GRE General Test 2025 is divided into 3 main sections.
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Analytical Writing
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Verbal Reasoning
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Quantitative Reasoning
In this article, we will discuss the syllabus for each section.
GRE Section-Wise Syllabus 2025
With a detailed emphasis on each section, we will explore the GRE course syllabus that needs to be covered:
Analytical Writing:
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Task: Analyze an Issue / Scenario / Situation
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Skills tested: Logical thinking, clarity of ideas, argument structure, use of examples. Make sure you connect your explanation comprehensively and logically.
Verbal Reasoning:
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Question types: GRE verbal syllabus includes reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence
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Topics: Sentence structure (nouns, verbs, adjectives), subject-verb agreement, modifiers and parallelism, idioms and expressions, contextual vocabulary
Quantitative Reasoning:
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Question types: Quant comparison, numeric Entry, multiple-choice questions and more similar types of questions.
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Arithmetic topics: Percentages, ratios, number properties
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Algebra topics: Equations, inequalities, functions
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Geometry topics: Lines, angles, shapes, area and volume
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Data analysis topics: Statistics, probability, interpreting graphs and tables
Please note that there is no specific syllabus of GRE exam subject. In fact, general topics that are related and relevant to all fields of study are assessed.
GRE Exam Topics Difficulty Levels
Based on past trends and expert analysis, GRE exam topics can be divided into the following categories - easy, moderate and difficult. The following has been mentioned in the table below:
| Section |
Easy Topics |
Moderate Topics |
Difficult Topics |
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Verbal Reasoning
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Basic grammar, sentence correction
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Idioms, modifiers, vocab usage
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Complex reading comprehensions, sentence equivalence
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Quant Reasoning
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Arithmetic, basic algebra
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Geometry, data interpretation
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Advanced probability, combinations
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Preparation Strategies
Now, based on your preparation timeline and current stage of preparation, there are certain expert preparation strategies that you can follow to improve your GRE scores:
For beginners:
For intermediate learners:
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Timeline: 2 - 3 months
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Focus: Practice tests, analyze your errors and mistakes and learn time management
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Tip: Mix easy and moderate-level questions in daily practice
For advanced test-takers:
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Timeline: 1 - 2 months
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Focus: Practice high-difficulty questions, simulate test conditions
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Tip: Use error logs and refine strategies for maximum optimisation of time with minimum mistakes
Balancing GRE Prep with Other Commitments:
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Use mobile apps for quick vocabulary practice
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Study in short focused blocks
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Create weekly study goals
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Make sure you do not skip any day without preparation
Watch this video to understand more about GRE scores:
Resources for GRE Preparation
There are various materials and online resources available that can help you prepare for GRE syllabus for MS and other programs abroad. We have given some recommendations which are helpful for your preparation:
Recommended books:
Online Resources:
Score Improvement Techniques
There are certain tips and techniques that you can follow to improve your GRE score:
Verbal Section Tips:
Quant Section Tips:
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Focus on formulas and shortcuts
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Make sure you are clear with the basic concepts. Avoid repeating same process to each and every question.
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Practice data interpretation and word problems. Make sure you analyse the data as accurately as possible.
Analytical Writing Tips:
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Read sample essays, important articles and other comprehensions.
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Practice outlining responses before writing as structured approach is always appreciated.
Time Management Strategies:
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Always use a timer during practice. Never, never, never practice tests without a timer, as time is of utmost importance. Even if you know how to crack the questions, if you are not able to do so in a limited time, your skills will go wasted.
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Skip difficult questions. Do not waste time on questions that you are not able to crack by reading them.
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Practice full-length tests under real test conditions to acclimatize yourself to the test pattern and scenario.
The GRE is designed to assess your readiness for graduate-level work. With a shorter format and simplified structure, it is now more accessible and more popular than ever. Use the right resources, follow a study plan that fits your routine, and take plenty of practice tests to excel in your exam with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pattern for the GRE exam 2025?
The GRE 2025 follows a shorter format with one writing task, two verbal sections, and two quant sections, all to be completed in under 2 hours.
How long is GRE 2025?
The updated GRE takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete.
How to apply for the GRE exam 2025?
You can register for the GRE through the official ETS website: www.ets.org/gre. Choose your test date, and location, and pay the applicable fee online.
What is a good GRE score for top universities?
GRE score depends on your target programs, but generally:
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320+ is competitive for top universities
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310 - 320 is solid for mid to upper-tier schools
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Scores above 330 are considered excellent
Can I retake the GRE if I'm not satisfied with my score?
Yes! You can retake the GRE once every 21 days, up to 5 times in a 12-month period. Your best score can be sent to universities using the ScoreSelect option.