If you’re planning to apply to graduate, business, or law school, chances are you’ll need to take the GRE General Test. Accepted by thousands of programs around the world, the GRE is a widely recognized standardized exam that measures your readiness for advanced academic study.
But before you dive into prep books and practice tests, it’s crucial to understand the GRE exam pattern. Knowing the structure, sections, and timing of the test will help you create a more effective study plan and avoid surprises on test day.
In 2023, the GRE got a major update—the test duration was shortened, and the unscored and research sections were removed. Now, the GRE is more streamlined while continuing to test the same critical skills in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the GRE exam structure, section by section, and break down everything you need to know about the timing, question types, format (online vs test center), and scoring. Whether you’re just starting or already deep into prep, this guide will help you make sense of the new GRE pattern and how to ace it.
GRE Exam Structure at a Glance
The GRE General Test is now shorter and more focused, making it easier to manage on test day. The exam is divided into three main sections that test your reasoning, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Here’s an overview of the latest GRE exam pattern.
GRE Exam Pattern (Updated)
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 Task | 30 minutes | Analyze an Issue |
| Verbal Reasoning | Section 1: 12 questions Section 2: 15 questions | Section 1: 18 minutes Section 2: 23 minutes | Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Section 1: 12 questions Section 2: 15 questions | Section 1: 21 minutes Section 2: 26 minutes | Arithmetic, Algebra, Data Analysis, Geometry |
| Total Test Time | – | ~1 hour 58 minutes | – |
Note: There is a 10-minute optional break after the second section.
This compact structure helps you focus more sharply on performance without fatigue, especially with no experimental or unscored sections in the revised test.
Detailed Breakdown of GRE Sections
Let’s dive deeper into each section of the GRE to understand what’s tested, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Analytical Writing (AWA)
- Number of Tasks: 1
- Task Type: Analyze an Issue
- Allotted Time: 30 minutes
The AWA section measures your ability to:
- Formulate a clear and logical position on a given issue
- Support your argument with relevant reasons and examples
- Structure your thoughts in a coherent and concise manner
You are expected to take a stance on a given topic and write a persuasive essay showcasing your analytical thinking and writing skills.
Tip: Practice outlining your thoughts before you begin writing. Focus on clarity, logical flow, and supporting evidence.
2. Verbal Reasoning
- Number of Sections: 2
- Section 1: 12 questions – 18 minutes
- Section 2: 15 questions – 23 minutes
- Total Time: 41 minutes
- Total Questions: 27
Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension: Analyze and draw conclusions from passages.
- Text Completion: Fill in the blanks to form meaningful sentences.
- Sentence Equivalence: Choose two words that complete a sentence with similar meaning.
This section assesses your ability to understand written material, reason with it, and evaluate the author’s arguments and tone.
Tip: Focus on practicing with high-level academic passages. GRE vocabulary still plays a key role in success here.
Quantitative Reasoning
- Number of Sections: 2
- Section 1: 12 questions – 21 minutes
- Section 2: 15 questions – 26 minutes
- Total Time: 47 minutes
- Total Questions: 27
Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Data Analysis
- Geometry (limited)
Question Types:
- Quantitative Comparison
- Multiple-choice – single and multiple answers
- Numeric Entry
This section evaluates your problem-solving abilities using basic math concepts and your ability to interpret quantitative data.
Tip: Brush up on foundational math skills and get comfortable using the on-screen calculator for efficiency.
GRE Scoring Pattern: How is the GRE Scored?
The GRE General Test is scored differently for each section. Here’s how your performance is evaluated and reported:
| Section | Score Range | Score Increments | What It Reflects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 0 – 6 | 0.5-point increments | Quality of your written argument, coherence, and command of language |
| Verbal Reasoning | 130 – 170 | 1-point increments | Ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate written content |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 130 – 170 | 1-point increments | Quantitative problem-solving and reasoning skills |
| Total Score | 260 – 340 | — | Combined total of Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning scores (AWA scored separately) |
Note: There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it’s always best to attempt every question.
GRE Exam Duration and Structure
The GRE General Test has been shortened and streamlined to better evaluate your skills in a shorter timeframe. The total exam duration is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes.
Here’s a breakdown of each section’s duration, number of questions, and order:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 “Analyze an Issue” Task | 30 minutes | Always first |
| Verbal Reasoning | Section 1: 12 Questions Section 2: 15 Questions | Section 1: 18 minutes Section 2: 23 minutes | Second and Fourth |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Section 1: 12 Questions Section 2: 15 Questions | Section 1: 21 minutes Section 2: 26 minutes | Third and Fifth |
| Total Duration | — | 1 hour 58 minutes | — |
Test Order and Flow
- Analytical Writing always comes first and is not adaptive.
- The Verbal and Quant sections are section-level adaptive:
- The difficulty of Section 2 (Verbal/Quant) depends on your performance in Section 1.
