Have you decided to appear for the GRE? If yes, you must already have heard about the computer-adaptive nature of the test. Though a lot of you might know the question pattern of GRE, most of you might have doubts regarding the computer adaptive nature of the test.  As a test taker, it is important for you to know and be aware of how the test works.

In this article, we’ll explain how the GRE exam is scored, why it is called computer-adaptive, and the average GRE scores you need to get admission to Indian colleges. 

Computer Adaptive Nature of GRE

The Verbal and Quantitative sections of GRE are computer-adaptive. However, unlike GMAT, which is question-level adaptive, GRE is section-level adaptive. This means the difficulty level of the second subsection of each main section (Verbal or Quant) changes based on how well you did in the first subsection. In other words, the difficulty level of the second subsection might become difficult or easy  based on your performance in the first subsection. 

The cumulative score range of GRE is 260-340. However, section wise there is a difference in the  GRE scoring pattern. The Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning sections are scored separately on a range of 130-170, while the Analytical Writing is scored on a scale of 1-6. The reported scores for the Verbal and Quant sections are based on the number of correct answers for the questions in that specific section. First, the ETS calculates a raw score for each section based on the number of correct responses. Then, this score is converted to a scaled score using a process called equating. 

Unlike the other two sections, the Analytical reasoning measure of the GRE is evaluated twice — once by a human evaluator, and then by an e-rater, a computerized program. If both the scores match approximately, the average of the two scores will be used as the final scores. If not, another human evaluator will check the section, and the average of scores given by both human raters will be taken as the final score. 

What is a Good GRE Score?

A good GRE score is subjective, and it varies based on the program and the college you apply to. However, here is a table that will give you an idea of what is considered a good, average, or excellent score in the GRE.

Though GRE scores are mainly considered for masters and Ph.D. courses abroad, a lot of Indian universities have also started considering GRE for various programmes of late. Top schools like IIM, ISB, IFMR, etc., consider GRE scores for the programs they offer. Hence, if you are planning to take the test to pursue a master’s in any Indian college, having an idea of average GRE score in India is essential. However, most colleges don’t mention the cut-off scores on their website. Hence, it is best to target a score above 310 if you wish to get admission to top schools like ISB, IIM, or IFMR. 

We hope this article helps you understand the scoring pattern and computer-adaptive nature of GRE. Whether you are planning to do master’s in India or abroad, a good GRE score improves your chances of getting admissions. Hence, start the preparations. Good luck!