The GRE General Test takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete. The test includes five sections: two Analytical Writing sections (30 minutes each for the Issue and Argument tasks), two Verbal Reasoning sections, and two Quantitative Reasoning sections. There is no scheduled break between sections, though you can take unscheduled breaks that count against your testing time.

The GRE General Test costs $220 in the United States. ETS offers a fee reduction program for test takers who demonstrate financial need, reducing the fee by 50%. Additional fees apply for late registration ($25), rescheduling ($50), and sending score reports beyond the four free ones included with registration ($35 per recipient).

Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided during the Quantitative Reasoning sections of the GRE. The calculator handles basic arithmetic operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and square roots. You cannot bring your own calculator to the test center. The calculator is intentionally basic, so strong mental math and estimation skills remain important for pacing.

The GRE Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are each scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in one-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments. Your total possible score ranges from 260 to 340 for the two main sections combined. Scores are available in your ETS account approximately 8 to 10 days after the test.

You can take the GRE General Test up to five times within any continuous 12-month period. There must be at least 21 days between attempts. ETS offers a ScoreSelect option that lets you decide which set of scores to send to institutions, so a lower score on one attempt does not have to be reported to your target programs.

The GRE Verbal Reasoning section contains two subsections with approximately 12 questions each, totaling around 27 questions. Question types include Reading Comprehension (multiple-choice and select-in-passage), Text Completion (fill in blanks with vocabulary), and Sentence Equivalence (select two words that produce equivalent meanings). The section tests critical reading, vocabulary in context, and analytical reasoning skills.

No, GRE requirements vary significantly by program and institution. Many graduate programs have made the GRE optional or eliminated it entirely, particularly since 2026. Business schools often accept the GRE as an alternative to the GMAT. Check directly with your target programs for current requirements, as policies change frequently. Some programs that list it as optional may still favor applicants who submit strong scores.

Yes, ETS offers the GRE General Test at home through its online proctoring system. The at-home version has the same content, format, scoring, and price as the test center version. Requirements include a reliable computer with a working camera and microphone, a private room, and a stable internet connection. A human proctor monitors you through your webcam throughout the entire session.