’s data sufficiency; on the GRE, it’s quantitative comparisons. These questions represent a departure from the standard multiple choice model employed across virtually all standardized tests and usually require some extra practice from test-takers, but neither is necessarily more difficult or prep-time-consuming than the other.

Overall, most people who take both the GMAT and the GRE report that the GMAT has the harder quant section. And it is true that the GMAT problems tend to be a bit more complex than their GRE counterparts. Still, diligent preparation (especially with the help of an expert tutor) makes either quant section conquerable.

GMAT vs GRE: Verbal Sections Head-to Head

Here the GMAT and the GRE part ways. Both tests have reading comprehension in their verbal sections, with the passages and accompanying questions being largely the same in character and difficulty, but that is where the similarities end.

On GMAT verbal, reading comprehension questions account for only about ⅓ of the total, with critical reasoning and sentence correction making up the balance.

Critical reasoning questions are about recognizing the structure of an argument, especially its assumptions, and knowing how to strengthen, weaken, or complete it.

Sentence correction questions are a choice among five versions of the same sentence, only one of which is grammatically, idiomatically, and stylistically correct. In general, out of the 36 sections on the GMAT verbal reasoning section, about 10 are critical reasoning, about 12 are reading comprehension, and about 14 are sentence correction.

On each of the GRE’s two scored verbal reasoning sections, 10 of the 20 questions are reading comprehension, 6 are text completion, and 4 are sentence equivalence.

Text completion and sentence equivalence questions involve reading sentences and using context clues to fill in their blanks with the most appropriate words from the answer choice set. Where the GMAT requires English grammar knowledge for sentence correction, the GRE requires English vocabulary knowledge for text completion and sentence equivalence.

Generally, the learning of vocabulary for the GRE takes more prep time than the learning of grammar for GMAT sentence correction. Most English speakers with grammatical proficiency for GMAT sentence correction still need to liven up their vocabularies to get to the GRE level.

People who excel at memorizing lots of information – like the definitions of a few hundred words – will be well-suited to GRE verbal prep. People who struggle with memorization but like to think conceptually might be better suited to prepare for critical reasoning and sentence correction on the GMAT.

There is no verdict on which test has an easier or harder verbal section. The sections are too different for any such comparison to make sense. It all depends on your own personal strengths and weaknesses – both in terms of content knowledge and in terms of thinking/learning style.

GMAT vs GRE: Writing Sections Head-to-Head

The GRE writing portion, called Analytical Writing, comprises two thirty-minute tasks: analyze an issue and analyze an argument. The “analyze an issue” task requires you to take a position on a brief statement and to construct your own argument in support of your position. The “analyze an argument” task provides you with a short paragraph in which an author supports their own position on an issue.

For this task, you will not construct your own argument but critique the argument in the prompt, identifying the assumptions and facts upon which it relies for strength and validity.

The GMAT has only one thirty-minute writing portion, called the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), which is functionally identical to the GRE’s “analyze an argument” task.

Here the main difference is in the amount of time you have to spend writing. The GRE writing portion takes an hour and always comes before your quant and verbal sections, which can leave you feeling worn out while you still have almost three hours to go.

The GMAT writing portion is only half an hour and can be done after all other sections of your test. Still, the writing portion, while not altogether meaningless, is not mainly what these tests are about, so the difference in the “stamina factor” on this portion shouldn’t weigh heavily in your decision for one test or another.

GMAT vs GRE: Integrated Reasoning on the GMAT

The GMAT includes one section for which the GRE has no parallel: integrated reasoning. This thirty-minute, separately-scored section involves processing information from paragraphs, tables, and graphs in order to answer questions on the data.

The idea is for the section to integrate the quantitative reasoning and verbal reasoning skills showcased independently on the other sections. If you develop these skills in the course of preparing for those sections, you’ll probably handle the integrated reasoning section without much difficulty.

It doesn’t require you to learn any additional content and essentially comes down to processing information fast enough, which comes with a bit of practice. Don’t let this scare you away from the GMAT.

Final Analysis

Let’s review some key points in a helpful table:

Unique GMAT prep challenges	Unique GRE prep challenges
learn non-calculator skills	master geometry and statistics
learn grammar for sentence correction	learn 100-500 vocab words
learn critical reasoning	build extra stamina (longer test)

In the end, the choice may come down to (1) your current strengths and weaknesses and (2) the differences in your aptitude for learning the content/building the skills for each test. The aim of this article is not to steer you toward one test or the other, but to provide you with the information to help you take the right first step in choosing the right test for you.

