What is a good GRE score? What your results mean

A good GRE score is one that exceeds both the national average and the median scores of admitted students at your target programs. The GRE has a score range of 260 to 340, combining Verbal Reasoning (130-170) and Quantitative Reasoning (130-170), with a separately scored Analytical Writing section on a 0-6 scale. The current average GRE scores are 151 for Verbal Reasoning and 158 for Quantitative Reasoning, so anything meaningfully above those benchmarks is generally considered competitive.

What counts as “good” depends largely on the competitiveness of the programs you’re targeting and the strengths you want to emphasize. GRE percentile rankings also vary significantly by section: a score of 165 places you in the 95th percentile for Verbal Reasoning but only the 67th percentile for Quantitative Reasoning.

The GRE, which stands for the Graduate Record Examination, is an important test taken by aspiring master’s, PhD, and fellowship students worldwide. With many graduate programs adopting test-optional policies in recent years, GRE scores have become more important, not less. Rather than serving as a minimum requirement, a high score can now help differentiate your application. Familiarity with the exam’s scoring system, percentile rankings, and score-reporting policies can help you set realistic targets and create a more effective study plan.

How is the GRE scored, and what is the GRE score range?

GRE scores range from 260 to 340. The exam is scored on a scale to maintain consistency across test versions and consists of Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning, each containing 27 questions total and scored 130-170, plus a separately scored Analytical Writing section. Raw scores (the number of questions you got right on each section) are converted to scaled scores based on the Educational Testing Service (ETS) scoring system.

The exam is delivered digitally and uses a section-adaptive format: each section is split into two subsections, and your performance on the first determines the difficulty of the second. Harder questions are weighted more heavily to maintain fairness across test versions. Performing well on the first subsection gives you access to more difficult questions and a higher possible score range.

What is an average GRE score?

As of 2025, the average combined GRE score was approximately 309 out of 340, with average section scores of 151.21 in Verbal Reasoning and 157.58 in Quantitative Reasoning. The average Analytical Writing score was 3.44 out of 6. These results are generally acceptable for admission to a wide range of graduate programs, though highly selective schools often expect scores well above these averages.

A “good” GRE score is generally anything above those averages, though students targeting top master’s, PhD, and other advanced-degree programs may aim for the 75th, 80th, or even 95th percentile.

It’s also important to remember that many graduate programs look for subject-specific strengths:

• Strong quantitative performance matters most for STEM programs.
• High verbal scores are essential for competitive humanities programs.
• Some programs, such as those in the social sciences, may require robust quantitative and verbal scores as evidence of well-roundedness.
• Students switching fields (for example, a computer scientist entering a philosophy program, or a sociology major entering a quantitative program) can use the GRE to demonstrate mastery of a different subject area.

When setting your score goal, consider:

• Score ranges of accepted students at your chosen programs
• Whether your program values quantitative skills, verbal skills, or both
• Whether you need to demonstrate ability in a new field of study

The GRE is a great opportunity to showcase skills that may not be obvious from your GPA or course history, as well as to provide additional validation of your quantitative and verbal reasoning abilities.

GRE score chart: Understanding GRE percentiles

When you receive your GRE score report, you’ll see both your scaled scores and percentile rankings for each section (Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing). These percentiles reflect how your performance compares with that of other GRE test takers, typically based on results from the previous three years.

Your percentile rank indicates how your score compares with those of other GRE test takers. For example, a 168 places you in the 99th percentile for Verbal Reasoning, meaning you performed better than 99% of recent examinees. That same score corresponds to the 81st percentile in Quantitative Reasoning. In general, scores at or above the 85th percentile are considered highly competitive and place you among the top test takers nationwide.

When do GRE scores come out?

You’ll see unofficial Verbal and Quantitative scores right after your test, and official scores, including Analytical Writing, are released eight to ten days later. Understanding this timeline matters when planning for graduate school application deadlines, which vary by program but often fall in winter or early spring. Schedule your exam early enough to ensure your scores are available before your earliest application deadline.

When is the GRE offered?

