GRE Exam Guide 2026: Format, Syllabus & Prep Tips

GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is the most difficult examination in the world, conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service). GRE is a gateway exam that helps students to take admission to any prestigious college/university in any discipline and field across the globe.

GRE examination is primarily conducted as a computer-based test, either at an official test centre or at home (GRE at Home option), and students can choose the mode of exam according to their convenience.

The computer-based GRE General Test (current format since September 2023) lasts 1 hour and 58 minutes. The older paper-based format is no longer the standard. However, the complete GRE format, examination and the syllabus remains the same for both online and offline modes.

What is the Complete Syllabus of the GRE Examination?

GRE examination syllabus for the general test

• Analytical writing skills – This section includes clear and effective articulation of complex ideas. Support ideas with proper reasoning and examples. Examination claims with supporting evidence and making a coherent decision, and controlling the elements of the standard English language.
• Verbal reasoning – Analysing and drawing the conclusion from discourse like incomplete data, author’s intent, multiple meanings, etc. Summarise text, understand its structure, and separate major points from irrelevant ones.
• Quantitative reasoning – Basic mathematical skills and the ability to reason quantitatively, covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis at roughly a high school level.

Subject-based test syllabus

• Mathematics – Calculus, Algebra (linear, abstract, and number theory), and additional topics such as real analysis, discrete mathematics, and probability.
• Physics – Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Optics and Wave Phenomena, Quantum Mechanics, Atomic Physics, Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics, Special Relativity, Laboratory Methods, and specialized topics.
• Psychology – Biological, Cognitive, Developmental, Social, Clinical, and Measurement/Methodology topics.

What is the Exam Format of the GRE Examination?

GRE examination format

Test Duration of GRE Examination

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for the GRE Examination?

• Age criteria – According to ETS there is no age restriction for the GRE; candidates of any age can register and take the test.

• Educational qualification – ETS sets no formal educational qualification to take the GRE, though most graduate programmes require applicants to hold or be completing a bachelor's degree.
• ID proof – All candidates willing to apply for the GRE exam must have valid ID proof to register and attend the exam.
• Taking the test – All candidates can attempt the tests 5 times yearly. However, must be a 21 day gap between every test.
• Nationality – All nationalities are included for the GRE exam.
• At-home eligibility – Almost everyone has the option to choose at home test option except students from mainland China and Iran.

What Skills and Concepts Are Required for the GRE Examination?

• Verbal content – All candidates must have a good command over verbal content like reading comprehension, vocabulary.
• Quantitative reasoning – For this section, students must have a good understanding of general mathematics like algebra, arithmetic, geometry, ratio, percentage, exponents, numerals, and statistics.
• Analytical writing – Logical reasoning, grammar, and mechanics.
• Time management – Time management is essential to complete the test within the set time without any problem.
• Under pressure performance – GRE is a high-pressure exam that requires good performance under pressure.
• Being consistent on easy problems – Consistency on easy problems is a must to obtain a high score on GRE.

What Are the Question Types in the GRE Examination?

What Should You Do After Attempting the GRE Examination?

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What Are the Best Preparation Tips for the GRE Examination?

1. Read Several Analytical Non-Fiction

2. Consistent with Your Study Plan

3. Take Multiple Online Mock Tests

4. Revision is Crucial

5. Identify Your Weak Points

6. Keep Track of Your Progress

7. Be Confident

What Should You Know Before Taking the GRE Examination?