Preparing To Take The GRE

What is the GRE?

• The Graduate Record Examination is designed to measure academic aptitude in the areas of verbal skills, quantitative skills, and analytical skills.  The GRE is required by virtually every program in psychology.  It consists of two separate three hour tests: 1) the General Test which is composed of sections that measure verbal, quantitative, and analytical abilities, and 2) a Subject Test that measures understanding of psychological principles and facts.

When should I take the GRE?

• Preferably the summer prior to your senior year, this allows for time to retake the GRE if necessary. 
  

How do you register for the GRE?

• The best way to register for the GRE is online at the GRE website, www.gre.org.  This website provides a list of testing centers in the area as well as available dates.
  

Can I study for the GRE?

• YES!  The best way to study is through the use of study guides (available in book form or on CD).  There is a cd program available to students on the on-campus computers.  It is important to take practice tests in order to become familiar with the format of the exam.

Should I take the Psychology Subtest?

• If you know for sure that all of the graduate schools that you are applying to do not require the subtest, then don’t take it, otherwise it is a good idea.

Taking the GRE:

• It is important to get plenty of sleep the night before the exam.  Also, make sure you arrive early to the test site.

Retaking the GRE

• It is not likely that retaking the GRE will improve your scores unless you did not study the first time, or you were ill the first time.

Important things to remember:

• You are not permitted to use calculators during the exam. Scratch paper will be provided for you at the testing center.  Also, the storage space for personal items is very limited, so be sure to only bring necessary personal items.