Greetings from the UC Merced Graduate Division team! We are sharing tips and advice on navigating the graduate school application process.
We all have that one thing we are terrified of doing. For some it might be getting a root canal at the dentist but for many prospective grad students, it’s taking the GRE (Graduate Record of Examination). Given the choice, some of us would rather have the root canal than take the exam. But do not stress; become informed and prepared for the exam!
Below, you will find advice to help you prepare for the exam. As you read the information, keep in mind that there is evidence that GRE scores are not a clear predictor of students’ potential for success in graduate school. UC Merced has no minimum GRE score requirement and we review our applicants holistically; this means we are looking at all the application aspects that make YOU an excellent prospective graduate student. Test scores are just one piece of the puzzle!
First, what is the GRE?
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) are a set of standardized exams used by graduate schools as admissions criteria. The general GRE consists of a verbal (put those Word of the Day calendars to use), a quantitative and an analytical writing section. Scores are valid for five years and you can retake the exam as many times as you would like. We recommend that you plan on taking the GRE the summer before your senior year, but if you are applying for Fall 2020 admission and have not taken the GRE — it’s not too late!
Map Out A Plan for Success
Creating a timeline for taking the GRE can be helpful. Think of your approach to any standard exam — do you prepare for weeks for a final or do you tend to cram the night before? We too like to live on the edge, but cramming for the GRE is not a wise decision (especially since you paid out of pocket to take the test)! Allow yourself at least four to six weeks of dedicated study time ahead of the exam, and practice taking as many free online exams as you can. A web search will help you find test preparation resources.
Tips and Advice
Know your Graduate Program Requirements: You will likely be applying to multiple institutions and each one will have their own set of application requirements. Check if a subject exam is needed or if the general exam is all that is required. At UC Merced, we require the general exam for all programs, except for the Master of Management M.M. program. Our Physics program requires the physics subject exam in addition to the general exam.
School Codes:If you have graduate schools in mind that you want to send scores to, it is helpful to know their school codes so they can be sent directly by ETS. The GRE institution code for UC Merced is 4129. You may self-report scores on the application; however, official scores are required to complete your application.
Fee Waivers for the Exam: The cost of the GRE is $205. Don’t let the cost of the exam be a barrier to graduate school. Contact ETS if you have a financial need and are not able to pay for the exam. Reduced waivers are also available for programs such as McNair Scholars and MARC, so check with your campus program coordinator.
Campus Resources:Make sure to explore your school’s Career Services Center or related center to see if they offer GRE preparation courses or workshops. Most of the time these are free (who doesn’t like free?) and the extra preparation doesn’t hurt.
We hope you find the information in this email useful. Remember, the GRE is only one part of a graduate application, so don’t let it stop you from pursuing your graduate school goals. At UC Merced, we are always happy to help answer your questions, connect you with faculty and guide you on your path to grad school!