If you are interested in speaking with one of our GRE private tutors, you can sign-up for a complimentary, 30-minute consultation call. You can also learn more from our past clients who were able to achieve their cumulative 325+ score with us!

Contributor: Elijah Mize (Apex GRE Instructor)

Sep 2022

GMAT or GRE: What’s the difference?

If you are considering pursuing a graduate degree, you will likely need to take either the GMAT or GRE exam. While both exams are used for admission into graduate programs, there are some key differences between the two.

Both the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) are standardized tests that have a lot in common in terms of their purpose. But GMAT is required for admission to most business schools while GRE is accepted by most graduate schools. But how do they differ?

GMAT or GRE: How are they different?

	GMAT	GRE
What are they?	A standardized test required by most business schools.	A standardized test required by most graduate schools, including many business schools.
Format	The GMAT has four sections. A 31-minute Quantitative Reasoning section, a 65-minute Verbal Reasoning section, a 30-minute Integrated Reasoning section, and a 30-minute Analytical Writing section.	The GRE has four sections. Two 35-minute Quantitative Reasoning sections, Two 35-minute Verbal Reasoning sections, a 60- minute Analytical Writing, and one unscored section that could be verbal or quantitative.
Testing time	3.5 hrs	3.75 hrs
Scoring	GMAT is scored on a scale of 200-800 in increments of 10.	GRE is scored on a scale of 130-170 in increments of 1.
Cost	The GMAT costs $250 with a $35 fee for each score report sent after the first five free reports.	The GRE costs $205 with a $50 fee for each score report sent after the first four free reports.
Validity	5 years	5 years

GMAT or GRE: Which exam to take?

That depends on your future plans after you complete your degree. Most people choose to take the GMAT because it’s tailored specifically for business school applicants. But if you’re interested in other graduate programs as well, or you want a more comprehensive test that covers more topics, then the GRE might be a better option for you.

Also, it’s always best to check with the schools that you intend to attend and see which test they prefer.

GMAT or GRE: Bottom line

Both tests are designed to measure a person’s ability to think critically and solve problems. The GMAT is specifically geared towards students who want to pursue a career in business, while the GRE is more general and can be used for admission into a variety of graduate programs.

If you need help deciding which exam to take or preparing for either of them, reach out to our tutors at ApexGRE or ApexGMAT for private personalized tutoring sessions. We offer 30-minute complimentary consultations with one of the top-scoring instructors.

Contributor: Cynthia Addoumieh

Jul 2022

Average GRE Scores for Top Business Schools 2022

For top graduate schools in 2022, having a GRE score is a massive advantage, even if they don’t necessarily require it. For those looking to get into the most prestigious schools globally, an excellent GRE score is of utmost importance to make sure you don’t fall behind the crowd.

Taking the GMAT may also be a preferable option in case you want to go to a top b-school and potentially get an MBA. Although it can be a difficult decision to make, finding out which test is the best option for your application is salient. And, taking either test is a difficult process but getting any advantage you can is imperative.

GRE Scoring

GRE scores in the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections vary from 130 to 170, while the analytical writing assessment ranges from 0 to 6 with half-point increments. The mean GRE score for verbal reasoning is 150.37, while the mean for quantitative reasoning is 153.66. While the average may be your aim, in order to get into a top b-school, your GRE scores may have to be a bit higher. Below are the average GRE scores for those admitted to some of the best business schools in the world.

Business students have the option to take the GMAT, the GRE, or even the Executive Assessment (EA) to get into business schools. Below are the average GRE scores for some of the top b-schools in the world.

Business School	Average GRE Score	Average Verbal Score	Average Quant Score	Average AWA Score
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)	324	162	162	4.6
University of Chicago (Booth)	325	162	163
Harvard University	327	163	164
London School of Business	320	160	160
University of Oxford (Said)	320	160	160
Imperial Business School	314	156	158
HEC Paris	310	155	155
Northwestern University (Kellog)	327	162	165
Yale University	328	164	164	4.6

Here you can also take a look at the average GRE scores for some of the top law schools in the United States.

