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GRE Subject Test: Registration process, Subject-wise Syllabus, and Scores

OverviewGRE Subject Test▾Application Process▾Preparation▾Score▾Sample Papers▾Cutoff▾News

Content Curator | Updated On - Apr 24, 2024

Wondering about which subject test to take for GRE? GRE subject tests are made to measure your knowledge and skill level in a particular subject. They are intended for those who have an undergraduate major or an extensive background in physics, mathematics, or psychology. GRE subject tests are used by the admission panel of the university to supplement your undergraduate records, recommendation letters, and other graduate-level study. Do you know about the recent changes made in the GRE subject test? GRE subject test has been shifted to the computer-delivered format. GRE exam subject tests now will be offered in more locations. In addition to that, physics and psychology tests will be reduced to 2 hours.

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Want to know more about the test content? The duration of the test for Mathematics is 2 hours and 50 minutes. There are no separate times sections. GRE mathematics subject test contains 66 questions which are taken mostly from the undergraduate level. Almost 50% of the questions come from calculus and their application. GRE maths subject exam consists of three areas that are covered - calculus, algebra, and additional topics. GRE physics test consists of 70-75 choice-based questions. The areas covered in GRE physics are classical mechanics, electromagnetism, optics and wave phenomena, quantum mechanics, special relativity, etc. For GRE psychology, you need to attempt 144 multiple-choice questions. You need to prepare for Biological, cognitive, social, and clinical psychology. GRE subject test is different from GRE general test as the latter measures your verbal, quantitative, and analytical abilities.

Is it a must to write the GRE subject test if I clear the GRE general test? GRE subject test may not be really necessary for MS or PhD admissions. However, you can contact the admissions offices of colleges you are interested in. But GRE subject test can be an extra qualification for you. GRE subject score, if good, can set your profile to stand out from others. If you're majoring in — or have extensive background in — a specific area, you might want to take a Subject Test in addition to the GRE revised General Test. But, GRE Subject Tests are a great way to distinguish yourself. What about the GRE subject test scores? Graduate record examinations subject test GRE scores range from 200 to 990 scale, in 10-point increments. For physics and psychology tests scores are reported on a 0-100 score scale, in 1 -point increments.

Table of Content

Test Exam Pattern
Subject Test Syllabus
2.1 Maths Syllabus
2.2 Physics Syllabus
2.3 Psychology Syllabus
Subject Test Registration
3.1 Registration Process
3.2 Subject Test Dates
Good GRE Subject Test Score
Score Validity
5.1 How Many Times Subject Test Can Be Attempted
Preparation Tips
6.1 Study Resources
FAQs

GRE Subject Test Exam Pattern

GRE exam subjects are conducted for a duration of 2 hours for GRE physics and GRE psychology exam. For GRE mathematics the time duration is 2 hours and 50 minutes. Students can appear for GRE in paper based mode or computer based. Earlier GRE chemistry was also available but ETS has recently discontinued Chemistry. Following chart shows the GRE Subject test exam pattern:

GRE Subject Test Syllabus

The syllabus for GRE Subject test includes different topics for different subjects. GRE subjects for Ms include math, Psychology and physics. GRE subject test computer science, GRE english syllabus, GRE biology and GRE in economics all have been discontinued by ETS. The syllabus for GRE subject Test and GRE quantitative reasoning syllabus can be downloaded from the official website of ETS. Following is the syllabus for different subjects of GRE Subject test:

GRE Maths Syllabus

There are a total 66 GRE maths questions in the form of multiple choice questions. GRE Mathematics include three main topics of Calculus, Algebra and geometry along with a few additional topics. The table given below provide the topics included in the GRE math subject test:

Category	Syllabus
Algebra	Linear algebra, Matrix algebra Systems of linear equations Vector spaces, Linear transformations Characteristic polynomials, and eigenvalues and eigenvectors Abstract algebra and number theory Group theory, Theory of rings Elementary algebra basic algebraic techniques and manipulations Modules, field theory, and number theory
Calculus	Differential and integral calculus of one and of several variables Calculus-based applications and connections with coordinate geometry Trigonometry Differential equations
Additional Topics	Introductory real analysis Sequences and series of numbers and functions Continuity, differentiability and integrability Elementary topology of R and R Discrete mathematics: logic, set theory Combinatorics, graph theory, and algorithms General topology, Geometry, complex variables, Probability and statistics Numerical analysis

GRE Physics Syllabus

GRE physics question papers include 100 multiple choice questions with 5 different choice options.For begininng your physics preparation, you can consider enrolling in GRE coaching classes in India that pffers comprehensive mock tests and study materials. The questions have to be solved in 2 hours. The major topics of physics and concepts have been given in the table below:

Category	Syllabus
Specialized Topics	Miscellaneous, astrophysics, mathematical methods, computer applications. Nuclear and Particle physics, Nuclear properties Radioactive decay, Fission and fusion, reactions Fundamental properties of elementary particles semiconductors, superconductors Condensed Matter, crystal structure, x-ray diffraction, thermal properties, electron theory of metals,
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics	The laws of thermodynamics, Thermodynamic processes Equations of state, Ideal gases Kinetic theory, Ensembles Statistical concepts and calculation of thermodynamic quantities Thermal expansion and heat transfer
Electromagnetism	Electrostatics, Currents and DC circuits Magnetic fields in free space Lorentz force, Induction Maxwell’s equations and their applications Electromagnetic waves, AC circuits, magnetic and electric fields in matter
Laboratory Methods	Data and error analysis, Electronics, Instrumentation, Radiation detection Counting statistics, Dimensional analysis Interaction of charged particles with matter, lasers and optical interferometers Fundamental applications of probability and statistics
Atomic Physics	Properties of electrons, Bohr model, Energy quantization Atomic structure, Atomic spectra, Selection rules Black-body radiation X-rays, atoms in electric and magnetic fields
Optics and Wave phenomena	Wave properties, Superposition, interference, Diffraction Geometrical optics, Polarization, Doppler effect
Classical Mechanics	Kinematics, Newton’s laws, Work and energy, Oscillatory motion Rotational motion about a fixed axis Dynamics of systems of particles Central forces and celestial mechanics, Three-dimensional particle dynamics Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalism Non-inertial reference frames Elementary topics in fluid dynamics
Special Relativity	Time dilation, Length contraction Simultaneity, energy and momentum Four-vectors and Lorentz transformation, Velocity addition
Quantum Mechanics	Fundamental concepts, Solutions of the Schrödinger equation Square wells, Harmonic oscillators and hydrogenic atom Spin, angular momentum, Wave function symmetry, Elementary perturbation theory