The GRE is offered year-round at test centers worldwide, with testing available on most days. Test takers may retake the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times in any rolling 12-month period.

How to send GRE scores to graduate schools

On test day, you can send your GRE scores to up to four graduate institutions or fellowship sponsors at no additional cost. ETS provides a list of approved institutions and sponsors eligible to receive GRE score reports.

If you want to send scores to additional schools or decide to send them after test day, you can purchase Additional Score Reports (ASRs) for $40 each.

The ScoreSelect option lets you send scores from your most recent test, all of your test administrations, or any specific GRE General Test or Subject Test results.

Additional questions

What is a 90% GRE score?

A GRE score above the 90th percentile would be 163 (91st) for Verbal Reasoning and 170 (91st) for Quantitative Reasoning. Given the high average performance on the GRE quant section, achieving a top percentile here is especially competitive.

Is a 300 GRE score hard to get?

A 300 lies below the average score of 309, making it fairly achievable with moderate preparation. While a 300 may not be particularly competitive, it’s a strong starting point for students who could see greater score gains through intentional study.

Is 320 a good GRE score?

How good a 320 is depends on individual section scores. Theoretically, a student could earn a 170 in Verbal Reasoning (a perfect section score) and a 150 in Quantitative Reasoning (the 24th percentile). Overall, however, a 320 is a solid, above-average score that opens doors to many programs.

Is 339 a good GRE score?

A 339 is an excellent GRE score, just one point below the maximum of 340, meaning 170 in one section and 169 in the other. A 339 would be an incredibly competitive score for high-ranking programs in virtually any field, especially when paired with a strong Analytical Writing score.

How rare is a perfect GRE score?

A “perfect” GRE score of 340 requires a 170 in both Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning, plus a 6 in Analytical Writing. A 170 in Verbal is the 99th percentile, a 170 in Quant is the 91st percentile, and a 6 in writing is the 99th percentile. A student would need to outperform the vast majority of other test takers in all three areas, making a perfect score genuinely rare.

How hard is the GRE without studying?

The GRE is challenging: it covers advanced reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing, and math (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis). Difficulty depends on your background: a STEM major may struggle with Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing, while a humanities major may find the Quantitative Reasoning section especially hard.

The format adds to the challenge. With a total testing time of 1 hour 58 minutes, unprepared test takers often experience exam fatigue, and GRE questions use precise, intricate wording that’s best mastered through regular practice. Taking the GRE without any preparation isn’t advisable: studying lets you maximize your score and give graduate programs a clearer picture of your abilities.

What is a good GRE score for a master’s program?

A good GRE score depends on the average or median performance of admitted students at your target programs. Highly selective schools, such as Ivy League universities, often admit students with near-perfect scores. Programs focused on a specific niche (mechanical engineering, economics, political theory, etc.) likely weigh each section differently: a student aiming for a master’s in history will want exceptional Verbal Reasoning and writing scores, while a student switching from economics to computer science can showcase quantitative ability through a strong math score. Strong performance across both sections signals well-rounded analytical and communication skills, which are assets in any field.

Generally, above-average section scores (over 151.21 Verbal, 157.58 Quant, and 3.44 Analytical Writing) open doors to many programs. A 160 or higher in either section is considered highly competitive, though some selective programs have averages closer to 165. Always check whether the programs you’re interested in publish accepted-student statistics so you can set a realistic target.

What is a good GRE score for a PhD?

The same logic applies to PhD admissions: a good GRE score is relative to the programs you’re considering. Note, however, that research experience, mentorship, and connections with potential advisors are weighted more heavily for PhD programs than for master’s programs. Strong GRE scores will enhance your profile, but they’re often less of a deciding factor at the doctoral level.

Can I use the GRE for business school?

Yes, the GRE is now accepted at nearly all MBA programs, including top-ranked schools. For a long time, the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) was considered the “gold standard” for business school admissions, but that has changed substantially in recent years.