- There are no unscored or experimental sections in the new GRE format.
- There is no break between sections — it’s a continuous test.
Summary of Key Format Changes
| Feature | Old GRE | New GRE (Since Sept 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Duration | ~3 hours 45 minutes | ~1 hour 58 minutes |
| Analytical Writing Tasks | 2 tasks | 1 task |
| Unscored/Research Section | Yes | No |
| Number of Questions | ~80+ | 54 |
| Adaptive Format | Section-wise adaptive | Section-wise adaptive |
GRE Subject Test Exam Pattern
The GRE Subject Tests are specialized exams designed to test your knowledge in a particular field. These tests are primarily required for graduate programs in the United States and some other countries—especially for STEM or research-focused disciplines.
Currently Available GRE Subject Tests
As of 2025, ETS offers Subject Tests in the following fields:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
GRE Subject Test Structure and Duration
Each GRE Subject Test follows a paper-delivered format (not computer-based) and has the same duration.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Test Duration | Format | Offered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | ~66 | 2 hours 50 minutes | Multiple Choice | 3 times a year (Sept, Oct, Apr) |
| Physics | ~100 | 2 hours 50 minutes | Multiple Choice | 3 times a year (Sept, Oct, Apr) |
| Psychology | ~205 | 2 hours 50 minutes | Multiple Choice | 3 times a year (Sept, Oct, Apr) |
All questions are multiple-choice with five answer choices per question.
GRE Subject Test Scoring Pattern
- Scores range from 200 to 990, in 10-point increments.
- Each subject test has its own scoring curve and percentile ranks.
- Some tests also report subscores, like:
- Psychology: Experimental, Social, Clinical, Cognitive, etc.
- Mathematics: Algebra, Calculus, Additional topics
| Score Scale | 200–990 (in 10-point increments) |
|---|---|
| Subscores (if any) | 20–99 |
| Reported Percentiles | Yes (varies by subject and test date) |
Sample Subject Test Structure (Mathematics)
- Algebra (25%): Linear algebra, abstract algebra
- Calculus (50%): Differential, integral, sequences, series
- Additional Topics (25%): Real analysis, number theory, topology, etc.
What Makes GRE Subject Tests Different?
| Feature | GRE General Test | GRE Subject Test |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Measures general aptitude | Tests subject-specific knowledge |
| Format | Computer-based | Paper-based |
| Duration | ~1 hour 58 minutes | 2 hours 50 minutes |
| Sections | Verbal, Quant, Writing | Only one subject-specific section |
| Availability | Year-round | 3 times a year (fixed dates) |
Final Thoughts: GRE Exam Pattern
Understanding the GRE exam pattern is your first step toward building a smart and effective test strategy. Whether you’re targeting top graduate programs in the U.S. or abroad, knowing how the GRE is structured—section-wise timing, question formats, and scoring—can give you a significant edge.
Keep in mind:
- The Analytical Writing section assesses how clearly and persuasively you can express complex ideas.
- The Verbal and Quantitative sections are each split into two timed parts that test logic, comprehension, and numerical reasoning.
- The scoring scale and adaptive nature of the GRE mean that your performance in the first section can impact the difficulty of the next.
Take timed mock tests, analyze your weak areas, and build a study plan that aligns with your target score and program requirements. With the right preparation, the GRE becomes not just manageable—but conquerable.
And if you’re considering a specific field of study, don’t forget to check if a GRE Subject Test is recommended or required by your target university.
FAQs on GRE Exam Pattern
1. What is the format of the GRE General Test?
The GRE General Test has three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Verbal and Quant are each split into two timed parts. The test is section-level adaptive and takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete.
2. How many questions are there in each section of the GRE?
- Analytical Writing: 1 essay (30 minutes)
- Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections – 12 and 15 questions
- Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections – 12 and 15 questions
3. Is the GRE a computer-adaptive test?
Yes. The GRE is section-level adaptive. Your performance in the first Verbal or Quant section influences the difficulty of the second section.
4. What is the total duration of the GRE?
The GRE General Test lasts 1 hour and 58 minutes, including one Analytical Writing task, two Verbal sections, and two Quant sections.
5. Is there a break during the GRE?
No. There are no scheduled breaks in the new shorter GRE format. You must manage your time wisely throughout the test.
6. What is the scoring pattern of the GRE?
- Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning are scored from 130–170 in 1-point increments.
- Analytical Writing is scored on a 0–6 scale in half-point increments.
7. What is the pattern of the GRE Subject Test?
GRE Subject Tests are paper-based exams focused on specific subjects like Physics, Psychology, or Math. Each test is multiple choice and lasts about 2 hours and 50 minutes.
8. How is the GRE different from GMAT in terms of format?
The GRE includes an Analytical Writing section, while the GMAT has a Data Insights section. The GRE is also more flexible in question navigation and widely accepted for a range of graduate programs, not just business schools.
