What Subjects Are on the GRE Exam

If you are wondering what subjects are on the GRE, the first thing to understand is that the Graduate Record Examination is not a test tied to the content of one college major. Instead, the GRE exam is built to measure broad academic abilities that matter across many fields. According to the Educational Testing Service, the GRE General Test measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills that develop over time and are not limited to one particular subject.  

That is why most test takers should think about the GRE as a skills-based exam. The general test focuses on how well you read written material, solve problems, interpret information, and communicate complex ideas clearly. Some students may also need GRE Subject Tests, but those are separate GRE tests designed for a particular field such as math, physics, or psychology.  

I. Overview of the GRE Exam Structure

The current GRE General Test includes five sections and takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes total. ETS states that the exam includes one Analytical Writing section, two Verbal Reasoning sections, and two Quantitative Reasoning sections. The Analytical Writing section always comes first. After that, the Verbal and Quantitative sections may appear in any order.  

The current section and timing blueprint is:

• Analytical Writing: 1 essay, 30 minutes
• Verbal Reasoning Section 1: 12 questions, 18 minutes
• Verbal Reasoning Section 2: 15 questions, 23 minutes
• Quantitative Reasoning Section 1: 12 questions, 21 minutes
• Quantitative Reasoning Section 2: 15 questions, 26 minutes  

The current test structure no longer includes the old unscored experimental section or research section. Those belonged to the longer pre September 22, 2023 GRE, which also had two essays instead of one. The shortened GRE now has no scheduled break and only one essay, the Analyze an Issue task.  

In practical terms, the GRE general test measures whether test takers can reason through language, work with numbers, and respond effectively in writing. The exam is accepted by many graduate programs, including business schools and law schools, which is why the Graduate Record Examination remains one of the most flexible admissions exams.  

For a full timing breakdown, see How Long Is the GRE Test.

II. GRE Verbal Reasoning Subjects

The purpose of verbal reasoning is not just testing vocabulary. The verbal reasoning section measures how well you can interpret and evaluate written material, understand arguments, and work through meaning in context. ETS explains that the GRE Verbal Reasoning section includes Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence. These question types together test how well test takers analyze language and respond to academic reading.  

A better way to think about GRE verbal reasoning is that it tests reasoning with language. You need to identify main ideas, notice tone, follow logic, and choose the correct answer based on evidence, not instinct. This part of the GRE General Test rewards precision. It asks whether you can engage with complex ideas, understand structure, and draw conclusions from what is actually on the page.  

For extra strategy help, check out the article How to Improve Reading Comprehension for the GRE.

Reading Comprehension

Reading comprehension is the largest part of the verbal reasoning measure. ETS explains that reading comprehension questions test whether students can understand words and sentences, interpret longer passages, identify major points, infer relationships, and evaluate written material carefully. These reading comprehension questions consist of tasks that require close reading rather than surface skimming.  

Strong reading comprehension depends on being able to analyze arguments, separate major claims from support, and recognize how authors build meaning across written passages. Many students miss points because an answer sounds good, not because it is supported. On the GRE, the correct answer has to match the passage, not just sound reasonable.

Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence

Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence test how well you understand meaning in context. In text completion, you fill in blanks so a sentence or passage makes logical sense. In sentence equivalence questions, you select two answers that create the same meaning. ETS includes both because they test reasoning with language, not just raw vocabulary knowledge.  

These tasks require you to track transitions, tone, and sentence structure. Good test takers learn to predict the missing idea before looking at answer choices. That helps them recognize relationships between ideas and avoid tempting traps. This is why the GRE verbal syllabus is really about reasoning through language under pressure.

III. GRE Quantitative Reasoning Subjects

The quantitative reasoning measure checks whether students can solve problems using core math concepts. ETS says the quantitative reasoning section assesses basic mathematical skills, understanding of elementary concepts, and the ability to reason with numbers using quantitative methods. That means the GRE General Test does not require advanced calculus or highly specialized college math.  