Law School	Average GRE Score	Average Verbal Score	Average Quant Score	Average AWA Score
Yale Law School	334	168	166	5.5
Columbia University	330	167	163	5.5
Harvard Law School	332	167	165	5.5
Northwestern University (Pritzker)	322	163	159	5.0
New York University	329	167	162	5.5
USC Gould School of Law	319	162	157
University of Chicago	328	165	163
Stanford University	328	162	165
Georgetown	322	169	153	5.0

What might be noticeable is the lack of scores for the analytical writing assessment. The AWA section for many schools is not required, and may not even be regarded. It is critical to pay attention to your GRE score while looking at which schools you want to apply to. Your GPA and coursework can take you far, but taking the GRE can take you even further. A GRE or GMAT score is still a requirement for the majority of business schools, while the GRE is required in the majority of graduate schools across all disciplines.

GRE Study strategies and an excellent pre-plan are almost required to do well on the GRE. Also, a GRE private tutor can be the best way to put yourself over the top. One-on-one tutoring from world-class educators can keep you on track to a great GRE score and business school success. Here at Apex GMAT, we offer top-of-the-line tutors both online and offline with some of the best courses in the world. Click here now for a free consultation with one of our educators and click here to see our top 50 b-schools.

Contributor: Lukas Duncan

Jun 2022

Everything You Need to Know About the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment

If you are currently prepping for your GRE or want to do so soon, this article is just what you are looking for. Knowing your test’s sections will give you an overview of how you should prepare and divide your time. Not to mention, getting a glimpse of what’s to come on your exam day will for sure help put your nerves at ease.

Today’s headliner is the GRE’s Analytical Writing Section. Continue reading to get introduced to the third section in the GRE.

Today’s main topics to be discussed will be the following:

What is the GRE Exam?
What is the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section?

- What is this section testing?
- What is this section made up of?
  - Analyze an Issue
  - Analyze an Argument
  - Duration
- What are the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section scores like?
  - Score Percentile 2021
- Apex’s GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section Studying tips

What is the GRE Exam?

The GRE, also known as, The Graduate Record Examinations, is a standardized exam done for the sake of testing the test-taker’s ability to think outside the box when it comes to analytical writing, mathematics, and vocabulary. The majority of GRE test takers are students looking into Business Schools and in some cases Law Schools and also students considering Master’s (M.A., M.S., M.Ed.), MBA’s, or Doctorate (Ph.D., Ed.D.).

This GRE test consists of three main sections. These sections being Quantitative, Verbal, and Analytical Writing Assessment Section.

All these sections’ scores will, later on, sum up and make a minimum total of 260 and a maximum total of 340.

What is the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section?

Now that the bigger picture is clear, let’s talk about our main focus for today, The Analytical Writing Assessment Section.

This section aims to test your ability to critically think and write analytically. It also aims to assess your skills when it comes to articulating, supporting complex ideas, constructing and evaluating arguments, alongside your ability to discuss coherently.

The GRE Analytical Writing Assessment has two separately timed tasks. These two different sections are:

- Analyze an Issue task
- Analyze an Argument task

Now, let’s break down these two different tasks asked of the GRE test-taker to complete.

Analyze an Issue task

In this task you are given a particular point of view on a specific issue, which is then followed by instructions on how to respond to that issue. You are expected to evaluate the issue at hand while considering its complexities. You should also develop and present an argument, backing it up with reasoning and examples.

This task in specific aims to assess your ability to express your thoughts in the form of writing, while linking different points together to make a solid point. These types of questions can be discussed and interpreted in many different ways. You are asked to present your point of view on this issue, as well as your stance on it.

Before anything, make sure to read the issue and the instructions that follow carefully. Take a minute and see the issue presented from several different points of view. After that, make an outline of what you want your essay to look like. Do not forget your examples and supporting details!

Analyze an Argument task

Similarly to the “Analyze an Issue” task, you are to evaluate a particular argument while following specific instructions. However, what makes this task different is the fact that you are asked to consider the logical soundness of the argument given, rather than agree or disagree with the provided stance.

Like the whole GRE Analytical Writing Assessment, this task aims to test your critical thinking and analysis. Your writing skills, when it comes to voicing your opinion, are also under the telescope here.

As mentioned before, in this specific task, you are expected to discuss the logical soundness of the provided case by examining critically and providing reasoning and evidence.

While reading the given argument, take note of the following:

- What is mentioned, and what is not.
- What is used as support or proof.
- What is clearly stated, and what should be inferred.

