GRE Sample Issue Essays: Top Model Essays, Writing Strategies & Sample Responses for High Scores

Latest Update:  You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, with a maximum of five attempts within 12 months (365 days). For the latest GRE test dates in May 2025, the available dates are: May 12th to 16th (recently closed) May 18th to 23rd May 26th to 30th

The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) Issue Essay, a sole task in the analytical writing section, requires you to develop and support a position on a given topic within 30 minutes. 

In the recent testing cycle, India's average GRE analytical writing score was 3.1 out of 6, trailing behind the USA average of 3.9 and Singapore's 4.4. This gap underscores a common challenge for Indian test-takers: crafting clear, persuasive essays under time pressure.

This blog aims to bridge that performance gap by providing high-quality GRE sample issue essays, strategic writing tips, and time management techniques customized for Indian students. 

GRE Sample Issue Essays: Top Examples and Analysis

If you aim for a 5.0 or 6.0 in GRE analytical writing, studying top-scoring sample GRE issue essay responses is essential. ETS gives good GRE scores based on your ability to take a clear position, organize ideas logically, and write clearly under time pressure, not just your grammar.

Take this example: in a published 6.0 essay, the writer takes a clear stance on the topic ("Government should prioritize public health over space exploration"), backs it with three logically structured arguments (budget efficiency, ethical duty, and societal impact), and uses connectors to create cohesion. 

This level of structure comes from learning by example. By analyzing sample GRE issue essay responses, examining how arguments are built, examples are used, and transitions shape flow, you develop the skills to write smarter and faster.

So, before you get into some of the GRE essays, here are some quick details regarding the GRE writing task:

Parameter	Details
Task Type	Analyze an Issue
Time Allotted	30 minutes
Score Range	0 to 6, in half-point increments
Evaluation Criteria	Critical thinking Analytical writing skills  Clarity of expression  Grammar/mechanics control.
Scoring Process	Each essay is scored by a human rater and the e-rater® scoring engine.  The average of the two scores is reported.

Reviewing sample GRE issue essay responses not only reveals what high-scoring essays look like but also trains you to think critically, organize quickly, and write with purpose.

To have a basic idea, let's break down a typical GRE Issue Essay structure, including the approximate word count for each section, to help you understand how to organize your thoughts and manage your time effectively.

Section	Purpose	Approximate Word Count
Introduction	Introduce the topic, state your position, and outline your main arguments.	60–70 words
Body Paragraph 1	Present your first supporting argument with examples.	90–100 words
Body Paragraph 2	Present your second supporting argument with examples.	100–120 words
Body Paragraph 3	(Optional) Present a third supporting argument or address a counterargument.	100–120 words
Conclusion	Summarize your position and arguments, and restate your thesis.	60–70 words

Next, let's look at some GRE sample issue essays written on some of the popular GRE Issue topics, complete with analysis of what works and why.

GRE Sample Issue Essay 1: Governments Should Focus on Public Health and Education Instead of Arts and Culture

Focus & Approach

This essay addresses the prompt: "Governments should focus on public health and education instead of arts and culture." The response argues for prioritizing public health and education, presenting logical reasoning and evidence to support this stance.

Word Count: 211

In allocating limited resources, governments must prioritize sectors that yield the most significant benefits for society. Public health and education are foundational pillars impacting a nation's well-being and economic growth. While arts and culture enrich society, they should not precede essential services like healthcare and education. Investing in public health ensures a healthier population, reducing disease burden and increasing productivity. For instance, countries that allocate substantial budgets to healthcare often experience lower mortality rates and higher life expectancy. A study by the World Health Organization indicates that nations prioritizing healthcare spending have witnessed improved overall health outcomes. Education, similarly, is a catalyst for economic development and social mobility. An educated populace contributes to a skilled workforce, driving innovation and competitiveness. According to UNESCO, each additional year of schooling can increase a person's income by up to 10%, highlighting the economic benefits of investing in education. While arts and culture are vital for preserving heritage and fostering creativity, they often rely on private patronage and can thrive without substantial government funding. In contrast, public health and education systems require consistent and significant investment to function effectively. Therefore, governments should allocate resources primarily to public health and education, ensuring the foundational needs of society are met before directing funds to arts and culture.

