Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store

GRE Full Form Explained: Graduate Record Examination

ffImage
hightlight icon
highlight icon
highlight icon
share icon
copy icon
SearchIcon

What is the GRE Exam and Why Is It Important for Higher Studies?

The full form of GRE is Graduate Record Examination, which plays a significant role in global higher education. It is commonly used in graduate and business school admissions, making it essential for students aspiring to study abroad or advance their academic careers. In this article, we will explore the meaning, significance, and practical applications of GRE in the context of international education and student opportunities.


Acronym Full Form Main Role
GRE Graduate Record Examination A standardized test for admissions into graduate, MBA, and doctoral programs, widely accepted by universities worldwide.

Impact of GRE in Higher Education

The GRE plays a significant role in higher education globally. It helps students by providing a standard measure for evaluating applications to advanced degree programs. The GRE provides fair and objective assessment, ensuring equal opportunity for candidates worldwide.


  • Acts as a universal eligibility test for postgraduate admissions
  • Evaluates analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills
  • Widens chances for scholarships and financial aid

Role of GRE in University Admissions

The GRE has a significant role in the university admissions process. It is often required by universities in the USA, Canada, and other countries for master’s, MBA, and PhD applications. With the increasing reliance on GRE scores, it ensures standardization in the selection of candidates.


  • Required for most graduate and business school programs
  • Accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide
  • Allows students to apply to multiple universities with a single score

Relevance of GRE for Students

The GRE is highly relevant for students aiming to pursue higher studies internationally. It opens doors to various academic opportunities and scholarships. Understanding the GRE full form and its uses helps students plan better for global education and career advancement.


  • Essential for students targeting top-ranked universities
  • Helps in securing admissions and funding
  • Prepares students for advanced academic challenges

Additional Context: Types & Structure of GRE

The Graduate Record Examination is conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is offered as a General Test and Subject Test. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, making it a comprehensive assessment for graduate applicants.


  • GRE General Test: Tests overall aptitude and reasoning skills
  • GRE Subject Test: Specializes in disciplines like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Psychology
  • Computer-based and paper-based formats available

Key Role of GRE

The GRE is essential in international academic admissions. It impacts university selection, scholarship opportunities, and career prospects for students aiming to study abroad. Understanding its significance is crucial for students pursuing careers in global education, research, and management.


Related Resources


Page Summary

In conclusion, the GRE, which stands for Graduate Record Examination, is integral to higher education and international university admissions. Its importance in evaluating candidates for graduate and business programs makes it an essential concept for students to understand for their academic and career advancement.


FAQs on GRE Full Form Explained: Graduate Record Examination

1. What is the full form and purpose of the GRE exam?

The GRE, or Graduate Record Examinations, is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate and professional programs, primarily in the United States and increasingly internationally. Its purpose is to assess a candidate's analytical, quantitative, and verbal reasoning skills, helping universities gauge applicant suitability for postgraduate studies.

2. Is a GRE score necessary for studying in the USA?

Many, but not all, graduate programs in the USA require GRE scores for admission. The specific requirements depend on the university, department, and program. Some programs have waived the GRE requirement, particularly in recent years. It is essential to check the admissions criteria of your target programs.

3. How does the GRE differ from the IELTS and GMAT?

The GRE, IELTS, and GMAT are all standardized tests, but serve different purposes. The GRE assesses analytical, verbal, and quantitative reasoning for graduate school admissions. The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) measures English language proficiency for non-native speakers. The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) focuses on analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills specifically for business school applications.

4. What is considered a good GRE score for top universities?

There's no single “good” GRE score, as admissions criteria vary greatly between universities and programs. However, highly competitive programs often expect scores in the top percentile (e.g., above 320-330 out of 340). Checking individual program requirements is crucial, as some emphasize specific section scores (verbal, quantitative).

5. Who can take the GRE and how often is it conducted?

The GRE is open to anyone who has completed or is close to completing a bachelor's degree and intends to pursue postgraduate studies. The test is administered frequently at authorized test centers worldwide throughout the year, allowing candidates flexibility in scheduling their exam.

6. Is the GRE required for master's and PhD programs worldwide?

While the GRE is widely accepted and frequently required for graduate programs in the US and some other countries, its necessity varies significantly. Many international universities and programs utilize alternative admissions criteria, such as undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, and research experience. Always check the specific requirements of your target institution.

7. What are the sections of the GRE exam?

The GRE General Test consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Each section assesses different cognitive skills, providing a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate's aptitude for graduate-level studies.

8. How is the GRE scored?

The GRE is scored out of 340 for the Verbal and Quantitative sections combined, with a range of 130-170 in each section. The Analytical Writing section receives a separate score (0-6). The final score report details performance across all sections.

9. What is the GRE fee and registration process?

The GRE registration fee is set by ETS and varies based on location and any additional services. Registration involves creating an ETS account, selecting a test date and center, and paying the fee online. Specific instructions are available on the official ETS website.

10. What resources are available to help me prepare for the GRE?

ETS, the test administrator, offers numerous resources, including official practice tests, study materials, and preparation guides. Numerous third-party providers also offer GRE prep courses, books, and online resources, allowing candidates to choose study methods tailored to their learning style and needs.

11. What if my GRE score is lower than expected?

If your GRE score is lower than anticipated, you can retake the exam. However, carefully consider the additional cost and time commitment before scheduling a retake. Focus on identifying areas for improvement based on your score report and implementing targeted study strategies.