Make sure to keep a close eye on the structure of your argument and how you linked pieces of evidence together. While doing that, assess the harmony of the points and if they are linked logically, and in a way that makes sense. You do not want your argument to fall short and sound blocky.

Each task in the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section is allocated half an hour to be completed. That means that these two tasks are timed separately, meaning that once you are done with the first task, the half an hour timer starts again for your next task.

These two different tasks complement each other. That is, one task requires you to put together your own argument, and that is through taking a position and backing it up with supporting details. The other one requires you to assess another person’s argument by evaluating the argument’s evidence and claim.

What are the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section scores like?

As we all know by now, the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section includes two different tasks, but that does not mean that these tasks will have two different scores recorded. For a more reliable score, you are provided with one single score that ranges from 0 to 6, in half-increments*

* In half-point increments: Suppose you got a 4/6 on the Issues essay and a 5/9 on your Argument essay. This then means that your total GRE Analytical Writing score would be 4.5. Your final Writing score—the average of the two essays— is then rounded up to the nearest half-point.

GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section Percentile (2021):

Score	1.0	1.5	2.0	2.5	3.0	3.5	4.0	4.5	5.0	5.5	6
Percentile	0	0	1	5	13	37	54	80	91	98	99

Apex’s GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section Studying tips

Choose your words carefully: When writing during this part of your GRE Exam, make sure to pick the best words that would best express what you mean to say. Focus on using strong words, and avoid using weak words. That would then result in strong, declarative statements. Keep in mind that having your two tasks written perfectly with strong vocabulary would sure help in boosting your final AWA score!
Focus on your transitions: Moving from one point to the other can be difficult and sometimes challenging. For that reason, use just the right transition word when shifting from one idea to the other. Transition words like, “Moreover, On the contrary, Not only, Similarly”, would help a harmonious essay seem organized and coherent. Which is exactly what you should be aiming for while writing your AWA tasks.
Refute the opposing view at the end: When it comes to your GRE ISSUE ESSAY, do not forget to refute the other point of view. Considering that this specific task provides you with a certain point of view that you are considered to evaluate, a lot of GRE test-takers tend to forget to refute the opposing point of view at the end of your essays. Remember, the structure is similar to that of an argument essay.
Practice: To mentally feel at ease, you need to feel like you have grasped the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section’s material and type of questioning. Knowing what you will be asked and getting the gist of this section will for sure help you in acing this section.
Avoid using the First Point of View: While providing reasoning and backing up your argument, and even when you are stating your stance, avoid at all costs, using the First Point of View. That is, do not use self-reference. Avoid statements like, “I believe”, “I found that”, or “I say” at all costs. Using such statements will weaken the credibility and trustworthiness of your tasks. Your readers want to see how you are utilizing professional sources and where you fit them in your essays.

Long Story Short

Every GRE Test-taker should take the AWA section in their GRE seriously, and allocate ample time for prepping before the big day. Knowing the skills that you will be tested on will guide you into knowing what and where to spend time on while studying for this specific section.

Take your time to fully understand and grasp the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment Section material. With the right amount of dedication and hard work, acing your GRE is more than possible.

If you are looking for professional help to boost your GRE performance, head to our official website and book your 30 minutes complimentary assessment session, now!

Contributor: Lilas Al-Sammak

Apr 2022

GRE Study Plan – Top 3 Mistakes To Avoid When Drafting It

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a very popular exam that thousands of students take every year. A large percentage of these students find the GRE extremely challenging, so don’t worry if you feel the same way. However, if you are determined to succeed in your exam, you should have a well-developed study plan. An important aspect to consider when drafting your GRE study plan could be some of the most common mistakes that test-takers make in the creation of their study plan or schedule. In this article, we’ll give you more information on some of the most common mistakes in drafting GRE study plans and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Dedicate enough time to preparation in your GRE study plan

The GRE is not an exam for which you can prepare within a matter of days. Although some students may be lucky enough to pass the exam with only 2-3 weeks of studying, do not rely on that. Most of them probably won’t get a satisfactory grade that will help them get into their dream school. To avoid such unpleasant situations, we suggest spending sufficient time and attention on your GRE prep. Different people take a different amount of time to prepare, so there is really no ultimate rule that applies to how early you should begin your preparation. However, it may be a good idea to start at least 3-4 months before your planned exam day in order to have enough time both for the exam preparation and the documentation part.