Strategy & Impact

The essay takes a definitive stance, emphasizing the importance of public health and education over arts and culture.

• Use of Evidence: Incorporates data from reputable sources like the World Health Organization and UNESCO to substantiate claims.
• Logical Structure: Presents arguments coherently, facilitating reader comprehension.
• Balanced Perspective: Acknowledges the value of arts and culture while justifying the prioritization of essential services.

GRE Sample Issue Essay 2: Technological Advances Have Made Our Lives More Complicated Than Before

Focus & Approach

This essay addresses the prompt: "Technological advances have made our lives more complicated than before." The response argues that while technology offers numerous conveniences, it has also introduced complexities that affect various aspects of daily life.

Word Count: 237

Technological advancements have undeniably transformed our lives, offering once-unimaginable conveniences. However, these innovations have also introduced complexities that have complicated our lives. One significant area where technology has added complexity is in the realm of communication. The proliferation of smartphones and social media platforms has led to an "always-on" culture, blurring the lines between work and personal life. A study by the American Psychological Association found that constant connectivity can lead to increased stress levels, as individuals feel compelled to respond to messages and emails promptly, regardless of the time or day. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological change necessitates continuous learning and adaptation. Professionals across various industries must keep up with new tools, software updates, and platforms to remain relevant. This constant need to upskill can be overwhelming and time-consuming, diverting attention from other essential tasks. Additionally, the convenience of online services has led to concerns about data privacy and security. With the increasing amount of personal information shared online, individuals are more vulnerable to data breaches and identity theft. According to a report by the Identity Theft Resource Center, there were over 1,100 data breaches in the United States in 2020 alone, exposing millions of records. In conclusion, while technological advancements have brought significant benefits, they have also introduced complexities that have complicated our lives. Acknowledging and addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that technology enhances, rather than hinders, our quality of life.

Strategy & Impact

The essay acknowledges the benefits of technology while highlighting the complications it introduces.

• Use of Evidence: Incorporates data from reputable sources to substantiate claims.
• Logical Structure: Presents arguments coherently, facilitating reader comprehension.
• Relevance: Addresses contemporary technology-related issues, making the essay timely and pertinent.

GRE Sample Issue Essay 3: People Learn More From Failure Than From Success

Focus & Approach

This essay addresses the prompt: "People learn more from failure than from success." The response examines the complexities of learning from failure, incorporating recent research findings to present a nuanced perspective.

Word Count: 193

The adage that failure is the best teacher is widely accepted, yet recent research challenges this notion. While failures can offer valuable lessons, studies indicate that individuals learn more effectively from successes. A study by the University of Chicago found that participants learned less from personal failures than from successes. The researchers attributed this to ego threats associated with failure, which can cause individuals to disengage and miss learning opportunities. Interestingly, the study also revealed that people learned just as much from others' failures as from others' successes, suggesting that detachment from personal failure can enhance learning. Furthermore, research published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General suggests that overestimating the likelihood of success following failure can hinder progress. This optimism bias may lead individuals to take fewer concrete steps towards improvement, under the false assumption that success is a natural outcome of failure. These findings imply that while failure has the potential to be instructive, its effectiveness as a learning tool depends on factors such as emotional response and the ability to analyze the experience objectively. Therefore, cultivating a mindset that allows constructive reflection on successes and failures may benefit personal growth.

Strategy & Impact

The essay acknowledges the traditional view of failure as a learning tool while presenting empirical evidence that challenges this belief.

• Use of Evidence: Incorporates findings from reputable studies to support the argument.
• Analytical Depth: Examines psychological factors & analytical thinking that influence learning from failure, such as ego threats and optimism bias.
• Relevance: Addresses a common belief with contemporary research, making the essay timely and thought-provoking.

GRE Sample Issue Essay 4: The Best Way to Improve Education is to Increase Teachers’ Salaries

Focus & Approach

This essay addresses the prompt: "The best way to improve education is to increase teachers' salaries." The response critically examines the relationship between teacher compensation and educational outcomes, utilizing empirical data to assess the effectiveness of salary increases as a strategy for academic improvement.

