The highest possible GRE score is 340 which a candidate can achieve if he/she scores a perfect 170 in both the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections. The Analytical Writing section is scored separately from 0 to 6. However, it is exceptionally rare to score a perfect 340 in the GRE exam, but is achievable with strong dedication and preparation. In most cases, if candidates are able to achieve 320 GRE scores or above, it is considered to be competitive for top-ranked graduate programs worldwide offered by the top universities in the world. In this article, we will discuss the highest GRE score and how to achieve it.
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Read More: GRE eligibility criteria
GRE full form is Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and it is conducted by the ETS (Educational Testing Service). Candidates take this standardized test to get admissions into different graduate programs at universities across the US, Canada, UK, Europe, etc. The test serves as the gateway to top universities abroad and the main purposes of taking the GRE exam in India include:
Gauging the readiness of candidates for graduate-level
Comparing candidates from different educational backgrounds
Check if the candidates are eligible for scholarships or fellowships
Supporting MBA and specialized master’s applications (many top business schools now accept GRE instead of GMAT)
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These are three sections that the GRE exam consists of:
Section | Question Types | Score Range | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
Verbal Reasoning | Reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, text completion | 130–170 | ~41 minutes |
Quantitative Reasoning | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis | 130–170 | ~47 minutes |
Analytical Writing | Two essays (Issue & Argument tasks) | 0–6 | 60 minutes |
The total duration of the GRE exam is 1 hour 58 minutes.
The test mode of the GRE exam 2025 is computer-based at both the test centre and at home.
The highest GRE score possible is 340, combining the total scores of verbal and quantitative sections.
Only if a candidate is able to score a perfect score (170) in both the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning, he/she can achieve the highest possible GRE score, which is 340. Although securing a perfect GRE score is rare, a few candidates are able to achieve it. As per the data of ETS, only 1% of the candidates worldwide score more than 330, making securing 340 an extraordinary achievement.
Section | Average Score (Approx.) |
Verbal Reasoning | 150 |
Quantitative Reasoning | 153 |
Analytical Writing | 4 |
Total (Combined) | 303 |
Candidates who are able to score more than 320 are placed among the top 10% of the GRE candidates.
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Score Range | Percentile (Approx.) | Performance Level |
330–340 | 97th–99th | Excellent (Top 1%) |
320–329 | 90th–96th | Very Good |
310–319 | 75th–89th | Good |
300–309 | 60th–74th | Average |
Below 300 | Below 60th | Needs Improvement |
The GRE general test happens all throughout the year, both at the test centres and at home. Candidates can book GRE slots as per their preference depending on availability.
October 2025: 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, and 31
November 2025: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, and 28
December 2025: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 30, and 31
October 2025: October 13–26, 2025
April 2026: April 20–May 3, 2026
Month (2026) | GRE Dates (India) |
January | Jan 10, Jan 17, Jan 24 |
February | Feb 7, Feb 14, Feb 21 |
March | Mar 6, Mar 13, Mar 20 |
April | Apr 3, Apr 10, Apr 17 |
May | May 8, May 15, May 22 |
Note: Ensure the GRE registration is done at least 2-3 months before the scheduled GRE exam date.
Achieving a perfect GRE score requires strategic preparation. Here are some effective strategies that can help you attain 340 on the GRE exam.
Visit the official ETS website to find practice tests to understand the different types of questions in the GRE exam.
Focus on building a strong vocabulary to get a perfect GRE score
Pay attention to gain expertise on quantitative concepts like interpretation, algebra, arithmetic
Refer to the official scoring rubrics and review sample essays
Take GRE sample papers and mock tests to be able to manage time effectively
Note down your mistakes and focus on improving weak areas
Aim for at least 2-3 months of focussed preparation for GRE exam dates 2025
University | Average GRE Score Range (Accepted Students) |
325–330+ | |
325–335 | |
328–335 | |
320–330 | |
320–330 | |
315–325 |
Note: If you aim and achieve 320+, you will be competitive enough for most of the top-ranked programs worldwide.
Particulars | Links |
GRE mock test online free | |
GRE sample test paper with answers |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, a GRE score of 320 is considered to be a good GRE score, as candidates scoring this are placed among the top 10% of the overall candidates worldwide taking the test. It is competitive for top-ranked universities, however, it depends on the specific requirements of the program.
The score percentiles for verbal and quant are not the same. In verbal, if a candidate scores 169 or 170, both will be 99th percentile scores which is the top 1%. However, for quant, a perfect score of 170 is 97th GRE percentile.
The highest GRE score possible is 340, with the combined scores of verbal and quant ranging from 260 to 340.
On Question asked by student community
Hello,
It depends on the university you are applying to. Most German universities do not require GATE for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the GRE , especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.
You should check the specific admission requirements
GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, and GMAT are standardized tests often required for admission to universities abroad, but they serve different purposes. The **GRE** (Graduate Record Examination) is used for admission to graduate programs and some business schools, focusing on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The **TOEFL** (Test of English
Hello aspirant,
Those who wish to pursue postsecondary education, specifically a Master's degree, specialised Master's programme, MBA, or PhD, are eligible to take the GRE. You must show up for the GRE general exam. Use the following link to get the comprehensive exam details:
https://studyabroad.careers360.com/exams/gre
Thank you
Hope this information
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Yes, pursuing an M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) through the GRE is possible. Many universities, especially in the US, accept GRE scores for admission into their master's programs in CSE. Strong GRE scores, along with a solid academic record, relevant work experience, and a compelling statement of purpose,
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