GRE Complete Guide: Format, Scores, Fees, Registration and Preparation Strategy

Originally published July 2026. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.

What Is the GRE General Test?

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test, administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), is one of the most widely accepted standardised exams for graduate and business school admissions worldwide. Whether you plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Engineering at a US university, an MBA in Canada, or a research PhD in Europe, the GRE score is frequently a critical part of your application.

For students in Nepal, the GRE is particularly important because most popular study-abroad destinations — the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom — have universities that accept or require GRE scores. Understanding the test thoroughly is the first step toward earning a competitive score.

This guide covers every aspect of the GRE General Test: its structure under the current shorter format, scoring, registration, fees, preparation strategies, and university score expectations. All data points cite official ETS sources so you can rely on the accuracy of the information presented here.

The GRE Shorter Format: What Changed in September 2023

In September 2023, ETS launched a significantly redesigned version of the GRE General Test (per ets.org). The changes were designed to reduce test fatigue while maintaining the same quality of measurement and score comparability. Here is what changed:

• Total test time reduced from about 3 hours 45 minutes to approximately 1 hour 58 minutes (per ets.org).
• The Argument task was removed from the Analytical Writing section. Only the Issue task remains (per ets.org).
• The unscored/research sections were eliminated, meaning every question you encounter counts toward your score.
• The 10-minute break was removed because the shorter duration no longer necessitates one (per ets.org).
• Scores are now available in 8–10 days instead of the previous 10–15 days (per ets.org).

Critically, the score scales did not change. A 320 on the new format means the same as a 320 on the old format. Universities treat scores from both versions identically.

Detailed Section Breakdown

The GRE General Test consists of three scored sections, always beginning with Analytical Writing. The two measure sections — Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning — can appear in any order after the writing section (per ets.org). The test uses section-level adaptive testing, meaning the difficulty of your second Verbal or Quant section depends on your performance in the first section of that type (per ets.org).

Analytical Writing: The Issue Task

Under the shorter format, the Analytical Writing (AW) section contains only one task: the “Analyse an Issue” essay (per ets.org). The previously included “Analyse an Argument” task was removed.

What the Issue Task Requires

You are presented with a statement of general interest — for example, a claim about education policy, technology, or governance — and asked to develop a position on it. You must present your perspective, support it with reasoning and examples, and consider counter-arguments. You have 30 minutes to compose your essay using a basic on-screen word processor.

How the AW Section Is Scored

Your essay is scored on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments (per ets.org). It receives two independent ratings: one from a trained human reader and one from an automated scoring engine. If the two scores are in close agreement, they are averaged. If they differ substantially, a second human reader scores the essay, and the two human scores are averaged.

Most graduate programmes consider an AW score of 4.0 or above as acceptable. Highly competitive programmes in the humanities or social sciences may expect 4.5 or higher.

Verbal Reasoning: What to Expect

The Verbal Reasoning measure assesses your ability to analyse and evaluate written material, synthesise information, understand relationships among words and concepts, and recognise relationships among parts of sentences. It consists of two sections totalling 27 questions in 41 minutes (per ets.org).

Question Types

• Reading Comprehension: You read passages of varying lengths and answer questions that test understanding, inference, and critical analysis. Some questions ask you to select multiple correct answers or highlight a sentence in the passage.
• Text Completion: Passages with one to three blanks. You select the word or phrase that best completes the meaning. Each blank is scored independently — there is no partial credit.
• Sentence Equivalence: A single sentence with one blank, and you must select two answer choices that produce sentences with the same meaning.

Verbal Scoring

Verbal Reasoning is scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in 1-point increments (per ets.org). Because the test is section-level adaptive, performing well on Section 1 gives you a harder (and higher-scoring-potential) Section 2.

Quantitative Reasoning: What to Expect

The Quantitative Reasoning measure tests basic mathematical skills, understanding of elementary mathematical concepts, and the ability to reason quantitatively and solve problems with quantitative methods. It consists of two sections totalling 27 questions in 47 minutes (per ets.org).

Question Types

• Quantitative Comparison: You compare two quantities (Quantity A and Quantity B) and determine which is greater, whether they are equal, or whether the relationship cannot be determined.
• Multiple Choice (one answer): Standard problem-solving with five answer choices.
• Multiple Choice (multiple answers): Select all correct answers from a list. No partial credit.
• Numeric Entry: Type your answer directly into a box. No answer choices are provided.

