Each year, approximately 300,000 students take the GRE in pursuit of admission to top graduate programs. While strong subject knowledge is crucial, many test-takers struggle due to unfamiliarity with the exam’s format rather than a lack of skills. Since the GRE General Test is entirely computer-based, understanding its structure is essential for effective preparation.
The exam consists of three main sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. The total test duration is 1 hour and 58 minutes, with specific time allocations for each section—41 minutes for Verbal, 47 minutes for Quantitative, and 30 minutes for AWA.
GRE Sample Test Papers with Answers
We have compiled a set of GRE question papers with answer keys based on past exams for our readers. Below are some GRE general test sample paper sourced from reliable websites and ETS.
GRE Verbal Reasoning Questions with Answers - 1
GRE Verbal Reasoning Questions with Answers - 2
GRE Quantitative Reasoning Questions with Answers - 1
GRE Quantitative Reasoning Questions with Answers - 2
GRE Quantitative Practise Test
GRE Analytical Writing Practise Test
To perform well, candidates should practise with GRE mock tests under timed conditions to develop accuracy and speed. Beginners can start with GRE past papers from books or online platforms, gradually increasing the difficulty level. A structured study plan of at least 3 to 4 months is recommended to achieve a competitive GRE score of 300 or higher.
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GRE Previous Year Sample Paper
Practising with GRE past exams can help you understand the test format, question types, and difficulty level.
Here, we provide GRE previous year sample papers:
GRE Sample Test Papers: Section-Wise
Preparing with GRE General Test sample papers is one of the most effective ways to boost your performance. These papers help you familiarise yourself with the test format, question types, and section-wise time allocation.
Verbal GRE Sample Test Papers
The Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE assesses your ability to analyse and comprehend written material, understand vocabulary in context, and reason logically. This section is divided into two timed sub-sections to test your verbal skills and critical thinking.
Section 1
It contains 12 questions to be completed in 18 minutes, focusing on basic verbal skills such as sentence structure, meaning, and inference.
Section 2
It contains 15 questions to be completed in 23 minutes, testing more advanced reasoning, vocabulary, and comprehension.Verbal GRE Sample practise Test Papers: GRE Verbal Practise Paper 1GRE Verbal Practise Paper 2
Quantitative GRE Sample Test Papers
The Quantitative Reasoning section evaluates your ability to interpret quantitative data, solve mathematical problems, and apply concepts from various areas like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. This section tests your basic skills and problem-solving abilities under timed conditions.
Section 1
It contains 12 questions with a time limit of 21 minutes, covering fundamental mathematical concepts and quick calculations.
Section 2
It contains 15 questions to be completed in 26 minutes, focusing on more complex problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Quant GRE Sample Test Papers:
GRE Quantitative Practise Paper 1
GRE Quantitative Practise Paper 2
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Analytical Writing Assessment GRE Sample Test Papers
The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section tests your ability to think critically and express complex ideas clearly. In this section, you will encounter a single "Analyse an Issue" task, for which you have 30 minutes to construct a well-reasoned argument based on the given opinion.
- Task:
You must evaluate an opinion, address its complexities, and present a reasoned argument in support or against it.
AWA GRE Sample Test Papers:
GRE Analytical Writing Test Paper 1
GRE Analytical Writing Test Paper 2
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GRE Sample Test Papers: Subject-Wise Test Structure and and Content
The GRE Subject Tests are given in a paper-based format, so it’s important to prepare accordingly. The total test duration is 3 hours and 40 minutes. In addition to practise books, ETS, the organisation that conducts the test, provides a detailed overview and content for the Subject Tests. Students can access this to understand the full exam format.
Mathematics
The Mathematics test consists of approximately 66 multiple-choice questions, which are based on undergraduate-level courses commonly found in most academic institutions. The content is designed to assess fundamental concepts in various areas of mathematics.
Below are the content areas covered in the test.
Physics
The Physics Test consists of approximately 70 multiple-choice questions, with five answer choices per question. The questions may be accompanied by diagrams, graphs, experimental data, and descriptions of physical situations, all aimed at testing the extent of the examinee's understanding of fundamental physics principles and their ability to apply them in problem-solving.
- The test primarily covers materials from the first three years of undergraduate physics.
- Questions predominantly follow the International System (SI) of units, and test-takers are provided with a table of physical constants and conversion factors between SI units.
- The test includes subscores in three categories: Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Quantum Mechanics & Atomic Physics.
Here is the content areas covered in the test:
Psychology
The Psychology Test consists of approximately 144 multiple-choice questions. Each question has five options, and you must select the one that best answers the question. Some questions may be based on experimental descriptions or data analysis, and these may serve as the basis for multiple questions.
- The content focuses on core knowledge commonly found in undergraduate psychology courses, with topics drawn from a broad range of psychological subfields.
- Questions test the ability to recall factual information, analyse relationships, apply principles, and evaluate research designs.
- The test adheres to the terminology and classifications from the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision).
