The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a test that is asked for at the time of admission by most universities in the USA, Canada and a few other countries for Graduate, Law and Business schools. The Educational Testing Service, ETS, conducts the test, which measures how qualified you are to pursue the program. 

The GRE tests your geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis skills. It also tests how good you are at solving problems critically. If you are thinking about pursuing your graduate degree in the USA, Canada or other similar countries, it is better to learn about GRE. You can read the blog completely and then prepare for the test accordingly.

GRE 2023: Key Highlights

The table below will help you get a few highlights of the GRE test. It will help you know some quick facts easily.

What is GRE Cutoff?

The GRE cutoff is determined by the university, and it is not easy to state that you should obtain a particular score to get admission to any university. Additionally, the minimum GRE score requirement is also based on the program you choose. Some universities accept a GRE score from 290-300, while other top-tier universities accept you only if you have a GRE score of at least 300.

A few top US universities, like the University of Harvard, MIT, University of California - Berkeley, University of Stanford etc., accept a GRE score from 150-165. However, to get admission to MS or PhD programs at top universities in the USA, you may need a score above 320. This can again change every year. The GRE test has three sections. They are given below.

• GRE Verbal (measured on a scale from 130-170).
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning (measured on a scale from 130-170).
• GRE Analytical Writing (measured on a scale from 0-5).

Top Universities that Accept GRE Scores

Most universities worldwide ask for the GRE score. As such, it is always a good idea, as it adds weight to your application even though the university has not made GRE a mandatory requirement. A few top universities and the score requirements are tabulated below.

Universities for GRE Score of 330

As mentioned previously, the higher your GRE score is, the better are your chances to get admission to some of the top universities. A GRE score of 330 will help you get admission to some top-ranked universities. As such, it is always better to aim high so that there is no need for compromise on your preferred university. Given below is a list of some top US universities that need a GRE score above 330.

• Stanford University
• University of California - Berkeley
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• California Institute of Technology
• University of Texas at Austin
• Princeton University
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• Carnegie Mellon University
• University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign
• Texas A&M University
• Harvard University

GRE Cutoff for Specific Programs

The GRE score cutoff is dependent on the university you are applying to. It can also vary based on your chosen program of study. As such, it is not easy to give the GRE cutoff for programs. However, we have given below the average score range needed for some programs. You should visit the official website of your university to get the exact score you need.

What are the Good GRE Scores for Grad Schools?

The GRE score asked for by grad schools may differ from one another. It can also change based on the course you choose. For instance, courses like Engineering may need a higher GRE score compared to those like Arts and Humanities. You need a GRE score of at least 162 in the verbal section if you have to apply for an MBA. Similarly, your score should be at least 163 if you apply for a graduate Law degree. Before proceeding further, you can refer to the official websites of the universities you are applying to. It will help you get the average score range you may need before you start applying.

Top 5 Universities that Accept GRE Scores

Several top universities ask for a GRE score at the time of admission to their programs. We have compiled a list of the top five universities that accept GRE scores so that you can have them on your priority list.

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Ranked #1 in the QS World University Rankings 2023, MIT asks for a high GRE score. The table below lists the popular programs and the GRE score requirements.

2. Harvard University: 

Harvard University is one of the top universities in the USA that offer courses and programs in almost all disciplines.

3. Stanford University: 

Stanford University is one of the prestigious universities in the USA that asks for a pretty high GRE score.

4. University of California - Berkeley: 

You will find a variety of courses in all streams and disciplines if you choose to study at the University of California - Berkeley.

5. Princeton University: 

Princeton University is the fourth-oldest university in the USA and offers courses in a wide range of disciplines.

What is the GRE Score Range?

It will be helpful for you to get the GRE score range as it will help you devise a study plan and prepare well. The score asked for by universities is different, yet, it will be beneficial to identify the score range.

Best GRE Score Range

Your selection to the university is not totally based on your GRE score. As such, a good GRE score is dependent on your university and the chosen program of study. However, we can, of course, give you the best GRE score range. This will help you have a place in the top 10% of students who take the test.

• GRE Verbal Section: 163-170
• GRE Quantitative Section: 165-170
• GRE Analytical Writing: 5.0-6.0

Competitive GRE Score Range

If you score in the competitive GRE score range, you will belong to the top 25% of students who take the test. This gives you a good chance to get shortlisted for your course.

• GRE Verbal Section: 158-162
• GRE Quantitative Section: 159-164
• GRE Analytical Writing: 4.5

Good GRE Score Range

Having a good GRE score range will give you a 50% chance of getting admitted to your dream university. However, it is always essential to be in the top 10%, so you need not compromise on anything. A good GRE score range is given below.

• GRE Verbal Section: 152-158
• GRE Quantitative Section: 153-158
• GRE Analytical Writing: 4.0

GRE Preparation 2023

If you are preparing to write any test, it is essential to prepare well. The same rule goes with GRE as well. You should first understand the different sections of the test and the minimum score range for each of them. This will help you set a target score for yourself. You should also finalise your preferred way of preparation. If you can study on your own, you can take help from the internet and can attempt model questions as well.

It is not always necessary to study at a coaching centre. It is you who should understand your calibre and devise a study plan accordingly. You can also buy books that help you prepare by yourself. GRE Prep Book: The Official Guide to the GRE General Test is one such book that you can refer to.

By now, you should have got at least a rough idea about the top universities that accept GRE and the average score range for getting admission to these universities. It is essential to prepare well and attempt the exam. GRE is not a very difficult test; you can surely get a high score if you plan and prepare well. If you wish to know in detail about the GRE test, you can visit our page on the same.

If you have any more doubts about the GRE test or anything related to studying abroad, you can contact AECC's expert counsellors. Our trained professionals will help you choose the best. From researching the best universities to visa guidance, we will assist you on every step of the process, free of charge.

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