Introduction
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a globally accepted entrance test for admissions to graduate, MS, MBA, and PhD programs in top universities worldwide. Conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the GRE evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
In 2025, ETS introduced significant changes, including reducing the test duration and removing experimental sections. The new GRE pattern consists of three sections:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the GRE exam format, including test structure, section-wise analysis, scoring system, and preparation tips.
GRE Exam Pattern 2025: Overview
The GRE General Test consists of 55 questions divided into three main sections. The total duration of the GRE exam is 1 hour 58 minutes, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
GRE General Test Structure
|
Section
|
No. of Questions
|
Time Duration
|
|
Analytical Writing
|
1 task – "Analyze an Issue"
|
30 minutes
|
|
Quantitative Reasoning
|
Section 1: 12 questions
Section 2: 15 questions
|
Section 1: 18 minutes
Section 2: 26 minutes
|
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
Section 1: 12 questions
Section 2: 15 questions
|
Section 1: 21 minutes
Section 2: 23 minutes
|
|
Total
|
5 Sections: 55 Questions
|
1 hour 58 minutes
|
Section-Wise Breakdown of GRE Exam Pattern 2025
1. Analytical Writing
- This section tests critical thinking, argument evaluation, and persuasive writing skills.
- Task: "Analyze an Issue" – Candidates must evaluate a topic, construct an argument, and support it with reasoning.
- Time Duration: 30 minutes
2. Quantitative Reasoning (Math Section)
- Focuses on mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and data interpretation.
- Structure:
- Section 1: 12 questions (18 minutes)
- Section 2: 15 questions (26 minutes)
- Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic (Ratios, Percentages, Number Properties)
- Algebra (Equations, Functions, Graphs)
- Geometry (Angles, Circles, Triangles, Coordinate Geometry)
- Data Analysis (Statistics, Probability, Data Interpretation)
3. Verbal Reasoning (English Section)
- Assesses reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary knowledge.
- Structure:
- Section 1: 12 questions (21 minutes)
- Section 2: 15 questions (23 minutes)
- Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension – Understanding and analyzing passages.
- Text Completion – Filling in missing words in sentences.
- Sentence Equivalence – Choosing two words that complete a sentence with the same meaning.
GRE Subject Test Pattern 2025
For students applying to specialized graduate programs, ETS offers GRE Subject Tests in Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
|
GRE Subject Test
|
No. of Questions
|
Test Duration
|
Question Distribution
|
|
Mathematics
|
66 MCQs (UG-level topics)
|
2 hours 50 minutes
|
Algebra (25%)
Calculus (50%)
Additional Topics (25%)
|
|
Physics
|
70 MCQs (Diagrams, graphs, related topics)
|
2 hours
|
Classical Mechanics (20%)
Electromagnetism (18%)
Optics & Wave Phenomena (9%)
Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics (10%)
Quantum Mechanics (12%)
Atomic Physics (10%)
Special Relativity (6%)
Laboratory Methods (6%)
Specialized Topics (9%)
|
|
Psychology
|
144 MCQs
|
2 hours
|
Biological (17-21%)
Cognitive (17-24%)
Developmental (12-14%)
Social (12-14%)
Clinical (15-19%)
Measurement/Methodology/Other (15-19%)
|
GRE Scoring System
The GRE scoring system evaluates each section on a specific scale.
|
Section
|
Score Range
|
Score Increment
|
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
130 – 170
|
1-point
|
|
Quantitative Reasoning
|
130 – 170
|
1-point
|
|
Analytical Writing
|
0 – 6.0
|
0.5-point
|
- No negative marking – Candidates should attempt all questions.
- Score Select Option – Test-takers can choose which scores to send to universities.
Key Changes in GRE Exam Pattern 2025
- Shorter Test Duration: The GRE is now 1 hour 58 minutes, making it one of the shortest graduate exams.
- Fewer Questions: Reduction in Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections.
- No Experimental Section: The unscored research section has been removed.
- vNo Negative Marking: Candidates are encouraged to attempt all questions.
GRE Preparation Tips
A well-planned GRE study strategy is essential to achieving a high score.
Best Practices for GRE Preparation
- Start preparation at least 3-4 months in advance.
- Take full-length practice tests to build time management skills.
- Improve vocabulary and reading comprehension with academic papers and books.
- Focus on quantitative skills by practicing problem-solving techniques.
- Analyze mistakes and refine weak areas after mock tests.
Conclusion
The GRE Exam Pattern 2025 has been updated to make the test shorter and more efficient while maintaining its role as a key admission criterion.
- Total duration is 1 hour 58 minutes with 55 questions.
- The computer-based GRE is adaptive, adjusting difficulty based on performance.
- The new pattern eliminates the experimental section, making the exam more streamlined.
By understanding the latest GRE test format and changes, students can plan their preparation effectively and achieve their target scores.
FAQs on GRE Exam Pattern 2025
1. What is the latest GRE exam pattern for 2025?
The GRE exam pattern 2025 consists of three sections:
- Verbal Reasoning (27 questions)
- Quantitative Reasoning (27 questions)
- Analytical Writing (1 task)
The total test duration is 1 hour 58 minutes, and there is no negative marking.
2. How many sections are there in the GRE General Test?
The GRE General Test consists of three sections:
- Analytical Writing – 1 task (30 minutes)
- Quantitative Reasoning – 2 sections (18 & 26 minutes)
- Verbal Reasoning – 2 sections (21 & 23 minutes)
3. What is the duration of the GRE exam?
The total duration of the GRE General Test is 1 hour 58 minutes.
4. Is the GRE a computer-based or paper-based test?
- The GRE General Test is computer-based and adaptive, meaning the difficulty level of the second section depends on performance in the first section.
- The GRE Subject Tests are paper-based and conducted for Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
5. Does the GRE have negative marking?
No, there is no negative marking in the GRE exam. Candidates should attempt all questions without worrying about score deductions.
6. How is the GRE exam scored?
The GRE scoring system is as follows:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130 – 170 (1-point increment)
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130 – 170 (1-point increment)
- Analytical Writing: 0 – 6.0 (0.5-point increment)
7. How many times can I take the GRE in a year?
Candidates can take the GRE General Test up to 5 times in a rolling year, with a minimum gap of 21 days between two attempts.
8. What is the difference between the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test?
- The GRE General Test evaluates verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills.
- The GRE Subject Test is designed to assess expertise in Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
9. What are the changes in the GRE exam pattern in 2025?
The key changes in the GRE exam pattern 2025 include:
- Reduced test duration (from 3 hours 45 minutes to 1 hour 58 minutes)
- Fewer questions in Verbal and Quantitative sections
- No experimental section
- No negative marking
10. Can I take the GRE at home?
Yes, ETS offers a GRE at-home testing option, which follows the same structure and scoring pattern as the test taken at a physical center.
11. What is the validity of GRE scores?
GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
12. What is a good GRE score for top universities?
A competitive GRE score for top universities:
- Verbal Reasoning: 158+
- Quantitative Reasoning: 160+
- Analytical Writing: 4.5+
13. Is GRE required for MBA admissions?
Yes, many top business schools, including Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton, accept GRE scores for MBA programs, along with the GMAT.
14. Can I use a calculator in the GRE exam?
Yes, a basic on-screen calculator is provided for the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE General Test.
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