Word Count: 209

Enhancing the quality and power of education is a multifaceted challenge beyond the simplistic solution of increasing teachers' salaries. While competitive compensation is essential for attracting and retaining qualified educators, empirical evidence suggests that salary increases alone do not guarantee improved student performance. Research indicates that while higher teacher pay can reduce turnover and attract more qualified candidates, the impact on student achievement is modest. For instance, a study found that a 10% increase in teacher wages led to a 3-4% reduction in high school dropout rates, highlighting a positive but limited effect on educational outcomes. Moreover, performance-based pay structures have shown promise in enhancing teacher effectiveness and student learning. Programs that tie compensation to measurable outcomes, such as student test scores and classroom evaluations, have been associated with improved teacher performance and student achievement. However, it's crucial to recognize that professional development, working conditions, and administrative support also play significant roles in educational quality. Investments in these areas, alongside fair compensation, are necessary to create an environment conducive to effective teaching and learning. In conclusion, while increasing teachers' salaries is a vital component of educational reform, it should be part of a comprehensive strategy that includes performance incentives, professional development, and supportive working conditions to enhance academic outcomes.

Strategy & Impact

The essay acknowledges the importance of teacher compensation while emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to educational improvement.

• Empirical Support: Utilizes credible studies to substantiate claims about the effects of salary increases and performance-based pay on educational outcomes.
• Critical Analysis: Evaluates the limitations of salary increases in isolation and advocates for a holistic strategy that addresses various factors influencing education quality.
• Policy Relevance: Discusses practical implications for education policy, making the essay pertinent to real-world decision-making processes.

GRE Sample Issue Essay 5: Formal Education Limits Creativity

Focus & Approach

This essay tackles the assertion: "Formal education limits creativity." The response critically examines how best educational systems may suppress creative thinking, supported by empirical studies and expert analyses.

Word Count: 268

The role of formal education in promoting creativity has been a subject of considerable debate. While education aims to equip individuals with knowledge and skills, there is growing concern that traditional educational structures may inadvertently stifle creativity. Longitudinal studies have highlighted a decline in creative thinking among students as they progress through the education system. Dr. Kyung Hee Kim's analysis of approximately 300,000 Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT) scores revealed a significant decrease in creativity scores since the 1990s, despite rising IQ scores during the same period. This trend suggests that the current educational emphasis on standardized testing and rote learning may be contributing factors. Furthermore, many educational institutions' rigid structures and curricula often leave little room for creative exploration. A study published in the British Journal of Educational Psychology found that students from alternative educational settings, such as Waldorf schools, demonstrated higher creativity levels than their peers in traditional schools. These findings underscore the impact of educational environments on creative development. However, it's important to acknowledge that formal education can also provide a foundation for creativity by teaching critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The key lies in balancing structured learning with opportunities for creative expression. Educational reforms that integrate the arts and encourage inquiry-based learning have shown promise in nurturing creativity without compromising academic rigor. In conclusion, while formal education has the potential to limit creativity through its current structures and priorities, thoughtful reforms can transform it into a catalyst for creative growth. By fostering environments that value innovation alongside knowledge acquisition, education systems can better prepare individuals for the complexities of the modern world.

Strategy & Impact

The essay acknowledges both the limitations and potential of formal education about creativity.

• Empirical Support: Utilizes credible studies to substantiate claims about the impact of educational structures on creativity.
• Critical Analysis: Evaluates the role of educational environments and curricula in shaping creative development.
• Policy Relevance: Discusses implications for educational reform, making the essay pertinent to real-world decision-making processes.

There you go! Each essay above demonstrates how different approaches, backed by real data and clear logic, can still align with GRE scoring expectations.

Also Read: Master GRE AWA Writing With These Sample Essays

Now that you've seen how strong responses are built, let's look at the topics you can expect in GRE issue essays so you're not caught off guard on test day.

Types of Topics Included in GRE Issue Essays

The GRE Issue Essay section presents prompts that span a broad spectrum of subjects, though typically in five main categories, from education to culture & soft-skills values. It assesses your ability to analyze complex ideas and articulate your position effectively and critically. 

