You’ve finished the GRE, and now you have your score report in hand. But what do those numbers and percentiles really mean? Understanding your GRE results is important to figure out where you stand and how to improve. Don’t worry—this guide simplifies everything for you!
GRE Scoring Basics
What Are the GRE Sections?
The GRE tests three main skills:
- Verbal Reasoning: Your ability to analyze and understand written content.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Your math skills and problem-solving abilities.
- Analytical Writing: How well you can write arguments and explain ideas clearly.
How Are Scores Calculated?
Each section is scored differently:
- Verbal & Quantitative Reasoning: Scored between 130 and 170 in 1-point increments.
- Analytical Writing: Scored between 0 and 6 in half-point increments. These scores reflect your performance compared to other test-takers worldwide.
What Do Percentiles Mean?
Percentiles tell you how you compare to others. For example, a 90th percentile score means you performed better than 90% of test-takers.
- High percentiles can boost your application and make you stand out to schools.
- Focus on percentiles for your target program—some value Quant scores more, while others care about Verbal or Writing.
How to Read Your GRE Score Report
Your score report includes:
- Section Scores: Your Verbal, Quant, and Writing scores.
- Percentiles: These show how you rank against other test-takers.
- Feedback on Writing: You’ll get comments about your Analytical Writing section, which can help you understand your strengths and areas to improve.
Look at patterns in your scores. Did you perform better in Verbal than Quant? Did your Writing score align with your expectations? Identifying these trends helps you plan your next steps.
What Do Grad Schools Look For?
Schools weigh your GRE scores differently based on the program:
- STEM programs: Usually focus more on Quantitative scores.
- Humanities and social sciences: Often prioritize Verbal and Writing scores.
- Business schools: Some programs value a balanced score across all sections.
Research the specific requirements of your target schools. This will help you understand what scores you need to aim for.
Set Your Goals
To determine what’s a “good” GRE score for you, follow these steps:
- Research School Averages: Find the average GRE scores for admitted students in your target programs.
- Set a Target Score: Aim for a score that meets or exceeds these averages.
- Plan for Improvement: If your scores fall short, focus on the sections where you can improve the most.
Should You Retake the GRE?
Retaking the GRE might make sense if:
- Your scores don’t meet your target school’s requirements.
- You think you can improve with focused preparation.
Tips for Retaking:
- Review your weakest areas.
- Take official GRE practice tests to track your progress.
- Use study resources like online courses or tutors.
Common Missteps to Avoid
- Ignoring Your Analytical Writing Score: Even though it’s just one section, it shows your ability to communicate ideas—a key skill in grad school.
- Misinterpreting Percentiles: A high score doesn’t always mean a high percentile, especially for highly competitive sections like Quant.
Planning Your Next Steps
Once you understand your scores, it’s time to plan:
- Align Scores with Applications: Make sure your GRE scores match the timelines for your school applications.
- Use Scores Strategically: Highlight your strengths in your applications, especially if one section is much stronger than the others.
- Consider Scholarships: Some schools and programs offer scholarships for high GRE scores—be sure to explore these opportunities.