GRE Practice Test 2025
Complete Guide to Graduate Record Examination Preparation
GRE: Quick Overview
What is the GRE Test?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test developed and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Established in 1949, the GRE is accepted by thousands of graduate and business schools worldwide as a measure of readiness for graduate-level academic work. The test assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills acquired over a long period of time and not related to any specific field of study.
As of September 2023, ETS launched a shorter GRE General Test that takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes (down from 3 hours 45 minutes in the previous format). This major update removed one Verbal and one Quantitative section, eliminated unscored sections, and streamlined the Analytical Writing section to a single task. The shorter format maintains the same rigorous standards while significantly reducing test fatigue and improving the testing experience.
The GRE is available year-round at authorized testing centers worldwide and can also be taken at home through the GRE General Test at Home option. Test-takers can attempt the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period (365 days). Scores are valid for five years from the test date, providing flexibility for students planning their graduate school applications.
GRE Test Structure (Revised Shorter Format)
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 Task (Analyze an Issue) | 30 minutes | 0-6 (0.5 increments) |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 sections) | 27 questions total (~12-15 per section) | 41 minutes total (18 min + 23 min) | 130-170 (1-pt increments) |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections) | 27 questions total (~12-15 per section) | 47 minutes total (21 min + 26 min) | 130-170 (1-pt increments) |
| Total | ~55 Questions | ~1 hour 58 minutes | - |
Note: The GRE uses section-level adaptive testing - your performance on the first section of Verbal/Quant determines the difficulty of the second section.
GRE Test Content Overview
📝 Analytical Writing Assessment
One Task: "Analyze an Issue" (30 minutes)
This section measures your ability to:
- Articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively
- Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples
- Examine claims and accompanying evidence
- Sustain a focused, coherent discussion
- Control elements of standard written English
Scoring: Essays are scored by trained human raters using a 6-point holistic scale, complemented by the e-rater® scoring engine. The final score is the average of the two scores, rounded to the nearest 0.5.
📚 Verbal Reasoning
Three Question Types:
1. Reading Comprehension
- Understanding passage structure
- Drawing inferences
- Identifying author's perspective
- Analyzing arguments
2. Text Completion
- 1-5 sentence passages
- 1-3 blanks to fill
- Tests vocabulary in context
- Requires logical reasoning
3. Sentence Equivalence
- Single sentence with one blank
- Choose TWO answers
- Both must create similar meanings
- Tests vocabulary mastery
🔢 Quantitative Reasoning
Four Question Types:
1. Quantitative Comparison
Compare two quantities and determine their relationship
2. Multiple Choice (Single)
Select one correct answer from five choices
3. Multiple Choice (Multiple)
Select one or more correct answers
4. Numeric Entry
Enter your answer as an integer or decimal
Content Areas Covered:
- Arithmetic: Properties and types of integers, divisibility, factorization, prime numbers, remainders, percentages
- Algebra: Linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, functions, coordinate geometry, systems of equations
- Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, circles, quadrilaterals, 3D figures, coordinate geometry
- Data Analysis: Mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, probability, distributions, graphs, tables
Key Math Concepts (Examples):
Pythagorean Theorem: \( a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \)
Area of Circle: \( A = \pi r^2 \)
Slope of Line: \( m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1} \)
Compound Interest: \( A = P\left(1 + \frac{r}{n}\right)^{nt} \)
GRE Test Dates 2025-2026
⚠️ Important: The GRE General Test is available year-round at test centers worldwide and as an at-home test. You can schedule your test date at your convenience, subject to availability.
GRE General Test Schedule
| Test Center Testing | Available year-round at authorized Prometric test centers |
| At-Home Testing | Available 24/7 throughout the year |
| Retesting Policy | Once every 21 days, up to 5 times per 12-month period |
| Registration Deadline | At least 2 days before test date (subject to seat availability) |
GRE Subject Test Dates 2025-2026
GRE Subject Tests (Mathematics, Physics, Psychology) are offered three times per year at designated test centers:
| Test Window | Test Dates |
|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | September 8 - September 21, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 (Second Window) | October 13 - October 26, 2025 |
| Spring 2026 | April 20 - May 3, 2026 |
Note: Subject test registration has specific regular and late deadlines. Visit the official ETS website for detailed registration information.
Official GRE Practice Test Resources
⭐ Best Practice: Use only official ETS practice materials for the most accurate test preparation. Third-party tests may not accurately reflect the actual GRE difficulty and question format.
