Ultimate Guide to GRE for Studying in Germany - MS in Germany

The Graduate Record Examinations, or GRE, is a standardized test used for admission to graduate programs in various universities across the world. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. Students interested in pursuing a master's or doctoral degree often take the GRE.

Ultimate Guide to GRE for Studying in Germany - MS in Germany
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Are you considering studying in Germany? If yes, you might already know about the GRE and its requirements. If you're new to this, don't worry, because MS in Germany is here to help you understand everything you need to know about the GRE. The GRE or Graduate Record Examination is a standardized test that measures your readiness for graduate-level studies in the United States. However, many universities in Germany also accept GRE scores as part of their admission process. Therefore, it's essential to understand the eligibility criteria, exam patterns, and scoring details. This comprehensive guide will assist you throughout the process, from understanding the test to navigating its intricacies. We will provide you with tips and tricks that will help you prepare for the test and achieve a good score. So, let's dive into the world of the GRE and get started!

Is GRE necessary for studying in Germany?

The short answer is that it depends on the university and program you are applying to. While some universities in Germany require the GRE, others do not. It’s important to research the specific requirements of the universities and programs you are interested in to determine if the GRE is necessary for your application.
Even if the GRE is not required, taking the test can still be beneficial. A strong GRE score can help you stand out from other candidates and improve your chances of being accepted into your desired program.

Eligibility:

  • There are no strict eligibility criteria based on educational qualifications or age.
  • Most test-takers are college graduates or soon-to-be graduates.
  • The GRE is commonly required for admission to various graduate programs in different disciplines.
  • MBA programs may also require GRE scores, although some schools accept GMAT scores instead.
  • There is no age limit for taking the GRE; individuals of all ages can register for the test.
  • Test-takers can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times in a continuous rolling 12-month period.
  • GRE scores are typically valid for five years from the test date.
  • It's essential to check with specific schools for their admission requirements and application procedures.

Registration process:

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate and business school programs in various countries, including the United States and Germany. The registration process for the GRE involves several steps, and I will explain them below:
  1. Create an ETS Account: The first step is to create an account on the official website of the Educational Testing Service (ETS) - the organization that administers the GRE. You can create an account by providing your personal information and a valid email address.
  1. Select a Test Date and Location: Once you have created an account, you can log in and choose a suitable test date and location from the available options. GRE is offered year-round at various test centers, so you can select a date that fits your schedule.
  1. Provide Identification Information: During the registration process, you will need to provide identification information, such as your full name, date of birth, and contact details. Make sure the information you provide matches the identification you will bring on the test day.
  1. Choose Score Recipients: After selecting the test date, you can choose up to four graduate or business schools to receive your GRE scores. You can send your scores to these institutions for free as part of the registration process. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.
  1. Payment: The registration process requires payment of the test fee. The GRE test fee varies by country, and additional fees may apply for services like rescheduling or sending additional score reports. Payment can be made using credit/debit cards, PayPal, or an ETS voucher.
  1. Confirmation and Admission Ticket: Once you have completed the registration process and payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and location. You can also access your admission ticket through your ETS account, which includes important information for test day.

GRE Test Format

The GRE is a computer-based test that measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The test consists of six sections, including one unscored research section and one unscored or scored experimental section. The research and experimental sections are used to test new questions and do not count towards your final score.
The test is adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on your performance. If you answer a question correctly, the next question will be slightly more difficult. If you answer a question incorrectly, the next question will be slightly easier.
The verbal reasoning section measures your ability to analyze and evaluate written material, synthesize information, and recognize relationships among parts of sentences and among words and concepts. The quantitative reasoning section measures your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information, solve problems using mathematical concepts, and apply basic mathematical skills and elementary mathematical concepts. The analytical writing section measures your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support your ideas with relevant reasons and examples, and examine claims and accompanying evidence.
Section
Number of Questions
Time Allotted
Verbal Reasoning
20 per section (2 sections)
30 minutes per section
Quantitative Reasoning
20 per section (2 sections)
35 minutes per section
Analytical Writing
1 task per section (2 sections)
30 minutes per task
Unscored Research Section
Varies
Varies
Unscored/Sampled Experimental Section
Varies
Varies

GRE Scoring:

  • The GRE consists of three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
  • Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments.
  • Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130 to 170 in one-point increments.
  • The scores for each section are reported separately, and there is no overall composite score.

GRE Question Paper Pattern:

Analytical Writing Section:

  • 1 essay task - Analyze an Issue.
  • 1 essay task - Analyze an Argument.
  • Time: 30 minutes per task.

Verbal Reasoning Section:

  • Two sections with 20 questions each.
  • Multiple-choice questions - Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence, and Reading Comprehension.
  • Time: 30 minutes per section.

Quantitative Reasoning Section:

  • Two sections with 20 questions each.
  • Multiple-choice questions - Quantitative Comparison, Problem Solving, and Data Interpretation.
  • Time: 35 minutes per section.

