If you are planning on attending graduate school, you may be required to submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, as part of the application process. This test has multiple choice sections and an essay section. Read on to learn how to take the GRE.

• The GRE is a standardized test, similar to the SAT, used by graduate schools as part of the admissions process. In addition to the GRE General Test, there are also eight subject specific tests available in areas such as biology, chemistry, computer science, and literature.

• The GRE is a computer-based test in the United States and Canada. Paper based tests are still offered in other areas of the world.

1. You can register for the GRE online, by phone, or through the mail.
2. When you register, be very careful to use the exact name that is on the ID you will present at the testing center.http://www.ets.org/portal/site/ets/menuitem.1488512ecfd5b8849a77b13bc3921509/?vgnextoid=e1452d3631df4010VgnVCM10000022f95190RCRD&vgnextchannel=e58846f1674f4010VgnVCM10000022f95190RCRD#When_You_Register

(Creative Commons photo by Eric James Sarmiento)

After registering for the GRE, you can access free preparation materials on the GRE website and other websites on the Internet. Some students also find taking prep classes or using commercial prep software helpful.

The GRE includes a writing section as well as multiple choice sections. The multiple choice section is computer adaptive, with correct answers resulting in you being given higher level questions, and incorrect answers prompting simpler questions. There are some strategies that can help to improve your score.

Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the instructions for each section. Being familiar with the directions ahead of time means you won't need to read them carefully on test day and will have more time to answer questions.

When you show up for the test, make sure to have the proper identification with you. You will not be able to take the test if you do not have these items. For a computer based test, you do not need to bring anything else with you. Scrap paper and pencils will be provided at the testing site. If you are taking the paper and pencil administration, be sure to bring pencils with you. Any items written in pen will not be scored, including the essay.

Remember that the computer based testing is a computer-adaptive test. This means that your first few answers will determine whether you are offered the higher level questions that you need to answer correctly to get higher scores.

Double check your work before moving on to the next question. You can't go back and change an answer.

• In order to take the GRE, you need to register for the test and be prepared for the exam. Using smart test-taking strategies on test day can help to improve your score.

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