The most important thing to remember is that preparing for the GRE should be a methodical process. You can’t cram it all in two weeks and expect to achieve a satisfactory result. Give yourself the time you need to succeed. Start your preparation on time and go with the pace that fits your abilities. Eventually, your persistent gradual work will pay off.

2. Prepare equally for every section of the GRE exam

While drafting their GRE study plan, many students make the mistake of devoting too much time to the section they find the hardest. When they start preparing, they get carried away with this particular section and underestimate the others. Unfortunately, this mistake often hurts their overall score. No single section should be avoided or paid less attention to. Each section is equally important for your overall score and you have to spend as much time on it as you feel you need.

For example, the Quant is often considered the most difficult section by many students who tend to spend an enormous portion of their GRE prep time on it. However, you should not forget that you also get a large portion of your points from, for instance, the Verbal section. This means that you cannot overlook this section because you risk losing valuable points from your final result. Try to balance the different sections and spend enough time and effort on each of them, so that you can make sure you will achieve the highest result possible.

3. Take time to destress

We have already mentioned the importance of hard and consistent work while preparing for your GRE exam. It’s now time to turn our attention to something very important, which many students wrongly neglect. Many students are very ambitious and they want to achieve a high GRE score. They are ready to work for hours and hours to perfect their knowledge and skills. However, they often end up overworking themselves and forgetting to put their minds to rest and recharge. This is a major mistake. It doesn’t matter how skillful or knowledgeable you are when you can’t put into practice what you know because you are overworked. Pushing yourself too far will not only negatively affect your score but also your mental health.

You should learn to take care of your emotional and physical health because they are crucial for gaining knowledge and building long-lasting skills required for acing the GRE. Make sure to not underestimate the power of good rest and separate enough time for it when drafting your GRE study plan. By doing this, you will be able to improve your memory and learning skills in the GRE prep process.

Conclusion

Knowing the most common mistakes that test takers make when preparing and undertaking their GRE study plan can help you avoid or deal with them effectively. Here at Apex, we know that preparing for the GRE exam day may be a challenging task. For this reason, we are more than happy to support you on your GRE journey and assist you in every step of the process. You can sign-up for a 30-minute complimentary consultation call with one of our instructors who can help you with every stage of your GRE journey!

Contributor: Diana Materova

Jan 2022

GRE Verbal Section – All You Need To Know

The business world is dominated by numbers, charts, and graphs. Thus, most business school hopefuls understandably focus on developing their analytical thinking and math skills when preparing for the GRE exam. But it’s a mistake to neglect the GRE verbal section. Effective GRE test prep requires a balanced, well-rounded approach.

Here’s what you need to know about the GRE verbal reasoning section.

What is the GRE verbal section and what does it test for?

The verbal section of GRE primarily evaluates the test taker’s overall command of standard written English, their ability to analyze and evaluate arguments, and critical reading skills. As such, the verbal section is made up of three types of problems: reading comprehension, text correction, and sentence equivalence.

The 3 sections have a total of 36 questions, with a time limit of 65 minutes. This leaves, on average, 1 minute and 50 seconds per question.

How Is GRE Verbal Section Scored?

The verbal section of GRE, like the quantitative section, is evaluated on a scale of 130 to 170 in one point increments. A 162 on Verbal and a 166 on Quant is considered an excellent score – it is a 90th percentile score that will be competitive for most graduate programs.

“What are GRE percentiles?” you may ask. Basically, the GRE ranks test takers by percentile. The percentile system uses GRE scores from the previous three years to calculate how applicants performed compared to their peers. For example, if an applicant scores in the 80th percentile, it means he or she performed better than 80% of test takers over the last three years.

Although the GRE scaled scores don’t change over time, the percentiles do. Graduate schools assess both the scaled and percentile scores to get an adequate understanding of the applicant’s strengths and weaknesses.

Language on the GRE Verbal Section

The language on the verbal section is more sophisticated and academic than what is used in everyday vocabulary. If you aren’t accustomed to reading formal English, your verbal prep might require some extra time and energy.

It will be easier to identify errors, main points, and bias statements once you’ve trained your ear to formal English. Practice reading formal texts efficiently and effectively, and avoid vernacular texts. Instead, choose sources that are known for using elevated writing styles, such as The New Yorker or The New York Times.

GRE Reading Comprehension

The reading comprehension subsection of GRE evaluates not only the candidate’s understanding of words and statements, but more importantly, the underlying logic behind them.
In this subsection, you’ll find passages of texts followed by several questions about the text’s details and implications. Some passages draw from various disciplines, such as the physical, biological, or social sciences, while others refer to business-related fields.

