Students considering applying to a graduate school program must first score well on the GRE. As the competition for these limited spots continues to rise, college students and recent graduates living in the nearby Boulder and Denver area need a structured GRE test prep plan to reach their full potential. After opening our doors in 2006, Mindfish quickly became the top-choice GRE tutoring center for Colorado undergraduates because of our advanced online learning services. Mindfish can help graduate applicants adhere to a strict test prep timeline and adequately prepare for the GRE test to improve their admissions chances. Through one-on-one virtual tutoring, you can receive unmatched GRE academic tutoring anywhere, anytime.
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What is the GRE?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a 3-part standardized test created by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Admission officers for graduate programs across the country rely on GRE scores to sort and identify the strongest graduate candidates. The GRE – a computer-delivered exam – consists of five distinct sections: one analytical writing assessment section, two verbal reasoning sections, and two quantitative reasoning sections. Test-takers typically receive a score between 130 and 170 on the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections and a 0 through 6 on the Written portion. Although each section varies in length, the GRE takes about 4 hours to complete. The average GRE score is 150 for the Verbal section and 153 for the Math section, with 3.5 as the average score for the Analytical Writing section. The max or perfect GRE score is 340 (combined scores range from 260-340).
Utilizing a GRE prep course with an experienced instructor is the optimal solution for applicants looking to raise GRE scores and enhance test-taking techniques. Mindfish’s GRE tutoring program has effectively met each graduate-bound student’s unique needs and learning style.
What is a Good GRE Score?
The GRE is just one of many different factors that encompass a graduate school application. Graduate admissions officers also review other factors such as GPA, compelling personal statements, strong letters of recommendation, portfolios, and in-person interviews. While most graduate programs encourage applicants to submit GRE scores, some schools waive the GRE requirement. Regardless, Graduate applicants should still take the GRE because a higher score can boost the quality of their application and improve financial aid and graduate assistant opportunities.
Some graduate programs focus more on Quantitative section scores while other schools lock in on an applicant’s Verbal section score. A “good” competitive GRE ranges between 158-162 for the Verbal section, 159-164 for the Quantitative section, and 4.5 or above for the Writing section.
Earning these types of strong GRE scores will put applicants in the top 25th percentile of all GRE test takers. Thus, undergraduate students and recent graduates should strive to score at least a 325 on the GRE, as this should place their application on the admission officer’s “under consideration” pile.