什么是GRE

GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test for graduate school admissions. It's used for various fields and disciplines except law (LSAT) and business (GMAT). Two types of GRE tests exist: the General GRE for most applicants and the Subject GRE for specific fields.

Subject GRE tests are less common among Chinese students as many US universities only require the General GRE. However, if your undergraduate degree differs from the one you're applying to, a Subject GRE score might be required. For instance, if A, with a physics bachelor's from a Chinese university, applies for an economics MA in the US, they need an economics Subject GRE score. The same applies to biochemistry MA applicants.

Some top US universities consider Subject GRE scores as recommendations, not mandatory requirements. Such scores can significantly enhance scholarship prospects, especially if you have ample time to prepare for one.

The General GRE lasts three hours, divided into six sections, all multiple-choice questions. No penalty for incorrect answers. The test is divided into three sections: Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical, each scored out of 800, totaling 2400.

The Verbal section tests vocabulary depth and breadth through sentence completion, analogy, reading comprehension, and antonyms. It covers various scientific fields, with a focus on biochemistry, astronomy, literature, geography, and history. The Quantitative section assesses arithmetic, algebra, and geometry concepts covered in high school, usually yielding high scores for Chinese students.

The Analytical section has two parts: Analytical Reasoning and Logical Reasoning, evaluating critical thinking and logical analysis skills. Chinese students might find the language sections challenging due to the difference in vocabulary, but TOEFL scores over 550 often mitigate this impact, as they demonstrate strong English proficiency.

In conclusion, GRE is essential for graduate school admissions, with Subject GRE scores serving as valuable assets for scholarship applications, especially for those whose undergraduate and graduate fields differ. Preparing for either the General or Subject GRE can significantly impact your academic journey and financial support prospects in the US.