If you’re planning to pursue a master’s, MBA, or PhD program abroad, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is likely one of the most important steps on your journey. Accepted by thousands of graduate and business schools around the world, the GRE tests your readiness for graduate-level academics by evaluating your critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills.
But here’s the catch: doing well on the GRE isn’t just about practicing questions — it’s about knowing what to expect. That’s where the GRE syllabus comes in. Whether you’re preparing for the GRE General Test or one of the GRE Subject Tests, understanding the exam structure and topics in detail can help you design a more effective prep strategy and avoid unpleasant surprises on test day.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the complete GRE syllabus — for both the General and Subject Tests — and show you exactly what topics you’ll need to cover. We’ll also share examples of question types, tips for preparation, and how to use the syllabus to your advantage.
Let’s start by understanding the difference between the GRE General and Subject Tests.
GRE General Test vs Subject Test
Before diving into the syllabus, it’s important to understand that there are two types of GRE exams:
1. GRE General Test
The GRE General Test is the one most commonly taken by applicants to master’s, MBA, and doctoral programs worldwide. It measures your ability to think critically, analyze and evaluate written material, solve quantitative problems, and articulate complex ideas effectively in writing.
It consists of three main sections:
- Analytical Writing
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
This is the test you’ll most likely be taking unless a program specifically requires a Subject Test.
2. GRE Subject Test
The GRE Subject Tests are designed for students with a strong background in a specific field of study. These tests are required by a few specialized graduate programs to assess your expertise in that subject.
Currently, ETS offers Subject Tests in:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
Unlike the General Test, the Subject Tests focus solely on the subject content and are taken less frequently — only three times a year.
GRE Syllabus 2025 – Section-wise Breakdown
1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
This section tests your ability to articulate complex ideas, construct well-supported arguments, and evaluate written material. You will not need specific subject knowledge, but your critical thinking and clarity of expression are key.
What’s Tested:
- Ability to present a logical and coherent argument
- Clarity in writing and sentence construction
- Proper grammar, structure, and vocabulary
Task Type:
- Analyze an Issue – You’ll be given a statement and asked to evaluate it from multiple perspectives and present your view.
Duration:
- 30 minutes
- 1 task
Sample Question:
“Governments should not fund arts programs when healthcare and education are underfunded.” Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with this statement.
2. Verbal Reasoning
This section evaluates your ability to:
- Understand and analyze written material
- Recognize relationships among words and concepts
- Evaluate arguments
Question Types & Topics:
- Reading Comprehension: Short to medium-length passages with multiple questions
- Text Completion: Fill-in-the-blank style questions with vocabulary and context clues
- Sentence Equivalence: Choose two words that complete a sentence and produce a similar meaning
Structure:
- Section 1: 12 questions | 18 minutes
- Section 2: 15 questions | 23 minutes
- Total: 27 questions | 41 minutes
Key Vocabulary Topics:
- Context-based usage
- Academic and functional vocabulary
- Synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions
Sample Question:
_Select the two answer choices that best complete the sentence:
“Though he was once a leading figure in the movement, his influence has since _____.”
A) intensified
B) dwindled
C) flourished
D) waned
E) disappeared
F) multiplied
Correct Answers: B and D
3. Quantitative Reasoning
This section tests your basic math skills and your ability to reason quantitatively and solve problems using:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Data analysis
Note: Geometry and Data Sufficiency questions have been removed in the latest format.
Topics Covered:
- Number properties
- Fractions, decimals, percentages
- Ratios and proportions
- Algebraic equations
- Word problems and real-life data interpretation
- Statistics (mean, median, mode, range)
- Probability
Structure:
- Section 1: 12 questions | 21 minutes
- Section 2: 15 questions | 26 minutes
- Total: 27 questions | 47 minutes
Sample Question:
If 4x – 3 = 17, what is the value of x?
A) 5
B) 6
C) 4
D) 3
Correct Answer: A (x = 5)
GRE Subject Test Syllabus 2025
The GRE Subject Tests are designed to evaluate your knowledge in a specific field of study and are often required or recommended by graduate programs that focus heavily on a particular discipline.
As of 2025, GRE Subject Tests are offered in the following subjects:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
Each test lasts 2 hours and 50 minutes and is administered in a paper-delivered format (not computer-based). Here’s a breakdown of each:
1. GRE Mathematics Subject Test Syllabus
This test assesses your understanding of undergraduate-level mathematics, primarily from courses taken in calculus and linear algebra.
Key Topics:
| Topic | Approximate Weight |
|---|---|
| Calculus | 50% |
| Algebra (Linear, Abstract, Number Theory) | 25% |
| Additional Topics (Discrete Math, Geometry, Probability, etc.) | 25% |
Sample Topics:
- Limits, continuity, differential equations
- Linear and matrix algebra
- Number theory, group theory
- Combinatorics, graph theory, logic
2. GRE Physics Subject Test Syllabus
This test measures the candidate’s grasp of fundamental physics concepts.
