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Debunking the myths about the GRE and acknowledging the facts will give GRE aspirants clarity and help in better test preparation.

So, let’s get rolling and bust some myths about GRE.

Myth 1. Retaking the GRE could affect your chances of getting accepted

Retaking the GRE won’t hamper your chances. ETS’s ‘Score select’ option allows you to select your best score for the university of your choice; it doesn’t matter if it’s your first attempt or re-attempt score. The only constraint imposed is you can only take the GRE once every 21 days up to 5 Test attempts in a continuous rolling period of 12 months or 365 days. Retaking the GRE to apply with a better score will not affect your admission chances.

Myth 2. GRE gives a composite score, and students could choose between sectional scores to send

Every section on the test must be taken carefully – as they all hold equal importance. The score sent to the university has to be your best test score of any attempt. No mix and match of quant, verbal, and analytical writing scores from separate testing sessions are allowed. The GRE Quant section is scored on a scale of 130 to 170 points with a 1-point increment, and the same goes for the GRE Verbal Section. The GRE Analytical Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6, with an increment of 0.5. So, each Test section needs proper focus.

Myth 3. Everyone gets the same unscored section

4 scored math and verbal sections (2 each) in the GRE. A fifth section, the unscored section, is also included in most tests. The unscored or experimental Test section ensures that every test question is valid before impacting a test taker’s score. Every scored question you get was once part of someone else’s experimental section.

Unscored sections are not included in most mock tests, so they can be exhausting when you get them on exam day. At Jamboree, we offer full-length mock tests, including unscored sections, to give you a GRE-like experience.

Myth 4. Great vocabulary implies a good verbal GRE score

An adequate vocabulary is good for the GRE verbal section, but it does not indicate a great GRE score. It goes without saying that preparation and practice to enhance GRE-specific vocabulary are crucial.

Note: The GRE is a reasoning exam that tests students’ analytical thinking abilities. It is not a verbal or vocabulary ability test.

Know more about GRE Preparation with Jamboree

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Myth 5. Only good writers can ace the GRE AWA section

The Analytical writing assessment section has two tasks: analyzing an issue and analyzing an argument. AWA section measures analytical skills and critical thinking, including articulating and supporting complex ideas, sustaining a focused and coherent discussion, and constructing and evaluating statements.

Note: AWA section is the only section in the GRE where universities often impose a cut-off of 3.5/4.

Myth 6. GRE preparation demands umpteen time

The resources you follow and regular practice matter greatly in GRE test prep. However, a dedicated and well-planned preparation of about 3 months is good enough to get a good score if planned well.

At Jamboree, we offer GRE prep via classroom training, live classes, online coaching, and private tutoring. We encourage our students to take up the program that suits their requirements, profile, and targeted universities.

Myth 7. More practice tests imply better score

The key motive of the practice tests is to enhance your knowledge and achieve gradual progress. Students need to adapt to concepts and get better with each practice set.

DO NOT FORGET

When some of the most common GRE myths are busted, we must stay true to the facts and not forget some essential facts about GRE.

  1. The GRE Quantitative and the Verbal section are section-wise adaptive instead of question-wise.
  2. In the GRE general test, the first section will always be the Analytical Writing section. You will also get an unidentified research section that does not add to your score. This section is included for ETS research purposes.

GRE is an essential part of the graduate admission process. Being aware of GRE scores and the other admission application requirements is vital. Jamboree is here to guide you through each step towards securing excellent scores and getting accepted into the university of your choice.

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