On-Screen Calculator

An on-screen calculator is available throughout the Quantitative Reasoning sections (per ets.org). It performs basic arithmetic operations and square roots. While it helps with computation, over-reliance on it can slow you down. Practise mental arithmetic for straightforward calculations.

Quant Scoring

Quantitative Reasoning is scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in 1-point increments (per ets.org), identical in structure to the Verbal score.

Understanding Section-Level Adaptive Testing

The GRE uses section-level adaptive testing (per ets.org). This means that while questions within a single section are not adaptive (you can move back and forth within a section, change answers, and mark questions to review), the difficulty level of the second section of each measure is determined by your performance on the first section.

If you perform well on Verbal Section 1, your Verbal Section 2 will contain harder questions that carry more scoring weight. If your performance on Section 1 is weaker, Section 2 will be easier but will cap your maximum possible score for that measure. This is why performing strongly in the first section of each measure is strategically important.

GRE Score Ranges and What They Mean

Your GRE score report includes three separate scores (per ets.org):

• Verbal Reasoning: 130–170
• Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170
• Analytical Writing: 0–6 (in 0.5-point increments)

There is no official combined score, but many test-takers and universities informally add the Verbal and Quant scores to arrive at a “total” out of 340. A combined score above 310 is generally considered competitive for most graduate programmes, while top-tier programmes often expect 320 or above.

GRE Score Expectations at Top Universities

The table below shows approximate GRE score ranges that successful applicants typically achieve at select universities. These are not official cutoffs — most universities practise holistic admissions. These ranges are based on admitted-student profiles published by the respective institutions and should be treated as general guidance.

Many universities in Australia, the UK, and Europe are increasingly accepting the GRE in lieu of programme-specific exams. Always verify the exact requirements of each programme directly on the university website or on the ETS programme search tool at ets.org.

How to Register for the GRE

Registration is handled entirely through the ETS website (per ets.org). Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Create an ETS account: Visit ets.org and create a personal account. Use the exact name that appears on your passport, as you will need valid identification on test day. For Nepali students, this means your name must match your Nepali passport exactly.
2. Choose your test type: Select “GRE General Test” (not the GRE Subject Tests, which are separate examinations for specific disciplines).
3. Select test centre or at-home option: In Nepal, test centres are available in Kathmandu. You can also opt for the GRE at home if you have a suitable testing environment.
4. Pick a date and time: Test centres typically offer multiple dates each month. The at-home option provides even more scheduling flexibility.
5. Pay the test fee: The fee is $220 USD in most countries, including Nepal (per ets.org). Payment is made online via credit or debit card.
6. Receive confirmation: ETS sends a confirmation email with your test date, time, and location. Save this for your records.

GRE Fees: Complete Breakdown

For Nepali students, $220 is a significant investment. Budget for it early, and consider that you also need to factor in costs for preparation materials, additional score reports, and your university application fees.

GRE at Home: Taking the Test From Nepal

The GRE at home option provides the same test content, format, and scoring as the test centre experience (per ets.org). The difference is the testing environment: you take the exam on your own computer at home, monitored by a live human proctor via your webcam.

Requirements for GRE at Home

• Computer: A Windows or Mac desktop or laptop. Tablets and Chromebooks are not supported. The computer must meet ETS system requirements, which you can verify using the ETS ProctorU equipment check tool.
• Internet: A stable, reliable internet connection. Given that internet connectivity in Nepal can be variable, ensure you have a backup plan (such as a mobile hotspot) in case your primary connection drops.
• Webcam and microphone: A working webcam (built-in or external) and microphone are mandatory. The proctor needs to see you and your surroundings throughout the test.
• Private room: You must be alone in a quiet, private room with a closed door. The proctor may ask you to show the room via your webcam before the test begins.
• Desk/table: Your workspace must be clear of all unauthorized materials. Only your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse should be present.

Advantages for Nepali Students

Taking the GRE at home can be especially beneficial if you live outside Kathmandu and do not have easy access to a test centre. It eliminates travel time and costs and offers more flexible scheduling, including time slots on weekends and evenings. However, make sure your internet connection is genuinely reliable — a disconnection during the test can cause significant complications.