Some MBA programs that accept the GRE include:

• Harvard Business School
• Stanford Graduate School of Business
• Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania)

In most cases, business schools have no preference between the GRE and the GMAT, opening admissions to a wider range of applicants. The GMAT is more heavily focused on math and data insights, while the GRE lets students showcase reading and analytical thinking skills alongside quantitative ability. Choose the exam that best demonstrates your readiness for advanced study.

Is the GRE easier than the GMAT?

The GRE and GMAT are roughly equal in difficulty but test slightly different skills. The GRE uses somewhat less difficult math, while one of the GMAT’s hardest features is its emphasis on logical reasoning embedded in quantitative questions. The GRE math section, by contrast, doesn’t include integrated logic problems, which is why many test takers find GRE quant more approachable and GRE prep more straightforward.

The GRE emphasizes reading comprehension, sentence completion, writing, and vocabulary; the GMAT has a short, 23-question Verbal Reasoning section and no essay. Two of the GMAT’s three sections, Quantitative Reasoning and Data Insights, test quantitative abilities. Students without much reading- or writing-intensive coursework may find the Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing portions of the GRE harder to prepare for. A high GMAT score signals readiness for graduate-level quantitative work, while a strong GRE lets you highlight other skills alongside math.

Can I use the GRE for law school?

Yes, over 100 American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited JD programs now accept GRE scores for law school admissions. The GRE can give applicants an edge if they have strong quantitative skills, but the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) remains the standard and is still more widely accepted. While the GRE tests general academic skills, the LSAT heavily emphasizes logical reasoning, reading, and writing skills central to success in law school.

Should I take the GRE if it’s optional?

The decision to submit GRE scores to test-optional programs is strategic. Top scores can boost your chances of admission, but average to below-average scores may hurt your application. Since 2020, many schools have made the GRE optional, and while some have updated their policies since, many remain test-optional or have dropped requirements entirely.

Here’s a quick checklist for test-optional schools:

• Submit if your scores are at or above your target program’s average GRE range.
• Strong scores can boost admission odds and unlock merit scholarships.
• High scores can offset a lower GPA or other weaker parts of your application.
• If your scores are below average, consider withholding them and focus on essays, experience, and recommendations.

Even if you’re applying only to test-optional schools, it’s worth studying for and taking the GRE: strong scores add a positive data point that admissions committees will consider.

How to increase your GRE score

Preparing for the GRE is typically a multi-month commitment, and a structured study plan makes a significant difference.

• Start early and build a realistic study schedule that fits around school, work, extracurriculars, and personal responsibilities.
  • Tip: Starting ahead of time gives you flexibility when unexpected events come up.
• Get familiar with the GRE’s format, section structure, and scoring system so you know exactly what to expect on test day.
• Take full-length, timed practice exams regularly to build endurance, improve pacing, and measure your progress under realistic conditions.
• Alongside official ETS materials, use reputable third-party resources that closely reflect the GRE’s fully digital testing experience.

Starting prep well in advance keeps your graduate school goals within reach. Most students spend one to three months studying and often take the GRE in the spring or fall before winter application deadlines. Graduate admission timelines vary by program and location, so plan your study schedule and test date carefully. GRE scores remain valid for five years, giving you flexibility to apply later or spend time in the workforce first.

How do I send GRE scores to my schools of choice, and how long does it take?

During your exam, you can designate up to four schools or fellowships to receive your scores at no extra cost. After test day, you can send additional score reports through the ETS portal for a $40 fee per recipient, and you can choose which test attempts to share. It takes around five business days to process requests to send GRE scores to designated institutions.

Final thoughts

GRE scoring can seem complex at first, especially given the scaled scoring system and adaptive format. But understanding what counts as a competitive score for your target programs helps you build a more focused and effective study strategy, whether you’re applying to highly selective universities or regional graduate programs.

Achieving a strong GRE score begins with consistent preparation and intentional practice. Studying with official GRE materials, reviewing real exam-style questions, and taking regular full-length GRE practice tests will help you build confidence, shore up weak areas, and improve performance over time. With a disciplined study plan, you’ll be better positioned to earn competitive GRE scores and stand out to admissions committees.