What Is a Good GRE Score Range

I. How the GRE Is Scored

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a formal assessment provided by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and utilized by many graduate programs to evaluate applicant preparedness for graduate-level studies and above. GRE test takers are graded in three key areas; testers receive verbal and quantitative scores, as well as an analytical writing score exhibiting their writing skills. The verbal and quantitative sections are scored on a scale from 130 to 170, and the analytical writing section is scored on a scale from 0 to 6. It should be noted that good GRE scores are also contingent on the program you hope to enter. Refer to the chart below to understand how each section of the GRE is scored:

II. What are GRE scores?

GRE scores are intended to measure a test-taker’s preparedness for graduate-level work and are measured in the three following sections: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The verbal and quantitative sections are scored individually on a scale from 130 to 170 in one-point increments. The scaled GRE scores are accompanied by GRE score percentiles showing how a test-taker did when compared with other test takers. For instance, if you had a GRE verbal reasoning score of 160, you would be in the 85th percentile and would have better GRE scores than 85 percent of your peers. Contrarily, a 160 in quantitative reasoning corresponds to the 50th percentile on the GRE scores chart. The analytical writing section is scored differently using a scale from 0 to 6. Refer to the chart below for a visual of the connection between scaled GRE scores and the matching percentile scores for the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections:

III. What Is Considered a Good GRE Score?

In order to gain a better understanding of what constitutes strong GRE scores, refer to the charts below referencing GRE score percentiles. These numbers are intended to demonstrate how your scores would compare to those of fellow GRE test takers. For instance, a verbal score achieved in the 90th percentile indicates that you scored better than 90% of others who took the test. It should be noted that, although many graduate programs consider the GRE to be only one important part of a given application, competitive GRE scores can improve your overall profile. This is especially true when a good score is coupled with a strong academic record and pertinent background experience. Good GRE scores have the ability to provide you entrance into more elite programs, as well as widen your opportunities for scholarships. As such, preparing fully and understanding GRE score ranges and how the GRE is scored can assist you in improving your chance of admission into your program of choice and potentially improve your academic success in the future. Refer to the chart below to understand what is generally considered a competitive GRE score:

IV. What Are Good GRE Scores for Your Program?

Good GRE scores for a particular program are largely dependent upon both the competitiveness of this program and the particular concentration of the field in question; however, for the most part, a GRE score between 310 and 320 (combining verbal and quantitative scores) is thought of as a strong score for many graduate programs. Regarding very competitive programs, students who are admitted into these programs often have an even higher overall GRE score, but most markedly in sections relevant to their field of study. For instance, students aiming to enter a humanities program often have higher verbal reasoning scores, and those in STEM fields may require a higher quantitative score. It is crucial to research the average GRE scores of students admitted to your program, since expectations tend to vary significantly. 

V. How to Improve Your GRE Score

In order to improve your GRE score, become familiar with the types of questions on the test and practice often. Remember that because the GRE is scored using half-point increments for the analytical writing section and whole points for the verbal and quantitative sections, minor improvements alone can improve your final score. It is important to set a study schedule for GRE preparation that is achievable for you and to spend the majority of your study time improving areas of weakness. Test takers typically spend time trying to surpass the minimum score required by their program of choice in order to be competitive against other test takers. It is useful to review your standardized test scores from past GRE attempts to isolate patterns of weakness and strength; in doing so, you can modify the study strategies you use during GRE prep. It is also helpful to take full-length practice exams using a timer to build stamina and learn to focus effectively under pressure. It may also be useful to take advantage of online forums to gain tips and advice from other test takers.