If pursuing a master’s or PhD abroad is your dream, then you have to cross the first hurdle — the GRE exam. The GRE exam is taken by half a million aspirants like you every year, and for this reason, the test is considered highly competitive. Hence, you need to efficiently prepare to stand out from all the other candidates and clear the test with flying colours. Now, if you’re thinking about how to start your GRE preparation, we’re here to help you. Keep reading!

How to Prepare for the GRE Exam?

Your performance in the GRE test highly relies on how effectively you prepare for it. Hence, it is important to dedicate adequate time for learning the subjects and practicing them, despite your busy schedule. The time needed for the preparation differs from person to person. However, try to start your preparations as early as possible so that you get time for possible retakes. Given below are some GRE preparation tips to help you decide how to go about it.

  • Know the test – GRE offers tests in two formats — General test and Subject test. The general test measures your knowledge in three areas — Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning, whereas the subject test measures your expertise in a particular field of study. It is important to be acquainted with all the information related to GRE, especially the syllabus, before starting the preparation. A good grasp of structure and the timing for each section in the GRE exam helps you create a study plan and prepare effectively.
  • Set a target score – Set a target score before you start the preparation. This will motivate you to stick to your goal and work towards achieving it. To determine a target score, you can create a list of the schools you wish to apply to, note down the average cut-offs, compare the scores and set a slightly higher target. 
  • Create a study plan – Once you set a base score to achieve, the next step is to create an effective study plan. GRE exam preparation is incomplete without a good study plan. Come up with a plan for whatever time you have left for the exam. Based on your day to day work, allot some time for the GRE preparation and divide the topics for each day.
  • Attempt practice tests – Practice tests not only familiarizes you with the type of questions asked, but also helps you track your progress. Hence, take as many mock tests and practice tests as possible. The official website of GRE provides mock tests, paid and free. Attempt such tests and note down the areas that need improvement. 
  • Improve your vocabulary – The verbal section of the GRE tests your English knowledge at different levels, one important section is your vocabulary. Hence, build your vocabulary by reading English language books, newspapers, magazines or by referring to the GRE official guide. Note down new words you come across, and learn that. Besides, Verbal Reasoning is an important section in the GRE exam that contributes to your overall GRE score.
  • Keep a positive attitude – Ensure that you are not stressed out throughout the preparation phase. A positive mindset is essential to face the exam with confidence. Hence, to avoid physical and mental burnout, find time for yourselves and engage in some fun activities to not feel too stressed out.
GRE Online Preparation

With the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, attending offline classes has become riskier than ever. Hence, the situation calls for a preparation method that avoids the risk of disease as well as saves time and effort. GRE online preparation platforms do just that. It is cheaper, more effective and convenient, allowing you to learn and practice from the comfort of your home. 

A lot of online platforms are available to assist you in your GRE preparation. Subscribing to the GRE preparation online classes helps you balance your daily work and studies. With this, you will get hours of online classes and guidance from experts, access to a multitude of preparation materials and more. The CareerLabs is one such online GRE preparation site that aims to guide you from the preparation phase to appearing for the test. 

GRE Dates 2021

There are no fixed dates to take the GRE exam. GRE Dates 2021 are available throughout the year and you can choose a date according to your comfort and convenience by booking a slot 45 days prior. Also, with the availability of the ETS GRE test at home, you can now appear for the exam from the comfort of your home. However, while choosing a date it is important to consider some factors such as:

  • The deadlines to the business schools you apply for
  • The time you need to do all the preparations for the GRE
  • Possibility of reattempts

Additionally, you must remember that there should be a 21 days gap between the retakes, and you can only take the test for up to five times within a 12-month period. 

A good GRE score can land you a spot in your dream university. However, this isn’t something that happens overnight. You need to dedicate ample time and prepare well to make your way through the GRE exam. Hence, consider the above GRE preparation tips, start the preparation soon and give the exam with confidence.

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