Score Validity and ScoreSelect

Score Validity: 5 Years

GRE scores remain valid for 5 years from the date of the test (per ets.org). If you take the GRE in July 2026, you can use those scores for applications through July 2031. This long validity period gives you the flexibility to take the test early in your academic career and use the scores when you are ready to apply.

ScoreSelect: Choose Which Scores to Send

The GRE ScoreSelect option gives you control over which scores universities see (per ets.org). This is particularly valuable if you have taken the GRE more than once:

• On test day: Immediately after completing the test and seeing your unofficial Verbal and Quant scores, you can choose to send scores from your most recent test only or from all tests you have taken in the last five years. Your four free score reports are sent based on this choice.
• After test day: When ordering additional score reports ($40 each, per ets.org), you can select scores from any specific test date within the five-year validity window.

ScoreSelect means there is less risk in retaking the GRE. If your second attempt yields a lower score, you can simply send your first score instead. This feature encourages you to retake the test if you believe you can improve, without the fear of a lower score hurting your applications.

Section-Wise Preparation Strategy

Effective GRE preparation is structured, consistent, and tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. Below are detailed strategies for each section.

Verbal Reasoning Preparation

Build vocabulary systematically. Nepali students often find the Verbal section challenging because it tests advanced English vocabulary in context. Rather than memorising long word lists in isolation, focus on learning words through reading. Read quality English-language publications — long-form journalism, academic journals, and literary non-fiction. When you encounter an unfamiliar word, note it, learn its definition, and study how it is used in context.

Master reading comprehension strategy. GRE reading passages are dense and sometimes deliberately complex. Practise active reading: identify the main argument, the author’s tone, the structure of the passage, and the purpose of each paragraph. Answer questions by going back to the passage rather than relying on memory. Practise distinguishing between what the passage states, what it implies, and what the questions are actually asking.

Practise Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence. For Text Completion, read the entire passage before looking at answer choices. Predict what word or phrase should fill each blank based on context clues, then match your prediction to the choices. For Sentence Equivalence, remember that you need two answers that produce the same meaning — focus on meaning equivalence, not just synonym matching.

Quantitative Reasoning Preparation

Review foundational mathematics. The GRE Quant section tests concepts typically covered through secondary school: arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Most Nepali students with an SLC/SEE and +2 background have covered this material, but may need to refresh specific topics. Review integer properties, ratios, percentages, exponents, coordinate geometry, probability, and basic statistics.

Learn the question types thoroughly. Quantitative Comparison questions require a different approach than standard problem-solving. You do not always need to calculate exact values — sometimes you can determine the relationship between Quantity A and Quantity B through estimation, plugging in numbers, or algebraic manipulation. Practise this specific skill.

Manage your time carefully. With 27 questions in 47 minutes (per ets.org), you have roughly 1 minute and 45 seconds per question. Some questions can be answered in 30 seconds; others may take 3 minutes. Practise identifying which questions you can solve quickly and which ones you should skip initially and return to if time permits.

Use the on-screen calculator wisely. The calculator is a tool, not a crutch. Use it for complex arithmetic, but practise mental calculation for simple operations. Clicking through the on-screen calculator for 7 times 8 wastes valuable seconds.

Analytical Writing Preparation

Study the scoring rubric. ETS publishes the AW scoring guide on its website. A 6-score essay presents an insightful analysis with well-developed ideas supported by compelling reasoning and examples. A 4-score essay is adequate but may lack depth. Understanding what each score level looks like helps you aim for the right qualities in your writing.

Practise timed essays. Write at least 10 to 15 practice Issue essays under timed conditions (30 minutes each). After writing each essay, evaluate it against the ETS scoring rubric. Focus on: clear thesis statement, logical paragraph structure, specific supporting examples, and acknowledgement of counter-arguments.

Review the published topic pool. ETS publishes the entire pool of possible Issue topics on its website (per ets.org). While there are hundreds of topics, reviewing them helps you understand the types of claims you may encounter and lets you think about potential arguments and examples in advance.