Official ETS POWERPREP Resources
🆓 FREE Official Resources
- POWERPREP Online Preview Tool - Sample questions from all sections
- 2 Free Full-Length Tests - POWERPREP Online Practice Tests (with scores for Verbal & Quant)
- Official GRE Practice Book - 100+ pages of math review
- Sample Essay Responses - Scored writing samples with explanations
💳 Paid Official Resources
- POWERPREP PLUS Online - 3 additional full-length tests ($39.95 USD each)
- Complete Scores - Includes Analytical Writing scores
- Explanation of Answers - Detailed explanations for all questions
- Realistic Practice - Most accurate simulation of actual test
📚 Additional Official Materials
- Official GRE Super Power Pack - Bundle of official guides
- Math Review (100+ pages) - Comprehensive math concepts
- Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions - 150+ questions
- Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions - 150+ questions
GRE Test Preparation Strategy
Recommended 3-Month Study Plan
Month 1: Foundation Building
- Take a diagnostic test to establish baseline scores
- Review fundamental math concepts (algebra, geometry, arithmetic)
- Start vocabulary building (15-20 new words daily)
- Study question types and strategies for each section
- Complete 50% of official practice questions
Month 2: Skill Development
- Take 2-3 full-length practice tests
- Focus on weak areas identified in practice tests
- Practice timed sections to build speed and stamina
- Write 5-10 practice essays and self-evaluate
- Complete remaining official practice questions
Month 3: Test Mastery & Review
- Take 3-4 full-length practice tests under real conditions
- Review all incorrect answers and understand mistakes
- Refine test-taking strategies (time management, guessing)
- Final vocabulary review and math formula memorization
- Take final practice test 1 week before actual test
Essential Preparation Tips
- 📅 Start Early: Dedicate 2-3 months (minimum) for comprehensive preparation. Longer preparation (4-6 months) is ideal for those targeting top scores (325+).
- 📊 Take Diagnostic Tests: Begin with an official practice test to identify strengths and weaknesses. Focus extra time on weak areas.
- 📚 Master Vocabulary: Build a strong vocabulary foundation using flashcards, word lists, and contextual learning. Aim for 1,000+ high-frequency GRE words.
- 🔢 Refresh Math Fundamentals: Review high school algebra, geometry, and arithmetic. The GRE tests problem-solving, not advanced math.
- ✍️ Practice Essay Writing: Write at least 10-15 practice essays. Focus on clear argumentation, structure, and grammar.
- ⏱️ Simulate Test Conditions: Take full-length practice tests in one sitting, adhering to time limits and using on-screen calculator when appropriate.
- 🎯 Learn Test Strategies: Master techniques like process of elimination, strategic guessing, and time management for each section.
- 📖 Use Official Materials: Prioritize official ETS materials over third-party resources for the most accurate practice.
- 🔄 Review Mistakes Thoroughly: Understand WHY you got questions wrong, not just what the correct answer is.
- 💤 Rest Before Test Day: Get 8 hours of sleep the night before, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive early to the test center.
Understanding Your GRE Scores
GRE Score Ranges & Percentiles
| Score Range | Percentile Range | Performance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal: 160-170 | 90th-99th | Excellent - Competitive for top programs |
| Verbal: 150-159 | 60th-89th | Good - Above average performance |
| Quant: 165-170 | 85th-99th | Excellent - Top quantitative ability |
| Quant: 155-164 | 50th-84th | Good - Solid quantitative skills |
| Writing: 4.5-6.0 | 80th-99th | Strong - Excellent analytical writing |
What is a Good GRE Score?
"Good" is relative to your target programs. Average GRE scores for admitted students vary by program and university:
- Top 10 Graduate Programs: Typically require 320+ (160V + 160Q) or higher
- Top 25 Programs: Generally expect 315+ (155V + 160Q) or higher
- Top 50 Programs: Often require 310+ (150V + 160Q) or higher
- Average Scores (All Test-Takers): Verbal: ~150 | Quantitative: ~153 | Writing: ~3.6
Official GRE Links & Resources
| Official GRE Website | www.ets.org/gre |
| Register for GRE General Test | Registration Portal |
| Schedule Your Test | Test Scheduling |
| Free POWERPREP Practice Tests | POWERPREP Resources |
| GRE Test Content & Structure | Content Overview |
| GRE Subject Tests Schedule | Subject Test Dates |
| GRE At-Home Testing | At-Home Test Information |
| ETS Main Website | www.ets.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the GRE valid?
A: GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. This gives you flexibility in planning your graduate school applications.
Q: Can I use a calculator on the GRE?
A: Yes! An on-screen calculator is provided for the Quantitative Reasoning sections only. However, many questions are designed to be solved more efficiently without a calculator.
Q: Should I take the GRE at home or at a test center?
A: Both options provide the same test and scores. Choose based on your preference: at-home offers convenience and flexible scheduling, while test centers provide a controlled environment without home distractions.
Q: What is a competitive GRE score?
A: It depends on your target programs. Generally, 320+ (160V + 160Q) is competitive for top-tier programs, while 310+ (155V + 155Q) is solid for many graduate schools. Research average scores for your specific programs.
Q: How many times can I take the GRE?
A: You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to 5 times within any continuous 12-month period. Most programs consider your best scores or allow score select options.
Q: When should I take the GRE?
A: Take the GRE at least 6-8 weeks before your earliest application deadline. This allows time for score reporting (typically 10-15 days) and potential retakes if needed. For fall admissions, October-November is ideal.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article provides comprehensive information about the GRE test and practice resources based on official ETS sources and publicly available information as of 2025. However, GRE policies, test format, scoring, and requirements are subject to change without notice. Test-takers are strongly advised to verify all information through the official ETS website at www.ets.org/gre before registering or making any decisions. Test dates, fees, registration deadlines, and policies may vary by location and are subject to availability. Practice test resources mentioned are for informational purposes—always prioritize official ETS materials for the most accurate preparation. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered official testing guidance. Individual program requirements and score expectations vary significantly—consult specific graduate programs for their GRE requirements and expectations.
About the Author
Adam
Co-Founder @ RevisionTown
Math Expert specializing in various curricula including IB, AP, GCSE, IGCSE, and more