Purpose of the General GRE

The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is designed to provide admissions committee members, career counselors, and prospective applicants with predictors of academic performance in graduate-level academic study (Masters and Doctoral programs). GRE scores are only one of several factors considered in the admission decision. Other factors include undergraduate GPA, faculty recommendation letters, application essays (personal statements), and work and other experience.

Who Designs and Administers the GRE?

The GRE is developed and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which also conducts ongoing research projects aimed at improving the test. ETS is a non-profit organization and is based in Princeton, New Jersey.

Is the GRE Required for Admission to Graduate-Level Academic Programs?

Admission requirements vary widely among schools and among programs within a school. Most graduate programs require scores for the GRE General Test or a GRE Subject Exam—or both. However, some graduate programs accept scores for the Miller Analogy Test (MAT) in lieu of GRE General Test scores.

A minority of graduate programs use—but don't require—GRE and/or MAT scores to access applicants' qualifications. Schools that do not require either GRE or MAT scores generally have relatively lenient admission standards and/or are located outside of the United States.

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