When you apply to graduate schools, there are generally two parts to the application process. First, you must get accepted to the college or university. If the college or university accepts you, then your application gets sent to the department for review. During both stages of this process, your graduate record examination scores might be used to help determine your candidacy. There are times when some candidates may have trouble passing the test. If this is the case, using a GRE Tutor in NYC might be beneficial to ensure proper placement into the college of your choice. In general, if you meet the minimum requires for acceptance to the college or university, the school will preliminarily approve your application and send it to the graduate college.
The GRE and Scoring
There is a general graduate record examination test and individual subject tests that you may have to take to get into graduate school. The general test checks your verbal, analytical and quantitative reasoning skills and doesn’t require any previous knowledge. Ideally, the test is designed to predict your ability to participate in graduate level work. The scores as of 2011 are provided on a scale between 130 to 170 on the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. The Analytical Writing section is given a score from 0 to 6. The higher the score, the better your chances of getting into the graduate school of your choice. Additionally, field-specific subject tests are also available and may be required by your department. These tests are designed to test your knowledge of a specific area.
The Purpose of Testing
Graduate schools use testing to quickly weed through a large pile of applicants. While the general tests are based in large part on your accumulated knowledge, it is possible to study to improve your scores. Use the practice tests available from the Educational Testing Service website to help improve your scores and get practice taking the test. The format generally stays the same, and students can improve their chances of getting a high score by becoming familiar with the types of questions. Other ways to improve scores includes studying vocabulary and participating in courses designed to prep you for the test.
Acceptance to the College or University
The main school might require you to have a base score in Verbal, Analytical and Quantitative Reasoning. This minimum score might not be enough to get you into the individual graduate school where you’re seeking admission. However, if it’s enough to get you into the main school, your application will be sent on for further review and scrutiny by your intended graduate school. The main college typically only asks students to submit their general scores, and doesn’t require you to submit individual subject tests. Each school has separate individual requirements, and some schools don’t require the test for admission. Check with the school for the specific requirements.
Acceptance to the Graduate College
Once you meet the minimum requirements for entrance to the university, your application is sent on to the graduate department. At this point, faculty look at all of your admission materials and check your individual GRE scores. Most schools publish minimum requirements, but getting a higher score increases your chances of getting accepted. Generally, the graduate school won’t consider all three scores on the general test. For example, a music department might only want to see your verbal scores. Some departments may require you to take a subject test to show that you have the knowledge required to participate successfully.
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