Understanding the common themes can help you prepare more strategically. Below is an overview of prevalent categories and sample topics:

Category	Description	Sample Topics
Education & Learning	Explores issues related to teaching methods, educational policies, student motivation, and the role of education in society.	"Educational institutions have a responsibility to dissuade students from pursuing fields of study in which they are unlikely to succeed."  "The primary goal of education should be to foster creativity and independent thinking."
Government & Society	Addresses governmental policies, societal values, public welfare, and balancing individual rights and societal needs.	"Governments should focus on solving the immediate problems of today rather than trying to solve the anticipated problems of the future."  "The well-being of a society is enhanced when many of its people question authority."
Science & Technology	Covers the impact of scientific advancements, ethical considerations in technology, and the role of innovation in society.	"Technological progress creates problems that only technological solutions can solve."  "Society should make efforts to save endangered species only if the potential extinction of those species is the result of human activities."
Personal Growth & Success	Focuses on individual development, the role of failure and success, leadership, and personal values.	"People learn more from failure than from success."  "The best way to teach is to praise positive actions and ignore negative ones."
Culture & Values	Examines traditions, cultural norms, diversity, and the tension between modernity and traditional values.	"The most effective way to understand contemporary culture is to analyze the trends of its youth."  "A nation should require all its students to study the same national curriculum until they enter college."

Familiarizing yourself with these categories and practicing with related prompts can enhance your readiness for the GRE Issue Essay task. 

Now that you know the kinds of topics to expect, let's break down what an examiner is really looking for in top-scoring essays.

Sample GRE Issue Essay Responses: What Examiners Look For

Less than 17% of GRE test-takers score a 5.0 or higher on the analytical writing section. The majority cluster around 3.0 to 4.0, not because they lack language skills, but because their arguments are either underdeveloped, unclear, or poorly structured.

ETS raters assess how well you can think through an issue, organize your reasoning, and make it convincing, under a strict test duration. The score you receive reflects your ability to respond to complex arguments with clarity, logic, and precision.

Here's a breakdown of some of the key elements that examiners look for and contribute to a top score in your sample GRE issue essays:

• Analytical Strength
  Can you critically examine the issue, present a clear stance, and explore the complexities without oversimplifying?

Your essay should demonstrate a deep understanding of complex ideas and present a well-reasoned argument.

• Logical Organization
  Does your essay follow a clear structure with a beginning, middle, and end? Are transitions used effectively?

Ideas are logically structured with clear transitions, enhancing the flow of the essay.

• Relevant Evidence & Examples
  Are your arguments supported with reasoning and examples that make sense, not vague generalizations?

Arguments are backed by relevant examples and evidence, strengthening the essay's persuasiveness.

• Clarity of Expression
  Are your ideas communicated without ambiguity or awkward phrasing?

Uses varied sentence structures and precise GRE vocabulary to convey meaning effectively.

• Grammar & Mechanics
  Do errors distract from your points? A few typos are okay, but consistent mistakes can reduce your score.

Exhibits strong control of grammar, usage, and mechanics, with minimal errors that do not interfere with meaning

By focusing on depth over decoration and planning your arguments strategically, you align with what GRE scorers actually reward.

Curious about your GRE score potential? Use upGrad's free GRE Score Calculator to estimate your scores and plan your prep smarter!

Now, let's break down a practical, step-by-step strategy to approach GRE Issue Essays efficiently, helping you plan, write, and revise within the tight 30-minute window.

How to Approach GRE Issue Essays?Step-by-Step Strategy

Test-takers who spend the first 4-5 minutes planning their essays tend to score higher on average than those who jump straight into writing. Success hinges on planning to improve time management as much as writing skill.

Here's a step-by-step approach that helps you maximize your time and write compelling essays consistently:

Step 1. Understand the Prompt and Take a Clear Position

• Identify exactly what the prompt asks. Is it asking for your opinion, an evaluation of a claim, or a discussion of alternatives?
• Choose a side early. Avoid trying to please all angles; a clear position helps your essay stay focused and persuasive.

Step 2. Plan Before Writing: Outline Your Key Points

• Note down your thesis and 2-3 supporting points.
• Think of concrete examples or data that back your arguments. Specificity beats generalities every time.
• Decide the order in which your points will appear. Strongest argument first or last, whichever suits your style.

Step 3. Write Clear Introductions and Conclusions

• Briefly rephrase the prompt and clearly state your position.
• Summarize your argument decisively. Avoid introducing new ideas here.