Below are the content areas:
All the subject-wise GRE sample test papers are available on the official website.
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GRE Sample Questions
Practising with GRE sample questions helps test-takers familiarise themselves with the exam format and question types. Below are sample questions for GRE Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing (AWA) to enhance your preparation.
GRE Sample Test Papers: Verbal Practise Questions
Question 1: Sentence Equivalence
While many believe the author’s latest novel to be a brilliant work of literary fiction, others criticise it for its excessive and unnecessary verbosity, claiming that the author’s use of such an elaborate style is nothing more than a (__________) attempt to impress readers with his command of the language.
Options:
a) painstaking
b) ostentatious
c) meticulous
d) pretentious
e) subtle
Question 2: Reading Comprehension
Passage: “Research indicates that biodiversity in rainforests is declining at an unprecedented rate. While some scientists attribute this primarily to deforestation, others argue that the introduction of invasive species plays an equally significant role. Regardless of the cause, it is clear that the loss of biodiversity has far-reaching consequences not only for the ecosystems themselves but also for human populations who rely on these environments for resources such as food, medicine, and clean air.”
Question:
According to the passage, the decline in biodiversity:
a) is mainly due to deforestation.
b) is caused solely by invasive species.
c) affects both ecosystems and human populations.
d) can be mitigated by halting deforestation.
e) has no impact on human populations.
GRE Sample Test Papers: Quantitative Practise Questions
Question 1: Geometry and Algebra
A rectangular garden has a length that is 4 meters longer than its width. If the perimeter of the garden is 48 meters, what are the dimensions of the garden?
Question 2: Data Interpretation and Ratios
A class of students consists of boys and girls in the ratio of 3:2. If there are 30 students in total, how many boys and how many girls are in the class?
GRE Sample Test Papers: AWA Practise Questions
Question 1: Analyse an Issue
The best ideas arise from a passionate interest in commonplace things.
Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Question 2: Analyse an Argument
The following appeared as part of an article in a magazine about planning for retirement:
“In recent years, many Americans who have worked for decades have seen their retirement plans disrupted by the combination of high inflation and a bear market. To avoid similar problems, workers today should invest their retirement savings in assets that are guaranteed to grow, such as real estate. Real estate has historically been a safe investment, with property values increasing consistently over time. By investing in real estate, workers can safeguard their retirement savings from the volatility of the stock market and inflation.”
Write a response in which you discuss what specific evidence is needed to evaluate the argument and explain how the evidence would weaken or strengthen the argument.
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GRE Sample Test Papers in Other Accessible Formats
ETS, the official test administrator, offers preparation tools for individuals with disabilities or health-related needs who require test materials in specific formats. These materials include:
- Review materials for the GRE General Test (available in all accessible formats)
- Practise tests for the computer-delivered GRE General Test
- Practise tests for the GRE General Test in additional accessible formats
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GRE Preparation Tips and Strategies for Success
A good GRE score can improve your chances of getting into top universities. To score well, you need a proper study plan and regular practise. Below are easy and effective tips for the three main GRE sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Follow these simple strategies to boost your confidence and get a great score!
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How to Use GRE Sample Test Papers Effectively?
To maximise the effectiveness of your GRE practise tests, follow these strategies:
1. Create Exam-Like Conditions
Take each practise test in a quiet space without distractions, adhering to strict time limits to replicate the real test experience.
2. Evaluate Your Responses
After completing the test, carefully review each answer to understand mistakes and improve accuracy.
3. Identify Weak Spots
Analyse your performance to spot patterns. Focus on the question types or sections where you struggle the most.
4. Set Measurable Targets
Establish realistic goals for every practise session and track your improvement over time. Use mistakes as stepping stones for growth.
5. Get Constructive Feedback
Seek guidance from teachers, mentors, or study partners to gain valuable insights and enhance your test-taking strategies.
GRE General Test Syllabus
The GRE General Test syllabus has three main sections: GRE Analytical Writing, GRE Verbal Reasoning, and GRE Quantitative Reasoning.
The table below provides a breakdown of the topics covered in each section.
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GRE Exam Pattern
The GRE computer-based test is designed to be user-friendly and lasts 1 hour and 58 minutes. Understanding the GRE Exam Pattern can help candidates prepare effectively.
Below is the detailed GRE structure:
GRE Preparation Books
Choosing a good GRE preparation book can improve your understanding of concepts, boost your confidence, and enhance your test-taking strategies. Below is a list of some of the best GRE books, along with their key features and prices.
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GRE Online vs Paper-Based Exam Pattern
The GRE is available in two formats: the computer-based (online) GRE and the paper-based GRE. While both versions assess Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, there are differences in timing, accessibility, and test-taking experience.
Key Differences Between Online and Paper-Based GRE
Consistent practise with mock tests, GRE sample test papers, and time management strategies is essential to scoring well, regardless of the format. Using ETS-provided GRE practise tests and reviewing previous year’s GRE questions can enhance preparation for both versions.
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