Unscored Section:

  • An additional section (Verbal or Quantitative Reasoning) that does not count towards the final score.
  • Used for research purposes and is not identified to test-takers.

Research Section:

  • An additional section (Verbal or Quantitative Reasoning) used for ETS research purposes.
  • Not scored and not identified to test-takers.

Total Test Time:

  • Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including breaks and other administrative tasks.

Adaptive Format:

  • The Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are computer-adaptive.
  • The first section of each (Verbal and Quantitative) is of average difficulty.
  • Subsequent sections are chosen based on the test-taker's performance in the first section.
  • Questions get harder if you answer correctly and easier if you answer incorrectly.

Score Availability:

  • Unofficial Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning scores are available immediately after the test.
  • Official scores are available on the ETS website 10-15 days after the test date.
  • Analytical Writing scores are available within 10-15 days after the test date.

GRE Preparation

Preparing for the GRE can be daunting, but there are many resources available to help you succeed. Practice tests, study guides, and online courses can all be valuable tools for preparing for the test.
When studying for the GRE, it’s important to focus on your weaknesses and develop a study plan that works for you. Some students may benefit from a structured study program, while others may prefer to study independently. It’s also important to give yourself enough time to prepare for the test, as cramming at the last minute is unlikely to yield positive results.
At MS in Germany, we offer personalized GRE preparation services to help you achieve your best possible score on the test. Our experienced tutors can work with you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, develop a customized study plan, and provide ongoing support and guidance throughout the preparation process.

GRE Timeline

If you’re planning to study in Germany, it’s important to take the GRE at the right time to ensure that your scores are available when you apply to universities. The GRE is offered year-round, but it’s important to check the specific test dates and registration deadlines for the testing center you plan to use.
Most universities in Germany require that GRE scores be submitted by the application deadline, which is typically several months before the start of the academic year. We recommend taking the GRE at least six months before your intended start date to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and submit your scores.

GRE Cost

The cost of taking the GRE varies depending on your location and the testing center you choose. In the US, the cost of the GRE General Test is $205, while the cost of the GRE Subject Test is $150. Additional fees may apply for late registration, rescheduling, or other services.
Preparing for the GRE can also be costly, as study materials and courses can add up quickly. However, there are many free and low-cost resources available online, and some universities offer GRE preparation courses for their students.

GRE Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you succeed on the GRE:
  • Start preparing early to give yourself enough time to study and practice.
  • Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and identify areas for improvement.
  • Focus on your weaknesses, but don’t neglect your strengths.
  • Use a variety of study materials, including books, online courses, and flashcards.
  • Develop a study plan that works for you, whether that means studying alone or with a tutor.
  • Take care of yourself physically and mentally during the preparation process, as stress and burnout can negatively impact your performance on the test.

Top GRE Test Centers in India

Test Center Name
Location
Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd
Bangalore
Pearson Professional Centers
Mumbai
Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd
Hyderabad
Pearson Professional Centers
New Delhi
Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd
Chennai

Conclusion

Preparing for the GRE can be difficult, but it is an essential step towards achieving your academic goals, particularly if you plan to study in Germany. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test for your analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills. It is used by many universities in Germany as part of their admission requirements. Therefore, preparing well for the exam is crucial to increase your chances of being accepted into your desired program.

FAQs

Do all universities in Germany require the GRE?
No, not all universities in Germany require the GRE. It's essential to research the specific requirements of the universities and programs you are interested in to determine if the GRE is necessary for your application.
What is the format of the GRE test?
The test consists of six sections, including one unscored research section and one unscored or scored experimental section.
How should I prepare for the GRE?
Preparing for the GRE can be daunting, but many resources are available to help you succeed. Practice tests, study guides, and online courses can all be valuable tools for preparing for the test. When studying for the GRE, you must focus on your weaknesses and develop a plan that works for you.
When should I take the GRE if I want to study in Germany?
Most universities in Germany require that GRE scores be submitted by the application deadline, which is typically several months before the start of the academic year. We recommend taking the GRE at least six months before your intended start date to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and submit your scores.
How much does it cost to take the GRE?
The cost of taking the GRE varies depending on your location. In the US, the cost of the GRE General Test is $205, while the cost of the GRE Subject Test is $150. Additional fees may apply for late registration, rescheduling, or other services.
What are some tips for succeeding in the GRE?
Some tips for succeeding on the GRE include starting early, taking practice tests, focusing on your weaknesses, using various study materials, and developing a study plan that works for you. It's also essential to take care of yourself physically and mentally during the preparation process, as stress and burnout can negatively impact your performance on the test.
What are the top GRE test centres in India?

Some of India's top GRE test centres include Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd in Bangalore and Hyderabad, Pearson Professional Centers in Mumbai and New Delhi, and others. However, this table is incomplete, and other test centres may be available in India. It's essential to check the specific test centre locations and availability when registering for the GRE.

 

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MS in Germany
MS in Germany

Your trusted consultancy for pursuing higher education in top German Public Universities.