GRE exam

DaveCRNA · Nov 4, 2008

As said before, look at school requirements. I know of people admitted with scores in the 800s. Some schools only use GRE as a tie breaker and some don't even want or require a GRE score.

That being said, I studied hard for about two months. I used Barron's book for math review. I just read through the entire math section. As said by someone else the key to the math section is finding the fast way to solve the problem. Almost anyone could find the answer to these questions eventually by working through long hand. But you don't have the time for that.

I used the free site http://www.number2.com for some math review and extensively for my vocab review, just sign up for a user name. I am an avid reader which helps with the vocab also. Once again the vocab is about how you take the test also. Being able to understand the meaning of the question without knowing a specific word. Being able to eliminate some answers based on the meaning of the word.

With this I scored a 1280, imo a very respectable score.

I would say from reading message boards and speaking with friends most accepted into programs score from 900 - 1100 or so with most falling in 1000-1100 range.

:twocents:

JadamR15 · Nov 6, 2008

What do you mean that "you don't have time for that?" Are the tests timed? Thanks!!

DaveCRNA · Nov 6, 2008

What do you mean that "you don't have time for that?" Are the tests timed? Thanks!!

Yes, all parts of the GRE are timed.

The following info is summarised from: http://www.computerbasedtest.com/gre_general.html

GRE CBT Time and Questions The duration of the test is approximately three and one-half to four hours.

Tutorials .....................No time limit

Analytical Issue ..........45 minutes..........1 topic

Analytical Argument ....30 minutes..........1 topic

Verbal.........................30 minutes..........30 questions

Quantitative.................45 minutes..........28 questions

Most of the questions in Verbal and Quantitative sections are multiple choices.

In the writing sections you must compose an essay based on one or two topics assigned randomly from a large pool of topics. You must select one topic and write only on the topic. An essay on any other topic will be scored a 0.

gators77 · Nov 7, 2008

It seems to me that the best way to increasce your verbal score is to increase your vocab, do others agree? I like the idea of learning 50 new words a week...seems like breaking it down like that would be beneficial.

Any other tips or ideas?

Summitk2 · Nov 8, 2008

Don't stress about the GRE if you're a generally well-rounded applicant. If you don't have any weaknesses (especially low GPA) then just shoot for 1100 or so. You really don't need scores like some people are posting... 1300s or 1400s. Spend 1 month with a good review book, do at least 4 or 5 practice exams (and actually practice writing the essay!), and you'll be fine.

The GRE has been statistically proven to have VERY low correlation with success of graduate students. Most schools know this. Why they keep requiring it, I don't know. Focus more on the rest of your application unless you know your GRE score is heavily weighted.

Happy Halothane · Nov 9, 2008

Standardized tests are obsolete in many facets. Why do undergraduate programs require the ACT or SAT for entry? Why does National Merit base its reward on the PSAT? Why does the NCAA require a minimum SAT/ACT score?

The fact is, besides GPA and the degree of difficulty of your baccalaureate degree, we need another tool to assess your competency. Your degree assesses the ability to complete a program. Your GPA dictates your focus. Your GRE helps assess aptitude....how quickly you can learn things.

Most graduate programs (not just anesthesia) require a minimum 1000-1050. Many anesthesia programs will allow a score in the 900s, but only with a balancing act of your GPA, clinical experience, and interview results.