GRE Score Calculator
Estimate your GRE score based on your performance in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections.
Your Estimated GRE Results
Comprehensive Guide to GRE Score Calculation and Interpretation
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for most graduate schools in the United States and Canada. The GRE is owned and administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS) and was established in 1936. The exam aims to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills that have been acquired over a long period of time and that are not related to any specific field of study.
Understanding the GRE Scoring System
The GRE consists of three main sections, each scored differently:
- Verbal Reasoning – Scored on a scale of 130-170 in 1-point increments
- Quantitative Reasoning – Scored on a scale of 130-170 in 1-point increments
- Analytical Writing – Scored on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments
The Verbal and Quantitative sections are computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the second section depends on your performance in the first section. This adaptive nature makes precise score prediction challenging without understanding the test’s algorithm.
How GRE Scores Are Calculated
The raw score (number of correct answers) is converted to a scaled score through a process called equating. This accounts for minor variations in difficulty between different test versions. Here’s how the conversion generally works:
| Raw Score (Verbal/Quant) | Approximate Scaled Score | Percentile Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| 40 | 170 | 99% |
| 35 | 165 | 96% |
| 30 | 160 | 85% |
| 25 | 155 | 66% |
| 20 | 150 | 42% |
Note: These are approximate conversions. The actual conversion may vary slightly between test administrations.
GRE Score Percentiles
Percentile rankings indicate what percentage of test-takers scored below you. For example, a 90th percentile score means you scored better than 90% of test-takers. Here are the most recent percentile rankings from ETS:
| Scaled Score | Verbal Percentile | Quant Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| 170 | 99% | 97% |
| 165 | 96% | 90% |
| 160 | 85% | 78% |
| 155 | 66% | 61% |
| 150 | 42% | 37% |
Source: ETS GRE Percentile Rankings (2023)
How Graduate Schools Use GRE Scores
Different programs weigh GRE scores differently in their admissions process. Here’s a general breakdown:
- STEM Programs – Typically emphasize Quantitative scores more heavily
- Humanities Programs – Usually focus more on Verbal and Writing scores
- Business Schools – Often consider all sections but may prioritize Quantitative
- Social Sciences – Generally look for balanced scores across all sections
Many top programs publish average GRE scores for admitted students. For example:
- Harvard University (PhD programs): Average Verbal 163, Quant 165
- MIT (Engineering): Average Quant 167, Verbal 158
- Stanford (Education): Average Verbal 162, Quant 159
Strategies for Improving Your GRE Score
If your estimated score isn’t where you want it to be, consider these evidence-based strategies:
- Diagnostic Test – Take a full-length practice test to identify weak areas
- Targeted Study – Focus on your weakest sections (e.g., vocabulary for Verbal, algebra for Quant)
- Time Management – Practice with strict timing to build pacing skills
- Official Materials – Use ETS’s official practice questions and PowerPrep tests
- Review Mistakes – Keep an error log to track and learn from mistakes
- Test-Day Strategy – Learn when to guess and when to spend extra time
GRE Score Validity and Retake Policy
GRE scores are valid for 5 years from your test date. You can retake the GRE every 21 days, up to 5 times within any continuous rolling 12-month period. This includes tests that were canceled (scores not reported).
When considering a retake, ask yourself:
- Is my current score within the range of my target programs?
- Do I have time to prepare adequately for a retake?
- Will a higher score significantly improve my chances?
- Can I afford the $205 test fee again?
Alternative Tests and Waivers
Some programs accept alternative tests or offer GRE waivers:
- GMAT – Often accepted for business programs instead of GRE
- LSAT – Required for law school (though some JD/PhD programs accept GRE)
- MCAT – Required for medical school
- Test-Optional Programs – Some schools have dropped GRE requirements entirely
According to a 2023 survey by the Council of Graduate Schools, about 38% of master’s programs and 22% of doctoral programs no longer require GRE scores for admission, up from 10% and 6% respectively in 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRE Scores
Q: How long does it take to get GRE scores?
A: Official scores are available in your ETS account approximately 10-15 days after your test date.
Q: Can I cancel my GRE scores?
A: Yes, you can cancel your scores at the test center immediately after taking the test, but you must decide before viewing your scores.
Q: How are GRE scores sent to schools?
A: On test day, you can select up to 4 institutions to receive your scores for free. Additional score reports cost $27 each.
Q: What’s a good GRE score?
A: A “good” score depends on your target programs. For most programs, scores above the 75th percentile (Verbal 158+, Quant 160+) are considered competitive.
Q: How does the GRE compare to other standardized tests?
A: The GRE is generally considered more challenging than the SAT but less specialized than tests like the MCAT or LSAT. Its adaptive format makes it unique among graduate admissions tests.