When it comes to the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), your score is only part of the picture. Percentiles play a critical role in helping universities evaluate your performance compared to other test-takers. Understanding GRE percentiles can help you interpret your results more effectively and position yourself strategically in your applications. In this blog, we’ll break down GRE percentiles, explain their importance, and explore how they influence your chances of getting into top universities.
What Are GRE Percentiles?
GRE percentiles indicate how your score compares to other test-takers. They show the percentage of people who scored lower than you in a specific section or overall. For example, if your percentile is 90, it means you performed better than 90% of all test-takers.
How Are GRE Percentiles Calculated?
ETS (Educational Testing Service), the organization that conducts the GRE, uses data from recent test-takers to calculate percentiles. They release updated GRE percentile rankings annually, which reflect the most recent performance trends.
Percentiles are calculated for:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
GRE Score vs. Percentile: What’s the Difference?
- GRE Score: Your raw score for each section, which falls within a predefined range:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130–170
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170
- Analytical Writing: 0–6
- Percentile: A rank that shows where your score stands compared to others.
For example, a Verbal Reasoning score of 160 might correspond to the 85th percentile, meaning you outperformed 85% of test-takers.
Why Do Percentiles Matter?
While your GRE score gives an absolute measure of your performance, percentiles provide context by showing how competitive your score is relative to others. Here’s why they matter:
1. University Admissions
Top universities often use percentiles to compare applicants. A high percentile demonstrates that you’re among the top performers, making you stand out in a competitive applicant pool
2. Program-Specific Expectations
Different programs prioritize different sections. For instance:
- Engineering programs may focus more on Quantitative Reasoning percentiles.
- Humanities programs may value Verbal Reasoning percentiles more.
3. Scholarship Opportunities
Some scholarships require a minimum GRE percentile. A high percentile can increase your chances of securing financial aid.
4. Competitiveness Across Cohorts
Percentiles help universities compare applicants across test dates and years. They normalize differences in performance trends over time.
Percentile Rankings for GRE Scores (2024–2025 Data)
| Section | Score Range | 50th Percentile | 90th Percentile | 99th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
130–170
|
~151
|
~162
|
~169
|
|
Quantitative Reasoning
|
130–170
|
~153
|
~167
|
~170
|
|
Analytical Writing
|
0–6
|
~3.5
|
~5.0
|
~6.0
|
*Note: Percentiles are approximate and based on ETS-reported trends.
Interpreting Your Percentile for University Applications
Here’s how to use GRE percentiles when applying to universities:
1. Research University Requirements
- Check the average GRE scores and percentiles for admitted students in your target programs.
- Aim for a percentile above the program’s average to strengthen your application.
2. Identify Strengths and Weaknesses
- A high percentile in Quantitative Reasoning can benefit STEM applicants, while strong Verbal Reasoning percentiles help humanities aspirants.
- Balance weaker sections by excelling in others.
3. Use Percentiles Strategically
- If your percentiles in one section are significantly higher, highlight those skills in your statement of purpose or resume.
- Showcase other strengths, such as work experience or projects, to offset lower percentiles.
How to Improve Your GRE Percentiles
1. Focus on Your Target Section
- Spend more time preparing for sections that matter most to your chosen program.
- For example, if you’re applying to a business program, emphasize both Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning.
2. Take Practice Tests
- Regular practice tests help identify your current percentile rank.
- Analyze performance trends to address weak areas and boost your overall percentile.
3. Learn Time Management
- Percentiles improve when you maximize your attempts within the allotted time.
- Practice pacing yourself to ensure you complete all questions.
4. Review High-Scoring Strategies
- Study how top test-takers approach questions.
- Incorporate techniques such as elimination strategies and prioritizing easier questions first.
GRE Percentiles for Top Universities
Here are approximate percentile expectations for some prestigious institutions:
| University | Verbal Percentile | Quant Percentile | Analytical Writing Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
|
MIT (Engineering)
|
~85th+
|
~95th+
|
~80th+
|
|
Harvard (Humanities/Business)
|
~90th+
|
~80th+
|
~90th+
|
|
Stanford
|
~88th+
|
~90th+
|
~85th+
|
|
University of Chicago
|
~87th+
|
~85th+
|
~80th+
|
*Note: Percentiles vary depending on the program and cohort.
Common Misconceptions About GRE Percentiles
1. A High Score Always Equals a High Percentile
Not necessarily. If a large number of test-takers perform exceptionally well, percentiles may shift.
2. Percentiles Are Fixed
Percentiles are recalculated annually based on the performance of recent test-takers.
3. Percentiles Alone Determine Admission
While important, percentiles are only one part of your application. Universities also consider GPAs, recommendation letters, and personal statements.
Conclusions
GRE percentiles are a vital part of your test results, offering a broader perspective on your performance compared to others. They play a significant role in university admissions, scholarships, and program-specific expectations. By understanding and improving your percentiles, you can strengthen your application and increase your chances of getting into your dream program.