The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardised test required for admission to many graduate programs (MS, PhD, or MBA) in the USA, Canada, Europe, and other countries. If you’re a Bangladeshi student planning to study abroad, a strong GRE score can significantly boost your chances of getting into top universities.
1. Before preparing for the exam, study the exam first
The GRE is mainly divided into three sectors.
1. Analytical Writing (AWA)
Tasks ➤
– Issue Essay (30 min) – Present your perspective on a topic.
– Argument Essay (30 min) – Critique a given argument.
– Scoring: 0–6 (in 0.5 increments).
2. Verbal Reasoning
– Format ➤
– Two sections (20 questions each, 30 min per section).
– Includes text completion, sentence equivalence, and reading comprehension.
– Scoring: 130–170.
3. Quantitative Reasoning
– Format ➤
– Two sections (20 questions each, 35 min per section).
– Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
– Scoring: 130–170.
Experimental/Research Section (Unscored)
– An extra ‘Verbal or Quant’ section (doesn’t count toward your score).
Total duration: ~ 3 hours 45 minutes.
GRE preparation plan from scratch
At first, take a mock test.
– To know your level. Also, it actually shows your strengths and weaknesses. Thus, help us in making a realistic plan.
– Where? Use ETS PowerPrep (Free Official GRE Test) or Manhattan GRE.
Next, Build a Study Schedule (3–6 months recommended)
– Beginners: 4–5 months (if starting from basics).
– Intermediate: 2–3 months (if already strong in English/Math).
– Plan a personalised study schedule. Make a weekly study plan (20–25 hours/week). Keep heavy topics for those times when you can focus the most.
Then, strengthen verbal reasoning
A. Vocabulary (Essential for High Score)
– GRE Word Lists:
– Magoosh GRE Flashcards (Common & Advanced Words).
– Barron’s 1100 Words (Popular in Bangladesh).
– How to Memorise?
– Use Anki Flashcards. (Spaced Repetition).
– Read The Economist, Scientific American.
B. Reading Comprehension
– Practise daily (1–2 passages).
– Focus on:
– Main idea, tone, and inference questions.
– Time management (3–4 mins per question).
C. Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence
– Learn context clues and word roots.
– Practise official ETS questions (most accurate).
Expertise Quantitative Reasoning
A. Key Math Topics to Cover
– Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Number Properties).
– Algebra (Equations, Inequalities, Functions).
– Geometry (Triangles, Circles, Coordinate Geometry).
– Data Analysis (Mean, Median, Probability).
B. Best Strategies
– Avoid careless mistakes (double-check calculations).
– Use scratch paper effectively (organise work).
– Memorise formulas (e.g., area, quadratic equation).
Improve Analytical Writing (AWA)
– Issue Essay:
– Structure : Introduction → 2–3 Body Paragraphs → Conclusion.
– Example Topics: Technology harms social interaction.
– Argument Essay :
– Find logical flaws (assumptions, weak evidence).
– Use templates (e.g., “The argument assumes… but fails to consider…”).
– Practice: Write 2 essays per week and get feedback.
Where to find resources?
Free Resources
– ETS Official Guide (Free PDFs & Practice Tests).
– GRE Prep by Magoosh (YouTube & Blog).
– Khan Academy (Math Refresher).
Paid books & courses
– Books:
– Official GRE Super Power Pack (ETS).
– Manhattan Prep 5 lb. GRE Book (Great for Quant).
– Barron’s GRE (Good for Verbal).
– Online Courses:
– Magoosh GRE (affordable, self-paced).
– GregMat ($5/month – Popular for Verbal).
Coaching centres in Bangladesh.
– Mentors’ Education (Dhaka, Online).
– Intelligent (Gulshan, Dhaka).
– Ace Consultants (For GRE & Admissions).
Exam Day Tips for Bangladeshi Students
✅ Before the Test:
Test Centre: Usually Dhaka, Chittagong (IDP/British Council).
– Documents Needed : Passport (mandatory).
– Dress comfortably (test centres can be cold).
✅During the Test:
– Skip & Return (Don’t waste time on difficult questions).
– Use the process of elimination (verbal section).
– Double-Check Quant Answers (Avoid silly mistakes).
✅ After the Test:
– Unofficial Scores : Shown right after the test (verbal + quant).
– Official Scores : Available in 10–15 days.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring AWA. (Many students focus only on verbal/quant.).
- Cramming vocabulary last minute (start early!).
- Not Taking Full-Length Tests (Timing is crucial).
Last but not least, learn at your pace. It’s an exam and the competitor is you. Perseverance, strategies and having a check on your nerves are the keys to getting a decent score on the GRE. Let’s start the hustle.