Here are some tips to make the process less tedious and more efficient:

Read the whole passage without taking too much time to memorize details
Analyze the logical structure of the passage
Ask yourself:

What’s the main argument?
What does the author state explicitly? What is implied?
How would you describe the author’s tone and attitude?

Keep an eye out for opinionated words–for example, “clearly,” “obviously,” or “apparently”–these words hint at the author’s attitudes, and they’ll help you suss out the main point.

GRE Text Completion

Text Completion is another subsection of GRE consisting of questions designed to test candidates’ abilities to build coherent and meaningful sentences. What test-takers should do is to read short passages that miss crucial words in them. Then, based on the remaining information, they need to choose the word or short phrase that would best fit the blank and thus, construct clear and logical texts.

Here are a few tips to nail the GRE Text Completion subsection:

Don’t focus only on the sentence with the blank space, read through the whole passage to learn the context.
Don’t waste too much time on the first blank – if you can’t think of anything at the moment, continue filling the rest and then come back to it.
Keep an eye on words like although, therefore, as they are connective words setting the direction of the passages.

GRE Sentence Equivalence

Similarly, the sentence equivalence subsection of the GRE aims at assessing a candidate’s ability to formulate a meaningful “whole” by choosing the proper way to fill in the blank spaces. Test-takers will have to complete a sentence by choosing two of the six answer options to fit one blank. The two words must be synonyms and lead to the constructing of a sentence with, more or less, the same meaning. No credit is provided for partially correct answers.

Here are some tips to consider while doing the GRE sentence equivalence subsection:

First and foremost, you need to equip yourself with rich vocabulary, as you need to identify perfect synonyms.
As there may be more than one set of synonyms among the answers, make sure that the words chosen by you are appropriate for filling in the blank.
After you’ve made your choice, make sure to read the sentence again in order to ensure it is grammatically and logically coherent.

Conclusion

Taking the GRE quantitative section into account, there are a number of score combinations that will lead to the same overall score, which leaves plenty of room to maneuver. However, given the rise in GRE quantitative scores in recent years, total scores and percentile rankings have shifted. This gives candidates an opportunity to boost their overall scores by mastering the verbal section of the GRE.

Contributor: Bilhen Sali

10 things you should consider before you begin your GRE prep

Sep 2021

10 Things You Should Consider Before You Begin Your GRE Exam Prep

By: ApexGMAT
Contributor: Simona Mkhitaryan
Date: September 17, 2021

The Structure of GRE Exam

The GRE test is a 3-hour 45-minutes (10 minutes break, included) exam with 3 main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and an unidentified/unscored section. The Analytical Writing section will always be the first section, then the Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and unidentified/unscored sections may appear in any order. The unscored experimental section can be either quantitative or verbal.

The GRE can be taken in two formats: computer-based and paper test. The content for each type of test is the same, but there can be some differences between the timing and the number of questions.

Scores: The official GRE scores for computer-based exams are available within 10-15 days after the test date and for paper-delivered tests within five weeks. The scores will also be sent to the particular institutions you want.

Retaking process: When taking the paper-delivered test, you can retake the GRE as many times as you want. However, if you took the GRE test via computer, you can retake it once every 21 days and up to five times a year.

Cost: The standard fee for GRE is US$205.

2 GRE Sections are Section-Level Adaptive

The GRE Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections are section-level adaptive. So, what does it mean? It means that an algorithm selects successive sections based on the previous sections’ performance. The final score is then composed of each section’s score equally.

GRE Scores are Valid for Five Years

GRE test score is valid for five years. Hence, before taking or preparing for the GRE, it is essential to know the validity of the exam to plan when to take the GRE properly. If you already have a particular school or program you want to apply to, you have to schedule your test based on the deadlines the school has defined. Nonetheless, it would also be good if you keep in mind the validity time frame on the off chance that you are as yet uncertain about when you will apply to schools.

The Maximum Score of GRE Exam

The highest total GRE score is 340, a 170 both for Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning. Unlike other tests, GRE scores are presented separately. So, when you send your GRE results you will probably send three separate scores for each section. Moreover, the Analytical Writing Section is scored on an independent scale from 0-6. If you already know which university you are going to apply to, pay attention to whether the university or program has any section preferences or not.

