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The University of South Carolina offers more than 240 graduate degree and certificate programs, many ranked among the best in the country. Search for your area of study and learn more about all of our degrees.
Common Questions about the GRE
What is the GRE General Test?
The GRE General is a standardized test that is used by many graduate programs and business schools as part of the application process. The test is administered by computer, but the GRE is not computer adaptive. The GRE measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills that are not related to any specific field of study.
Who administers the exam?
Educational Testing Services administers the exam and provides information on their official website for the GRE. The computer based test is offered at testing centers through out the year.
What is tested on the GRE?
Analytical Writing – 2 questions answered in essay format:
- 1 Analysis of an Issue
- 1 Analysis of an Argument
Verbal – focuses on your ability to analyze and evaluate written material
- Reading Comprehension – read a short passage and answer questions
- Text Completion – fill in omitted words or phrases for given passages
- Sentence Equivalence – single sentence, select the two best answers that complete the sentence and are alike in meaning
Quantitative - tests your problem-solving ability using general mathematics skills including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Quantitative Comparison
- Problem Solving
- Multiple Choice Questions
- Numeric Entry Questions
- Data Interpretation
How is the GRE scored?
The scale for the GRE is 130 – 170 per section for the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. An additional score of 0-6 will be given for the Analytical Writing. A good score is defined as one that gets you into the program you want, not by a number. Check with the programs you are considering and ask them if they have a minimum and an average for their program to get a better idea of what a good score will be for you. A 150 on each section will be the 50th percentile.
What has changed about the GRE?
Exam content, formatting, and scoring. However, the core of the exam is basically the same. The changes are intended to improve the exam’s ability to measure critical reasoning skills and assess your likelihood of success in graduate school – the same goal the exam has always had. The exam will still consist of three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
How much does it cost to take the GRE?
The fee for the test is $195, but the price changes frequently. The rescheduling fee and to change your test center are both $50 (within 3 days of appointment date). Check the GRE website for cancellation fees and other fees.
Why did ETS decide to change the GRE?
The new GRE places more emphasis on data interpretation and critical thinking skills. The test also includes a new scoring matrix, which is intended to help schools compare differences between students in a more meaningful way.
Who should take the GRE?
The GRE is used by programs in a variety of areas of study, including most social sciences, education, and some business schools. Check with the programs you are considering and find out whether or not they require or accept the GRE. The GRE is increasingly being accepted by business schools for entry into MBA and related programs.
How do I contact ETS about the GRE?
You can contact ETS between the hours of 8:00 am – 7:45 pm Eastern Standard Time at 1–866-473-4373 or visit their website.
Do I need to take the GRE General or one of the GRE Subject tests?
Most programs require the GRE General. In addition to the GRE General, there are also subject-specific GRE exams. These subject tests are used by specific areas of study and are intended for students that have extensive backgrounds in an area of study. Tests include: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Literature, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
Can I take a practice test?
Practice tests are available free from ETS, the writers of the GRE. You can download the Powerprep2 software from the GRE website.
How do I register for the GRE?
Register online for the computer-based test via the ETS website.
UofSC Graduate School Resources
The University of South Carolina offers a wide range of master's and doctoral degrees and provides the resources you need to help you make your decision.
Apply to The Graduate School
More than 6,200 graduate students make the University of South Carolina their academic home and they all began with application to The Graduate School. Take a look at the application requirements, deadlines and learn more about what to do before you apply.
Finance Your Education
Pursuing an advanced degree can be a wise investment and The Graduate School is your starting point to learn about graduate fellowships, assistantships, grants and other forms of financial aid at USC.
Schedule a Visit
The best way to learn about our campus is to see for yourself. Take a quick look around, plan your visit and call the Visitor Center at 800-922-9755 to inquire about available tours for graduate students.
Explore Career Options
The Career Center can help you identify full and part-time employment options. The center also hosts career fairs, job shadowing opportunities and offers mock interviewing, counseling, career assessments and workshops.
Take the GRE Exam at USC-Columbia
The University Testing Center located on the USC-Columbia campus provides testing services for the GRE.
Preparing for the GRE is a great first step toward graduate school and if at any time you have questions or need more information, you can ask an expert.