The Importance of the GRE

Admissions committees look at your GRE score to determine if you have the academic ability to succeed in graduate school. An outstanding GRE score won't necessarily get you into the school of your choice, but a low score will probably keep you out. Moreover, GRE scores are often the basis for grants and other awards that can finance your education.

How Should You Approach The GRE?

The GRE is a standardized test, and there are of approaching it — question type strategies and time-management techniques. Understanding the format of the exam and the ways you can use it to your advantage can significantly increase your score. The intensity of the GRE and the competitiveness of today's grad school admissions environment are reasons to prep formally for the exam. The structure that preparation provides can help you build the skills, techniques, and confidence to score your best. Learn more about Kaplan's programs for the GRE.

The Importance of a Great GRE Score

What you consider a good score should depend on your own expectations and goals, but you should keep in mind what scores top graduate schools consider competitive. Information on average test scores at different schools and programs is readily available. Research the schools on your list. Find out what their average GRE scores are and then develop a preparation plan to achieve it.

The GRE helps admissions officers compare your record with those of students from other schools. If your grades are lackluster, an outstanding GRE score can help you make the case that you are capable of higher academic performance than your grades illustrate. GRE scores can attest to the fact that a candidate graduated from college several years ago will be able to return to the classroom successfully.

Many graduate programs base financial aid packages, including fellowships and teaching assistantships, on the GRE, especially on your total score. Numerous state and federal financial assistance programs are based in part on the GRE. Some schools will even waive application fees for students with high GRE scores.