The GRE Calculator

Unlike the GMAT, you can use a specific GRE calculator during the Quantitative Reasoning section. For paper-delivered GRE, the GRE calculator will be provided during the test, but you cannot bring your own to the exam. For computer-based GRE you can use the on-screen calculator. However, simple calculations are often quicker and safer to solve without a calculator, to avoid entry errors.

As mentioned not all calculators are allowed during the exam. So, what GRE calculator can be used for?

Add, subtract, divide, multiply
Parenthesize
Take the square root of
Add a decimal to
Change signs
Store the answers via memory keys
Display up to eight digits at a time

The calculator doesn’t include exponents, constants like π or e, logarithmic (ln, log) or trigonometric (sine, cosine, tangent) functions, nested parentheses, or the ability to square or cube.

GRE Exam Acceptance and Graduate Programs

The GRE as the GMAT is a common and widely accepted exam for graduate programs. It is common in the USA, Canada, Australia, etc. As GMAT usually serves for the MBA Program, the GRE is recognized by several business schools and has GRE Subject tests which are available in fields such as chemistry, mathematics, physics, biology, literature in English, and psychology. So, as a matter of fact, the GRE is used not only in business programs but also in various areas.

Defining Strengths and Weaknesses

This analysis will help you know what you are good at and what you need to improve. First of all, plan your strategy about how you are going to analyze your weaknesses and strengths. It can be by taking the GRE practice test once and then figuring out which areas you felt particularly weak or strong in.

Another option is to maintain a notebook for a week and mark down the weaknesses and strengths you encounter during your initial studying. Via this analysis, you might get a sense of whether you are good at time management, what your speed is, and much more. During the analysis, try to identify which question types are the most challenging for you in each section. Figure out what soft skills you have that might help you during the exam and pinpoint the ones that need improvement. After that, conclude and start working on developing new skills and overcoming weaknesses. Always keep in mind having a realistically achievable goal for the final target as a score. Scoring a 300 + on the GRE exam isn’t an easy thing!

Developing a Study Schedule

After acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses, design a personalized study plan to guide you throughout your preparation, decide what sources and courses you need, whether you are going to prepare only with tests, or go step by step through topics and sections. You should start preparing for the GRE at least three to six months before the test date, so try not to cram at the last minute! Schedule your learning format and decide which strategy fits the best with your prep level.

You might also consider taking courses with a GRE private tutor, from whom you will get a lot of help and guidance in your GRE preparation creed. This will make your prep easier since you will stick to your study schedule and know ahead of time when you should be studying. Hence, prioritizing your GRE study schedule and then fitting the rest of your day around it will be more effective.

Using Flashcards and Other Study Methods to Prep for the GRE Exam

During GRE preparation, it is vital to use practical and helpful materials that will guide your preparation process. It is essential to know which study method works best. Eventually, most of the time, GRE requires self-study mode. However, besides that, you can take online GRE classes, in-person GRE classes, and finally prepare with a private tutor/instructor who will help you with their knowledge and experience.

Flashcards are another great way to study and make quick notes on GRE sections. While preparing for the GRE, the Verbal Reasoning section tests the knowledge of advanced and sophisticated vocabulary. It is an excellent way to write the words on flashcards and start practicing. The GRE Quantitative Reasoning questions test your knowledge of four main subjects you need to concentrate on while preparing and practicing for the GRE: Algebra, Arithmetic, Data Analysis, and Geometry. Hence, make sure to use the right and most comfortable study methods that fit your schedule the most.

The GRE Exam Timing

When preparing for the GRE, try to keep track of your time to allocate it equally to each section. However, do this step after identifying what concepts are complicated for you to allocate more time on those topics and train yourself to solve those problems. Practice pacing because, during the GRE, time management is critical to complete the exam. The worst scenario in the GRE is that sometimes the test takers run out of time towards the end. This is because some of the test takers do not stick with the time and fall behind. Thus, set and stick to certain time milestones to finish the exam on time. Getting every question on the GRE right doesn’t do you much good if you can’t answer all the questions within the time limit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, before preparing for the GRE, be sure to first familiarize yourself with the GRE structure, the cost, maximum score, acceptance, GRE calculator, and format. Then define your weaknesses and strengths, develop a study plan, use different study methods and hit the green light! Finally, while practicing for the GRE, try to keep track of time and concentrate on learning rather than answering all the questions correctly.