GRE Syllabus 2024: What is the Updated Syllabus of GRE

For any student who aims to study abroad, understanding the GRE syllabus is crucial as it is an important admission requirement for universities abroad. As per the new test structure, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is now a 1 hour 58 minutes exam, divided into 5 sections. The first section of the exam is analytical writing in which you have to analyze an issue. Following this task, you have to complete two sections each in verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning.

Understanding GRE Exam Pattern and Syllabus

GRE is an admission prerequisite at most universities in countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Singapore. You should have a detailed understanding of the GRE syllabus and its exam pattern before you commit your time, effort, and resources to prepare.

Skills Tested in GRE

The GRE tests a wide range of skills essential for success in graduate school. These skills are assessed through three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.

GRE Syllabus 2024

The GRE Syllabus for 2024 can be broadly divided into General Test Syllabus and GRE Subject Test Syllabus. The General Test Syllabus covers three areas of testing: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. These are individually scored, and the universities then consider the average final GRE score.

The test is standard for every student aspiring to pursue their post-graduate programs abroad. Now, some universities demand that the applicants appear for the GRE Subject Test, which examines the applicants on their knowledge about the specific subject they wish to specialize in. The test covers a wide range of subjects in the streams of language, analytics, and science.

GRE Exam Pattern

There are two ways a candidate can take the GRE: Computer-Delivered Test and Paper-Delivered Test. The GRE is generally a computer-based test that one can take five times a year while maintaining a gap of 21 days between two attempts. In cases where a computer is unavailable or if you feel uncomfortable using computers, the GRE can also be taken as a paper-delivered test.

Section-Wise Syllabus for 2024 GRE General Test

Analytical Writing

The Analytical Writing section measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It consists of two tasks:

Analyze an Issue:

In this task, you are presented with an issue and are asked to discuss your perspective on it. You must develop a well-reasoned argument, supporting your viewpoint with relevant examples and logical reasoning. This task assesses your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

Analyze an Argument:

In this task, you are given an argument and are required to evaluate its logical soundness. Your response should focus on identifying the argument's strengths and weaknesses, providing evidence and reasoning to support your critique. This task tests your ability to understand and analyze an argument's underlying assumptions and to communicate your analysis coherently.

Verbal Reasoning

The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written material, synthesize information, and evaluate arguments. The GRE Verbal syllabus is divided into three parts:

Reading Comprehension:

This part assesses your ability to read and understand passages on various topics. You will answer questions about the main ideas, details, inferences, and the structure of the passages. Critical thinking and the ability to understand complex texts are crucial for success in this section.

Sentence Equivalence:

In this part, you are given a sentence with a blank, and you must select two words that, when inserted, create sentences with similar meanings. This tests your vocabulary, understanding of word relationships, and ability to determine the overall meaning of sentences.

Text Completion:

You are presented with passages with one to three blanks. Your task is to fill in the blanks with the most appropriate words from the given options. This part measures your ability to understand the context and meaning of a passage and to use vocabulary effectively.

GRE Quantitative Reasoning

The Quantitative Reasoning section measures your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information. The GRE Quant syllabus covers a wide range of topics:

Arithmetic:

This includes concepts such as integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and number properties. Basic arithmetic operations and their applications are fundamental to solving problems in this category.

Geometry:

Topics include properties and relations of plane and solid figures, lines, angles, triangles, circles, and various geometric shapes. Understanding and applying theorems and formulas is the key to success in this section.

Data Analysis:

This involves interpreting and analyzing data presented in graphs, tables, and other formats. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability, and data interpretation. The ability to draw inferences from data is crucial here.

Algebra:

This covers topics such as algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, and functions. You need to be proficient in manipulating algebraic expressions and solving various types of equations.

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Syllabus for GRE Subject Test

The total testing time for the GRE Subject test is 2 hours and 50 minutes for the Mathematics test and 2 hours for the Physics and Psychology tests. There are no separately timed sections. Listed below is the syllabus covered in the GRE Subject test.

Mathematics

The math subject test has around 66 MCQs based on the curriculum commonly taught in undergraduate programs. GRE math syllabus includes the following: 

• Calculus: 50%
• Algebra: 25%
• Additional Topics (like Discrete Mathematics, Geometry, Statistics): 25%

Physics

The GRE Subject test for Physics comprises approximately 70 MCQs. You will find some of the questions grouped in sets based on different physics concepts. Following are some of the topics you need to prepare:

• Classical Mechanics: 20%
• Electromagnetism: 18%
• Optics and Wave Phenomena: 8%
• Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics: 10%
• Quantum Mechanics: 13%
• Atomic Physics: 10%
• Special Relativity: 6%
• Laboratory Methods: 6%
• Specialized Topics (Nuclear and Particle physics, crystal structure, astrophysics, etc.): 9%

Psychology

The psychology subject test has around 144 MCQs based on the various branches of the subject like:

• Biological (30 questions)
• Cognitive (29 questions)
• Social (19 questions)
• Developmental (18 questions)
• Clinical (23 questions)
• Measurement/Methodology/Other (25 questions)

GRE Test Formats 

GRE General Test 

The GRE General Test assesses skills that are not specific to any particular field of study. It is available in both computer-delivered and paper-delivered formats and includes sections on Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. The previous format of the exam included 6 sections, with an overall time of 3 hours and 45 minutes. The new exam format is around 1 hour and 58 minutes with 5 sections. In the new format, students have to answer one task in the Analytical Writing section and 27 questions in Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning each.