Step 4. Develop Coherent Body Paragraphs With Relevant Examples

• Each paragraph should present one main argument supported by evidence or examples.
• Words like “Furthermore,” “In contrast,” and “Consequently” help maintain flow and guide the reader.
• Avoid drifting into unrelated details. Stick tightly to your thesis.

Step 5. Manage Your Time Effectively

• Plan (5-7 minutes), write (20 minutes), revise (3-5 minutes).
• If you get stuck on a sentence, move on and return later if possible.
• Minor errors won't tank your score, but glaring mistakes can distract readers.

Following these steps, you develop a repeatable process that balances analytical depth with clear communication skills and efficient clock use, precisely what GRE examiners want to see.

Next, let’s look at some of the most common mistakes candidates make on the GRE Issue Essay and how you can avoid them to protect your score.

Common Mistakes in GRE Issue Essays and How to Avoid Them

Even well-prepared students can lose crucial points on the GRE Issue Essay by making avoidable errors. These mistakes often stem not from lack of knowledge but from misjudgments in understanding the prompt, structuring arguments, or language & task management effectively. 

Below, let's understand some of the most frequent pitfalls, along with actionable strategies and advice to avoid them.

1. Misinterpreting the Prompt

Misreading or misunderstanding the prompt causes your essay to stray off topic or address only part of the question. An off-topic or partially addressed response gets a lower score regardless of writing quality.

Example: If the prompt asks about the importance of government funding for education, but you focus solely on government funding for healthcare, your response will be marked down.

How to Avoid:

• Spend 1-2 minutes dissecting the prompt: underline keywords and identify the issue.
• Rephrase the question in your own words before writing.
• Map out each part you must address.
• Practice with official ETS prompts; become familiar with their typical language and structure.

2. Lack of a Clear Thesis or Stance

Essays that hedge too much or present balanced arguments without commitment fail to convince. Phrases like “While there are arguments on both sides…” followed by no clear position leave the essay directionless.

Example: “While some may argue that education is the most important aspect of society, I believe in the value of both education and the arts.” This statement lacks a firm position.

How to Avoid:

• Form a clear, firm position before writing your introduction.
• State your thesis explicitly within the first 2-3 sentences.
• Ensure every paragraph connects back to this thesis.

3. Insufficient Examples or Evidence

General claims without support are unpersuasive. For instance, saying “Education is important” without detailing how or why, or citing real data or historical facts, falls flat.

Example: Claiming “Education should be prioritized over arts and culture” without supporting evidence weakens your argument.

How to Avoid:

• Build a mental repository of concrete examples: historical events, scientific studies, well-known literature, or personal anecdotes.
• Aim for at least one detailed, relevant example per main argument.
• When possible, include statistics or studies, for instance, citing UNESCO reports or WHO data.

4. Repetitive or Vague Language

Relying on clichés, filler phrases, or repeating words dulls your essay and suggests limited vocabulary. Overusing “very,” “really,” or generic transition phrases like “In conclusion” without variety weakens impact.

Example: Using “very important” multiple times without synonyms makes your essay sound repetitive.

How to Avoid:

• Use a thesaurus and GRE reading comprehension practice to expand your vocabulary.
• Prepare a list of varied transition phrases (“Moreover,” “In contrast,” “As a result”) and use them purposefully.
• Practice writing concise sentences that carry weight.

5. Ignoring Opposing Viewpoints Without Acknowledgment

Completely dismissing alternative views can make your argument seem one-sided and less credible. Failing to mention a counterargument in prompts asking for evaluation misses a critical analytical step.

Example: Ignoring the perspective that “arts and culture are just as vital as education” makes your argument seem incomplete.

How to Avoid:

• Briefly recognize the opposing perspective.
• Explain why your thesis remains stronger despite it.
• This balance shows maturity in argumentation.

6. Poor Grammar and Spelling Mistakes

Frequent common grammatical errors distract the reader and signal poor writing command, limiting your score. Errors like subject-verb disagreement or confusing tenses can confuse the meaning.

Example: “The government should provide more funding for education, but they are not doing enough” is incorrect because "government" is singular.

How to Avoid:

• Regularly practice timed essays to reduce careless errors.
• Reserve 2-3 minutes to proofread carefully at the end.
• Focus on common errors: punctuation, agreement, and verb tenses.

