GRE Test Format & Structure
Everything you need to know about how the GRE is structured — sections, timing, question types, and logistics — from TestCrackers' 99th-percentile instructors.
What is the format of the GRE?
The GRE has five sections: one Analytical Writing essay (30 minutes), two Verbal Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions), and two Quantitative Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions). That's 54 questions (mostly multiple choice) plus one essay, and the whole test takes just under two hours. The test is section-adaptive, meaning your performance on the first Verbal and Quant sections determines the difficulty of your second sections.
What is the GRE test structure for 2025/2026?
The GRE has five sections: one Analytical Writing essay (30 minutes), two Verbal Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions), and two Quantitative Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions). That's 54 questions (mostly multiple choice) plus one essay, and the whole test takes just under two hours. The test is section-adaptive, meaning your performance on the first Verbal and Quant sections determines the difficulty of your second sections.
How long is the GRE? / How long does the GRE take?
The current GRE takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes from start to finish with no scheduled breaks. That's roughly half the length of the old format, which ran nearly four hours, and just over 15 minutes shorter than the GMAT.
How many questions are on the GRE?
The GRE has five sections: one Analytical Writing essay (30 minutes), two Verbal Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions), and two Quantitative Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions). That's 54 questions (mostly multiple choice) plus one essay, and the whole test takes just under two hours. The test is section-adaptive, meaning your performance on the first Verbal and Quant sections determines the difficulty of your second sections.
How many sections are on the GRE?
The GRE has five sections: one Analytical Writing essay (30 minutes), two Verbal Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions), and two Quantitative Reasoning sections (12 and 15 questions). That's 54 questions (mostly multiple choice) plus one essay, and the whole test takes just under two hours. The test is section-adaptive, meaning your performance on the first Verbal and Quant sections determines the difficulty of your second sections.
Is the GRE computer-based or paper-based?
Computer-based only. There is no paper option for the GRE General Test. You take it on a computer, either at a Prometric test center or at home through ProctorU.
Is there scratch paper / a whiteboard on the GRE?
At test centers, staff provide scratch paper and pencils. You can ask for more paper during the test, but you have to turn in used pages first.
For the at-home GRE, you have two options: a small dry-erase whiteboard or a sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector, either with an erasable marker. The sheet protector is the better choice since it feels closer to writing on paper.
Is there a break between sections?
No. With standard timing, the current GRE has no scheduled break. The whole test runs continuously for about 1 hour and 58 minutes. If you have approved testing accommodations, you may be entitled to additional breaks.
Is there an experimental/unscored section on the GRE?
No. The old GRE had an unscored experimental section, but it was removed when the shorter GRE launched in September 2023. Every question on the current GRE counts toward your score.
What is the GRE General Test vs. GRE Subject Test?
The GRE General Test is what most people mean when they say "the GRE." It's used by a wide range of master's programs, many PhD programs, and many JD programs, and it measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The GRE Subject Tests are separate exams in specific fields (such as Math, Physics, or Psychology) that some graduate programs require in addition to or instead of the General Test. Check what your target programs require, and check the ETS website for which Subject Tests are currently offered, as availability has changed in recent years.
What is the GRE used for?
The GRE is used for admissions to graduate programs (master's and PhD), many MBA programs, and a growing number of law schools. Your scores are sent to the schools you choose as part of your application. Some programs also use GRE scores for fellowship and funding decisions. It's the most widely accepted graduate admissions test in the world.
How do I register for the GRE?
Create an ETS account at ets.org, then register for the GRE General Test through your account. You'll choose between a test center or at-home option, pick a date and location, and pay the registration fee. The whole process takes about 15 minutes online.
Is the GRE accepted in Germany / other countries?
Yes, the GRE is accepted by thousands of graduate programs worldwide, including many in Germany, the UK, Canada, Australia, and other countries. Acceptance varies by program, so always check with the specific schools you're applying to. The trend has been toward broader international acceptance in recent years.
What is the GRE Information Bulletin?
The GRE Information Bulletin is a free PDF published by ETS that covers everything about the test: format, content, registration procedures, test day policies, scoring, and score reporting. It's the official reference document straight from the test maker. You can download it from ets.org. It's worth skimming before test day so there are no surprises.
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