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Guide on GRE Scoring and How GRE Scores are Calculated

Guide on GRE Scoring and How GRE Scores are Calculated

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Learn how GRE scores are calculated, including scoring for Verbal, Quant, and Writing sections. Understand score validity, reporting, and tips to improve.

GyanDhan
Diwakar Kumar Singh
Updated on:  01 May 2025 | 24.6K | 7  min read

In this article, we will understand how GRE scores are calculated and how it can help you improve your preparation. We will start by breaking down the scoring process and important information related to GRE scores:

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Section-wise GRE Scoring

As we know, the GRE has 3 sections. Let us see the score range for each section from the table below:

Section Score Range

Verbal Reasoning

130 - 170

Quantitative Reasoning

130 - 170

Analytical Writing

0 - 6

Important Points To Note:

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    Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are scored in one-point increments.
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    Analytical Writing is scored in half-point increments.
 

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How is Each Section Scored?

Raw scores are converted to scaled scores. Let us see how it is done in all three 3 sections.

For Quantitative and Reasoning Sections:

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    Your raw score is equal to the number of questions answered correctly.
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    There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
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    The raw score is then converted to a scaled score using a process called "equating”.
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    Different test editions are different in difficulty, however, the difference is not that much.
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    Equating adjusts the scores based on test difficulty, thus making the scoring process transparent.

For Analytical Writing:

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    Analytical writing involves essay writing based on situational analysis.
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    Each essay is scored by at least one trained human rater.
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    An e-rater (a computerised scoring engine) also reviews the essay.
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    If the human rater and e-rater scores are similar, then the average is taken.
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    If the difference is large, then another human rater is involved.
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    The two task scores are then averaged to get the final Analytical Writing score.

Watch this video to learn more about the GRE scores:

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GRE Score Reporting

After the raw scores are converted to scaled scores, GRE score reporting is done. ETS provides:

 

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    The official score report is sent to you and selected institutions.
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    Unofficial Scores for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning are also available immediately after the test.

ScoreSelect Option:

The ScoreSelect option in the GRE allows you to choose which GRE score you want to send to your target institution. The score can be from any test date within the last 5 years. This helps you in giving control over which scores are reported, so that you can show your best performance.

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GRE Score Validity

GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.

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Important Features of the GRE Exam and Scores

Following are some of the important features of GRE exam, you must be aware of:.

Test Retake Policy:

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    You can take the GRE once every 21 days.
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    You can take the test 5 times within any continuous 12-month period.

Score Review Request:

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    Analytical Writing scores can be reviewed if requested within 60 days.
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    A re-evaluation fee applies.

Free Tools and Services:

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    GRE Diagnostic Service: You can understand your performance in the verbal and quantitative sections using this tool.
 
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    ScoreItNow!: You can practice analytical writing using this tool.
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Tips for Improving Your GRE Score

You can improve your GRE score by sticking to the following rules:

 

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    Practice regularly with timed conditions and give as many mock tests as possible.
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    Analyse mistakes and learn from them.
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    Work on writing skills for essays.
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    Do not get stuck on one question for long. You can always come back to re-attempt that question if time allows.
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GyanDhan Scholarship: Extra Help for Students

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Understanding how GRE scores are calculated is very important for effective preparation. You must be well aware of the scoring system, test structure, and available resources that can help you plan smartly and effectively. Focus on practising regularly, analysing your mistakes, and giving as many mocks as you can.

 

SOP review

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is the GRE Verbal score calculated?
 

Your Verbal score is based on the number of correct answers. It is then scaled to adjust for the difficulty level of the test edition.

Is there negative marking in GRE?
 

No, there is no negative marking for wrong answers.

Can I view my GRE scores immediately after the test?
 

Yes, unofficial Verbal and Quantitative scores are available immediately after completing the test.

How long are GRE scores valid?
 

GRE scores are valid for five years from the test date.

Can I choose which GRE scores to send to universities?
 

Yes, using the ScoreSelect option, you can decide which scores to send.

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