GRE Subject Test

The GRE Subject Test evaluates knowledge in specific fields of study, such as Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. These tests are paper-delivered and are designed to measure your knowledge and understanding of the subject area.

GRE General Test Pattern

The GRE exam pattern for Computer-Delivered Tests and Paper-Delivered Tests are somewhat similar as both have 5 sections. However, the difference between the two is the total number of questions in the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. Let’s take a look at it in greater detail.

GRE Exam Pattern for Computer-Delivered Test

The computer-delivered GRE General Test is the most commonly taken format. It consists of five sections:

Analytical Writing:

• Number of Sections: 1
• Total number of questions/tasks: 1
• Allotted Time: 30 minutes 

Verbal Reasoning:

• Number of Sections: 2
• Total number of questions/tasks: 12+15
• Allotted Time: 18 minutes + 23 minutes

Quantitative Reasoning:

• Number of Sections: 2
• Total number of questions/tasks: 12+15
• Allotted Time: 21 minutes + 26 minutes 

GRE Exam Pattern for Paper-Delivered Test

The paper-delivered GRE General Test is available in areas where computer-delivered testing is not possible. It also consists of five sections:

Analytical Writing:

• Number of Sections: 1
• Total number of questions/tasks: 1
• Allotted Time: 30 minutes 

Verbal Reasoning:

• Number of Sections: 2
• Total number of questions/tasks: 15+20
• Allotted Time: 21 minutes + 28 minutes 

Quantitative Reasoning:

• Number of Sections: 2
• Total number of questions/tasks: 15+20
• Allotted Time: 24 minutes + 32 minutes 

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How to Prepare for GRE General Test

The last thing that will get you through your GRE is cramming. The GRE is an intense and extensive examination format that requires candidates to invest a reasonable amount of time and sincere effort. The recommended timeline to prepare for your GRE is at least four to twelve weeks, depending on your speed and your daily commitment to your studies. You can follow the tips below and plan your preparations accordingly:

1. Know Your Base Score: Before beginning, take a full-length practice test available online and see where you stand if you were to take the actual test soon. It will help you determine the topics you need to rework.

2. Set Your Target Score: Shortlist your prospective universities and note the score you need to aim for with them. This way, you will know your goal and be able to work towards it. 

3. Plan Your Ascend: It will take some research to arrive at the perfect plan to help you rise from your base score to the target score. Look at online testimonials of successful students and follow what suits you best.

4. Focus on Technique: Besides having a result-oriented approach, you should pay attention to how you approach each question. Find out the techniques to solve particular problems and work on bettering them.

5. Review Your Performance: Always analyze how you did in the practice tests, search for the patterns in your mistake and the questions you consistently have problems with. You will eventually see how useful that is.

6. Build Your Vocabulary: One way to enrich your vocabulary is by reading academic journals and publications. The internet will help you do this easily. Having a strong vocabulary takes you a long way in your GRE journey.

A master's degree from a reputed university abroad is an asset that helps you realize your career goals. A great GRE score is the first step to enrolling in a renowned global university. There are plenty of resources online that can help you prepare for the 2024 GRE test. You can also check out our recommended best books for GRE preparation to pave your way for a successful GRE.

How is GRE Exam Scored

The GRE is scored on a scale of 130-170 for both the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections in one-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. Scores are based on the number of correct responses, adjusted for the difficulty level of the questions.

GRE General Test Score Range

The score ranges for the GRE General Test are as follows:

• Verbal Reasoning: 130-170
• Quantitative Reasoning: 130-170
• Analytical Writing: 0-6

What Should One Do After Attempting GRE

After attempting the GRE, it’s important to take several steps to ensure you make the most of your scores and continue on your path to graduate school:

Review Your Scores:

Access your official GRE scores online through your ETS account. Review your performance in each section to understand your strengths and areas for improvement.

Send Your Scores to Schools:

Use the free score reporting option to send your scores to up to four institutions at no additional cost. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.

Evaluate Your Graduate School Options:

Compare your scores with the average scores of admitted students at your target programs. This can help you assess your competitiveness and refine your list of schools.

Prepare Your Applications:

Work on other components of your graduate school applications, including personal statements, letters of recommendation, and any required supplemental materials. Tailor each application to highlight your strengths and fit for the program.

Consider Retaking the GRE:

If you are not satisfied with your scores, consider retaking the GRE. Identify areas for improvement and develop a study plan to address them before retaking the test.

Stay Informed:

Keep track of application deadlines and requirements for each program. Stay organized to ensure you submit all materials on time.

By following these steps, you can effectively utilize your GRE scores and increase your chances of gaining admission to your desired graduate programs.

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