This is where many students get the wrong idea. GRE quantitative reasoning is less about advanced math and more about setup, logic, and efficiency. The section asks you to interpret information, compare quantities, and use mathematical models to solve problems. The goal is not to impress the exam with complicated math. The goal is to get to the right answer fast and cleanly.

For calculator rules and strategy, see Can You Use a Calculator on the GRE? Understand the Rules Before Test Day.

Arithmetic and Number Properties

Arithmetic and number properties are the backbone of quantitative reasoning. ETS includes topics such as integers, fractions, decimals, ratios, percent, exponents, and roots in its official math content. These are the building blocks for many quantitative reasoning questions across the exam.  

A lot of students underestimate this area because it looks basic. That is a mistake. Weak number sense leads to careless errors, poor estimation, and lost time. If your foundation is shaky, your GRE scores in math will suffer long before harder-looking questions become the issue.

Algebra

Algebra is another major part of quantitative reasoning. On the GRE, that usually means expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, and linear equations. ETS treats these as part of the expected content base for the GRE quantitative reasoning section.  

The key is not just doing algebra mechanically. You need to translate worded setups into equations, compare values, and use simple structure to solve problems efficiently. This is where many questions reward smart setup over long calculation. Good performance depends on method, not just speed.

Geometry and Data Analysis

Geometry and data analysis complete the main content areas tested in GRE quantitative reasoning. ETS includes geometry, statistics, probability, and interpretation of charts and tables in the official math content. This is where data interpretation matters, especially when you have to read graphs or compare numerical information under time pressure.  

Students should also expect quantitative comparisons, chart-based questions, and scenarios involving simple and compound interest, percentages, or summary statistics. You are often asked to build or interpret mathematical models, not just do arithmetic. In some cases, you may need to use descriptive statistics or reason from experimental data presented in a table or graph.

IV. GRE Analytical Writing Subjects

The analytical writing portion of the exam is different because you must produce your own written response. ETS states that the analytical writing section now contains one 30 minute Analyze an Issue prompt. Before the shorter GRE launched on September 22, 2023, the test had two essays, Analyze an Issue and Analyze an Argument. ETS removed Analyze an Argument in the shorter format.  

The analytical writing measure evaluates how well you can present and support a position, organize your ideas, and communicate to an academic audience. ETS says the GRE Analytical Writing measure assesses critical thinking and analytical writing skills, including the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively and support ideas with relevant reasons and examples.  

This means analytical writing is not just about grammar. The analytical writing assessment is designed to capture reasoning, organization, and clarity. It measures whether students can respond to a prompt, develop a position, and use logic and relevant examples to support ideas. That is why GRE analytical writing still matters, even though it is only one part of the general test.  

For score context, check out What Is a Good GRE Score Range.

Analyze an Issue Task

The current GRE analytical writing section includes one analytical writing task, the Analyze an Issue essay. ETS says this task asks you to evaluate an issue, consider its complexities, and develop an argument with reasons and examples. In other words, the exam wants you to provide focused responses based on the prompt rather than wander into unrelated ideas.  

High-scoring responses show critical thinking, clear organization, and control of language. The official scoring guide makes clear that the analytical writing measure is scored holistically. Strong GRE analytical writing responses support ideas with logic, acknowledge nuance when needed, and present a clear line of reasoning.  

V. GRE Subject Tests Overview

GRE Subject Tests are separate from the GRE General Test. ETS describes them as exams in specific disciplines and currently offers them in Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. A subject test is intended for students who have a strong background in one field and want to show depth, not just general academic skill.  

That is the big distinction. The general test measures transferable academic abilities, while a subject test measures what you know in one academic area. Most applicants do not need one, but some graduate departments may recommend or require a GRE subject exam depending on the program.

Common GRE Subject Tests

According to ETS, the currently active GRE Subject Tests are Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. A mathematics test may be relevant for students applying to highly quantitative programs. The Physics exam may include areas such as statistical mechanics and atomic physics, while psychology focuses on major subject knowledge within that discipline. Availability can change, which is why students should always confirm current offerings directly through ETS.  