Key Topics:
| Topic | Approximate Weight |
|---|---|
| Classical Mechanics | 20% |
| Electromagnetism | 18% |
| Optics and Wave Phenomena | 9% |
| Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics | 10% |
| Quantum Mechanics | 12% |
| Atomic Physics | 10% |
| Special Relativity | 6% |
| Laboratory Methods | 6% |
| Specialized Topics | 9% |
Sample Topics:
- Newtonian mechanics, oscillations
- Gauss’s law, electric/magnetic fields
- Schrödinger equation, Bohr model
- Thermodynamic cycles
3. GRE Psychology Subject Test Syllabus
This exam tests your knowledge of core areas in psychology, both theoretical and applied.
Key Topics:
| Topic | Approximate Weight |
|---|---|
| Biological Psychology | 17-21% |
| Cognitive Psychology | 17-24% |
| Social Psychology | 12-14% |
| Developmental Psychology | 12-14% |
| Clinical & Abnormal Psychology | 15-19% |
| Measurement, Methodology & Statistics | 15-19% |
Sample Topics:
- Brain structure and function
- Memory, learning theories
- Personality, emotion
- DSM-5 categories
- Experimental design, reliability & validity
How to Use the GRE Syllabus for Preparation
Understanding the GRE syllabus is the first step toward building an efficient and targeted prep strategy. Once you know what’s on the test, you can break your prep down into manageable steps to improve performance in each section.
Step-by-Step: Creating a Study Plan Based on the GRE Syllabus
1. Understand the Exam Structure
- Know what to expect: 3 sections — Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
- Familiarize yourself with the number of questions, time allotted, and types of questions in each section.
2. Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses
- Take a diagnostic test or an official ETS practice test.
- Identify whether you’re stronger in verbal, quant, or writing, and where you need more practice.
3. Set a Target GRE Score
- Based on the average GRE scores required by your target universities and programs.
- Make sure it aligns with your career or academic goals.
4. Break Down the Syllabus into Weekly Goals
Here’s a sample weekly breakdown:
| Week | Focus Area | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Analytical Writing | Practice essays, review AWA rubric |
| 2-3 | Verbal: Reading Comprehension | Solve RC passages, vocabulary drills |
| 4-5 | Verbal: Text Completion + Sentence Equivalence | Practice GRE-style vocab in context |
| 6-7 | Quant: Arithmetic & Algebra | Practice foundational concepts, formulas |
| 8-9 | Quant: Word Problems, Geometry | Focus on data interpretation & tricky problems |
| 10 | Mixed Practice Tests | Full-length mocks + error analysis |
5. Include Timed Practice Sessions
- Mimic real test conditions to improve pacing.
- Use ETS PowerPrep or other official tests for realistic simulation.
6. Revise and Reinforce
- Maintain an error log to track mistakes.
- Review formulas, vocabulary, and concepts weekly.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the GRE starts with a deep understanding of its syllabus. Whether you’re aiming for a top grad school or just want to meet the minimum requirement for your program, aligning your study strategy with the official GRE syllabus ensures that every hour you spend preparing is productive and focused.
Start by familiarizing yourself with what each section tests — from critical thinking in the Analytical Writing, to vocabulary and comprehension in Verbal Reasoning, to math fundamentals in Quantitative Reasoning. Then, create a customized study plan based on your current level and target score.
Use high-quality resources, take mock tests regularly, and most importantly, review your mistakes and adapt. With consistent effort and the right plan, a strong GRE score is within reach.
Looking for more help? Check out our detailed articles on each GRE section, top books to prepare, exam dates, registration process, and more to guide your entire GRE journey.
FAQs on GRE Syllabus
1. What are the main sections in the GRE exam?
The GRE General Test has three main sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Each section evaluates different skills important for graduate-level education.
2. How many questions are there in each GRE section?
- Analytical Writing: 1 essay task
- Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections (12 and 15 questions)
- Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections (12 and 15 questions)
3. Is there a fixed syllabus for GRE preparation?
While the GRE doesn’t have a fixed list of topics, ETS (the test maker) provides a well-defined structure that covers critical thinking, reading comprehension, arithmetic, algebra, and data interpretation.
4. Does the GRE syllabus include vocabulary?
Yes, vocabulary is a key part of the Verbal Reasoning section, especially in Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence questions. Strong vocabulary helps with Reading Comprehension too.
5. Are advanced math topics included in GRE Quant?
No. GRE Quant tests high-school-level math concepts — arithmetic, algebra, and basic geometry. You won’t be tested on calculus, trigonometry, or higher-level math.
6. How is the GRE syllabus different from the GMAT syllabus?
The GRE focuses more on vocabulary and allows a calculator in the Quant section. The GMAT is more logic- and data-heavy. The writing tasks also differ in format and scoring.
7. Is the GRE Subject Test syllabus different?
Yes. The GRE Subject Tests have their own unique syllabi based on the subject (e.g., Physics, Mathematics, Psychology) and are completely different from the General Test.
8. Where can I find official GRE preparation material based on the syllabus?
You can access free and paid resources on the ETS official website, including practice tests, question banks, and prep guides that are aligned with the GRE syllabus.