Free Preparation Resources from ETS

ETS offers several free resources that should form the foundation of your preparation (per ets.org):

• POWERPREP Online: ETS provides free practice tests that simulate the actual GRE testing experience with the same interface, question types, and section-level adaptive format. These are the single most valuable preparation tools available because they come from the test maker itself. Complete them under timed, test-like conditions to get the most accurate prediction of your actual performance.
• GRE Math Review: A free PDF document from ETS that reviews the mathematical concepts tested on the Quant section. It covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis in detail. This is especially useful for refreshing topics you may not have studied recently.
• GRE Math Conventions: This document explains the mathematical conventions and assumptions used in GRE questions. Understanding these prevents misinterpretation of problems.
• GRE Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions: Free sample questions with explanations available on the ETS website. Use these to familiarise yourself with each Verbal question type.
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions: Similarly, free Quant practice questions with detailed solutions are available on ets.org.
• Analytical Writing Topic Pools: The complete list of possible Issue essay topics is available for free on ets.org. Review this list to prepare for the range of topics you may encounter.
• ScoreItNow! Online Writing Practice: While this is a paid service, ETS does offer some free essay scoring feedback tools. Check ets.org for the latest availability.

Recommended Preparation Timeline

A realistic preparation timeline for most Nepali students is 8 to 12 weeks, depending on your starting level of English proficiency and mathematical readiness. Here is a suggested breakdown:

• Weeks 1–2: Take a diagnostic practice test (POWERPREP) to identify your baseline score and weak areas. Review the test format thoroughly. Begin daily vocabulary building.
• Weeks 3–5: Focus on your weaker section. If Verbal is your weakness, prioritise reading comprehension and vocabulary. If Quant is weaker, review mathematical concepts and practise problem types systematically.
• Weeks 6–8: Balance practice across all three sections. Complete timed section drills. Write practice essays under timed conditions at least twice a week. Begin taking full-length practice tests.
• Weeks 9–10: Focus on test-taking strategy: time management, question triage (knowing when to skip and return), and building mental stamina for the full two-hour session.
• Final week: Do a light review only. Do not try to learn new material. Take one final practice test, review your mistakes, and rest well before test day.

Test Day Tips for Nepali Students

Your preparation matters far more than anything you do on test day, but these practical tips help ensure you perform at your best:

• Bring valid identification. For Nepali students testing in Nepal, your passport is the accepted form of ID. The name on your ID must match the name on your ETS account exactly. Arrive at the test centre at least 30 minutes early.
• Manage your energy. Since there is no scheduled break (per ets.org), consider having a light but protein-rich meal before the test. Avoid heavy food that might make you sluggish or excessive caffeine that might cause jitters.
• Use your scratch paper effectively. You will be provided with scratch paper at the test centre. Use it to organise your thoughts during the essay, work through Quant problems, and eliminate answer choices for Verbal questions.
• Do not panic on hard questions. Remember that the second section is adaptive (per ets.org). If Section 2 of Verbal or Quant feels harder, that likely means you performed well on Section 1 and are now seeing higher-difficulty questions with more scoring potential.
• Review your scores before sending. At the end of the test, you see your unofficial Verbal and Quant scores. Use this moment to decide, via ScoreSelect, whether to send these scores or cancel them. If the scores are significantly below your practice test range, consider cancelling (you can reinstate cancelled scores later for a fee, per ets.org).

GRE Preparation in the Nepali Context

Preparing for the GRE in Nepal presents some unique considerations:

English as a second language. Most Nepali students are non-native English speakers, which makes the Verbal section the greater challenge. Dedicate at least 40 percent of your total preparation time to Verbal Reasoning. Read English-language content daily — newspapers, academic articles, essays, and books. Exposure to complex written English, especially the kind found in academic and analytical texts, directly improves your GRE Verbal performance.

Strong mathematical foundation. Nepali students generally perform well on the Quantitative section because the SLC/SEE and +2 curricula cover the relevant mathematical concepts thoroughly. However, do not become overconfident. Practise the specific question formats (especially Quantitative Comparison) because the GRE tests mathematical reasoning more than computational skill.

Internet reliability for GRE at home. If you choose the at-home option, invest in a reliable internet connection. A fibre broadband connection is preferable. Have a mobile data backup ready. Test your setup using the ETS ProctorU equipment check well before your test date — do not leave this to the last day.

Study groups and peer support. Connect with other GRE aspirants in Nepal. Group study helps with accountability, allows you to discuss challenging questions, and provides emotional support during the demanding preparation period.