It is also important to be current here. ETS states that the GRE Chemistry Test was discontinued after the April 2023 administration and remains reportable for five years after the test date. ETS also says the GRE Biology Test and the GRE Literature in English Test were discontinued in May 2021.  

VI. Difference Between the GRE General Test and GRE Subject Tests

The difference between these GRE tests is straightforward. The GRE General Test covers verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. A subject test is centered on one discipline and is meant to show depth in that area. One exam is broad, while the other is specialized.  

For most people, the general test is the exam that matters. It is accepted by many graduate programs, business schools, and law schools. A GRE subject exam only matters if your target department specifically wants it or if you think it will strengthen your application in a highly academic area.  

VII. Which GRE Subjects Matter Most for Your Program

The answer depends on what you are applying for. STEM applicants often need strong quantitative reasoning and may sometimes benefit from a subject test in mathematics or physics. Humanities students may benefit more from strong verbal reasoning and analytical writing. Applicants to business schools may care a lot about quant performance, while students applying to law schools should pay attention to reading and writing strength as well.  

Do not assume all programs care about the same sections. Some schools emphasize overall GRE scores, while others care more about one section than another. The only smart move is to check the admissions requirements for your actual programs.

VIII. How to Prepare for Each GRE Subject Area

For verbal reasoning, spend time with dense academic prose, passage analysis, and vocabulary in context. Practice reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence regularly so you build pattern recognition and accuracy. Focus on how authors structure claims and how answer choices shift meaning.

For quantitative reasoning, master the fundamentals first. Review arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis until the basics feel automatic. The GRE syllabus in math is manageable, but it punishes weak foundations. If you cannot work confidently with ratios, percentages, equations, charts, and comparisons, you will struggle even if you are decent at math overall.

For analytical writing, practice building a fast outline before writing. The best essays show critical thinking skills, solid structure, and direct support for each claim. Because the task is short, clarity matters more than sounding fancy. You need to make a position clear, organize your points, and support ideas cleanly from start to finish.

IX. Key Takeaways About GRE Subjects

So, what subjects are on the GRE? On the GRE General Test, the core areas are verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Those are the subjects that matter for most applicants. If a program asks for a subject test, that is a separate exam in a specific discipline such as math, physics, or psychology.  

For most test takers, the best move is simple: understand what the general test actually covers, then build a prep plan around the skills being tested. Once you know what the Graduate Record Examination is really measuring, your preparation becomes much more focused and efficient.  

X. FAQ

Q: What subjects are on the GRE exam?

A: The GRE exam includes verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing on the GRE General Test. Some students may also take GRE Subject Tests, which focus on one discipline such as mathematics, physics, or psychology.  

Q: Is math the hardest subject on the GRE?

A: Not necessarily. Many students find the math challenging because of timing and setup, not because it requires advanced math. ETS makes clear that the quantitative reasoning section emphasizes elementary concepts and basic mathematical skills rather than high-level university math.  

Q: Are GRE Subject Tests required for all graduate programs?

A: No. A subject test is not required for all programs. Most students only take one if a department recommends it, requires it, or if it helps demonstrate strength in a specific field.  

Q: Do GRE subjects differ for MS, MBA, and PhD programs?

A: The content of the GRE General Test does not change by degree type. However, different programs may emphasize different sections. For example, some business schools may care more about quant strength, while other programs may focus more on reading or writing.  

Q: Can you prepare for all GRE subjects at the same time?

A: Yes, but you need structure. Most students do best when they rotate verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing across the week while giving extra time to weak areas and the sections most relevant to their target programs.

The main fixes were these: I corrected the section structure, added the exact shortened timing, clarified that Verbal and Quant can appear in any order after Writing, and explicitly stated that the old experimental section and Analyze an Argument essay were removed.