By recognizing and actively addressing these common errors, you improve not just your essay's polish but its persuasive power and clarity, which are crucial for hitting the 5.0+ score range.

Also Read: A Complete Guide on How to Prepare for GRE in 2 Months

Next, let’s explore some practical writing tips and strategies that go beyond the basics and get you noticed by examiners.

GRE Issue Essay Writing Tips to Score 4.5+ or Above

Achieving a score of 4.5 or higher on the GRE Issue Essay requires more than just understanding the prompt. You must demonstrate clear thinking, effective communication, and polished writing under time constraints. 

Below are tested strategies & GRE preparation tips that align with ETS scoring standards and common traits observed in top-scoring essays.

1. Stick to a Clear Structure

Essays with a clear introduction, 2–3 focused body paragraphs, and a conclusion consistently score higher. This structure guides the reader and organizes your arguments logically.

• Pro tip: Each body paragraph should cover a distinct point, supported by specific examples or evidence. Avoid mixing multiple ideas in one section.

2. Use Academic Vocabulary and Varied Sentence Structures

Using precise, formal vocabulary like “essential” or “inquire” conveys authority and sophistication, while varied sentence length and types keep the reader engaged.

• Pro Tip: Replace “very important” with “crucial” or “pivotal.” Combine short and complex sentences to maintain rhythm.

3. Incorporate Linking Phrases

Transitions like “Moreover,” “Conversely,” “As a result,” “In contrast,” and “Furthermore” improve flow and coherence, making your reasoning easier to follow.

• Pro Tip: Use these strategically to highlight contrasts, add information, or indicate consequences without overloading your essay.

4. Stay Focused on the Topic

Essays that stray into unrelated territory or include filler content lose clarity and scoring potential. Regularly ask yourself: “Does this paragraph support my thesis?” If not, revise or cut it.

• For instance, if you write on the topic like “Governments should focus on public health instead of the arts,” avoid lengthy digressions into unrelated policy areas.

5. Proofread If Time Permits

Minor grammatical or spelling mistakes can distract readers and affect your score. ETS raters tolerate minor errors, but consistent errors hurt clarity and professionalism.

• Tip: Allocate the last 2-3 minutes to skim your essay, fixing glaring mistakes and awkward phrasing.

These tips create a solid foundation for writing essays that meet and exceed GRE expectations, helping you confidently aim for scores above 4.5.

Also Read: GRE Study Materials: Best Books For GRE Preparation (Updated List 2024)

At last, let's explore some GRE preparation resources that can help you build the skills and confidence needed to score well.

Practical Sources for GRE Issue Essay Preparation

Preparing effectively for the GRE Issue Essay requires access to reliable, comprehensive resources, such as E-books by upGrad & GRE prep apps, which not only explain the test format but also provide high-quality practice materials, sample essays, and writing strategies.

Here are some trusted resources specialized for GRE aspirants to help you excel in the GRE essay writing task:

Resource	Description
GRE AWA Essay Sample Paper (Free PDF)	Access real GRE Analytical Writing sample essays with scores and comments to understand what examiners expect.
GRE Preparation Guide	A comprehensive roadmap covering all GRE sections, strategies, and tips to help you prepare effectively.
Download GRE Syllabus (Free PDF)	Get the official GRE syllabus detailing test structure, question types, and scoring to plan your study.
GRE Verbal Section: Free Sample Paper	Practice with authentic GRE verbal questions to improve vocabulary, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning skills.
ETS Official GRE Analytical Writing Guide	The gold standard resource by GRE creators explaining scoring criteria, sample essays, and prompts.

These targeted materials complement official ETS resources, providing a well-rounded preparation toolkit.

How Can upGrad Help You Prepare for GRE Sample Issue Essays?

Analyzing and learning GRE sample issue essays takes more than practice. It requires the right guidance and resources. upGrad understands the challenges Indian students face, from grappling with time management to structuring arguments under pressure. 

Our comprehensive GRE preparation materials, including detailed sample essays and targeted writing tips, are designed to sharpen your critical thinking and communication skills, directly aligning with GRE examiners' expectations.

So why wait? Schedule a free 1:1 counseling session with upGrad counsellors to get a personalized plan that targets your weaknesses and sets you up for success!