Get Ready for a New GRE Experience

Attention all future graduate students! The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) — a critical stepping-stone on your journey to postgraduate studies — is undergoing some significant transformations. Effective from September 22, 2023, these updates aim to make the GRE a more efficient, less exhausting experience without sacrificing the exam’s integrity or purpose.

The Evolution: Condensed, But Just as Comprehensive

The most dramatic change in the GRE is its total duration. Traditionally, the test has spanned nearly four laborious hours. Come September 2023, that duration will be slashed by half to slightly under two hours. This shift is meant to lower the stress levels and mental fatigue that can accompany such a long exam.

But don’t worry about the test losing its rigor or relevance. The shorter GRE will retain the same scoring standards, ensuring continuity and comparability for those who’ve taken the exam before and after the update.

Breaking Down the New GRE Sections

The revised GRE will still assess the same three skill areas as before: Analytical Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. However, there will be fewer questions within the Verbal and Quantitative sections.

Analytical Writing

The Analytical Writing section will now consist of a single task instead of two. The “Analyze an Argument” task is being eliminated, leaving only the “Analyze an Issue” task. However, the time allowance for this section remains unchanged at 30 minutes.

Quantitative Reasoning

The Quantitative Reasoning section is also getting a makeover. While the structure stays the same, the total number of questions will drop from 40 to 27, spread over two sections. The allotted time for these questions will be around 47 minutes.

Verbal Reasoning

The Verbal Reasoning section is mirroring the changes seen in the Quantitative section, with a reduction in questions from 40 to 27. These questions will be split across two sections, and you’ll have approximately 41 minutes to complete them.

Faster Score Delivery

Another welcome update is the faster return of official scores. Instead of the previous wait of 10-15 days, you can expect your official results within a brisk 8-10 days, allowing for a quicker application submission.

Study Resources and Sign-ups

Despite these changes, your current preparation resources remain valid since the question types are largely unchanged.

If you’re ready to tackle the new format, registration is already open. Secure your slot by selecting a test date on or after September 22, 2023. If you’re taking your exam on or after this date and are studying in advance (and you should be!), remember that you should omit preparing with any of the “Analyze an Argument” questions in the Analytical Writing section, as they won’t be featured on the revised version of the GRE.

The Reason Behind the Refresh

This comprehensive GRE refresh is driven by test-taker feedback and thorough examination by test development and psychometrics experts. The objective? To enhance the test-taking experience for future students while ensuring schools continue to receive reliable, meaningful scores for decision-making.

Wrapping Up

The refreshed GRE promises a more streamlined, less intimidating testing process, all while maintaining its core mission and quality. As you prepare for your graduate journey, be ready to embrace these changes. Remember, change is often a catalyst for success. Here’s wishing you all the best in your GRE preparation!