GRE Psychology Syllabus

GRE Psychology Syllabus contains a total 205 multiple choice questions. To start you Psychology prepration for GRE subject test,setting a target GRE preparation time is very necessary. The questions include topics of cognitive, developmental, social, biology etc Psychology topics. Following table provide detailed syllabus for GRE Subject test psychology:

Category	Syllabus
Developmental	Perception and Cognition, Language Learning, Intelligence, Social, Personality, Emotion Nature-Nurture Physical and Motor Socialization, Family and Cultural Theories, Applications and Issues
Cognitive	Learning Classical Conditioning, Instrumental Conditioning, Observational Learning, Modeling Theories, Applications and Issues Language Phonemes, morphemes, phrases Syntax, Meaning,, Speech Perception and Processing, Reading Processes Verbal and Nonverbal Communication, Bilingualism Theories, Applications and Issues Memory Working Memory, Long-term Memory, Types of Memory, Memory Systems and Processes Theories, Applications and Issues Thinking Representation, Categorization, Imagery, Schemas, Scripts Problem Solving, Judgment and Decision-Making Processes Planning, Metacognition, Intelligence Theories, Applications and Issues
Biological	Sensation and Perception Psychophysics, Signal Detection Attention, Perceptual Organization, Vision Audition, Gustation, Olfaction, Somatosenses Vestibular and Kinesthetic Senses Theories, Applications and Issues Physiological/Behavioral Neuroscience Neurons, Sensory Structures and Processes, Motor Structures and Functions Central Structures and Processes Motivation, Arousal, Emotion Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuromodulators and Drugs, Hormonal Factors Comparative and Ethology, States of Consciousness, Theories, Applications and Issues
Measurement, methodology and other	General History, Industrial-Organizational, Educational Measurement and Methodology Psychometrics, Test Construction, Reliability, Validity Research Designs, Statistical Procedures, Scientific Method and the Evaluation of Evidence Ethics and Legal Issues Analysis and Interpretation of Findings
Clinical	Personality Theories, Structure, Assessment, Personality and Behavior Applications and Issues Clinical and Abnormal Stress, Conflict, Coping Diagnostic Systems, Assessment Causes and Development of Disorders, Neurophysiological Factors Treatment of Disorders, Epidemiology, Prevention, Health Psychology Cultural or Gender Issues Theories, Applications and Issues
Social	Social Perception, Cognition, Attribution, Beliefs Attitudes, and Behavior, Social Comparison, Self, Emotion, Affect, and Motivation Conformity, Influence, and Persuasion Interpersonal Attraction and Close Relationships Group and Intergroup Processes, Cultural or Gender Influences Evolutionary Psychology, Altruism and Aggression, Theories, Applications and Issues

GRE Subject Test Registration

Registration process for GRE Subject test is the same as that of GRE General test. ETS conducts GRE Subject test three times in a year: April, September and October. In India, GRE Subject test is conducted in the month of October. Earlier, students have to appear for GRE Subject test from a nearby test center through paper based mode. But now students can register for the computer based GRE Subject test. The registration for 2024 GRE Subject test has not been updated yet.

GRE Subject Test Registration Process

Students can follow the following given steps to register for GRE Subject test for any domain subjects:

Visit the official ETS GRE Website and create an account
Register for GRE Subject test by filling and submitting the application form.
Select the GRE Test date and nearby test center.
Pay the application fees and submit.
Candidates will receive a message for the registration confirmation.

GRE Subject Test Dates

GRE Subject test is conducted on different dates and thrice in a year. Students can appear for one particular subject on a single date. You must choose your nearest GRE exam centres to avoid being late on the test day. Following table provide dates for GRE Subject Test 2024:

Exam	Dates
GRE Subject Test 1	September 25,2023 to October 8,2023
GRE Subject Test 2	October 24,2023 to November 6,2023
GRE Subject Test 3	April 7,2024 to April 20,2024

What is a Good GRE Subject Test Score?

GRE subject test scores range from 200 to 990 for each domain subject. Students can only appear for one subject on a single date. The average score for GRE subject test mathematics is 664. The average GRE physics score is 714 and for psychology it is 619. You can use the GRE score calculator your raw score to percentile which will help you to assess your preparation. Students scoring above this average score are considered to be eligible for admission. A score of 600 or above is considered a good GRE subject test score.

GRE Subject Test Score Validity

GRE subject test and GRE general test have the same score validity of 5 years. The validity of GRE scores is counted from the day of examination and not from the day of result. GRE subject test scores are released on the official website of ETS and students are notified through mail. GRE subject test results are generally declared within 5 weeks after appearing for GRE subject exam.

How Many Times GRE Subject Test Can be Attempted?

GRE subject test is required by some universities for domain specific courses. Students can submit GRE subject test scores directly from ETS website to the university application. In case of expiration of scores, students will have to reappear for GRE subject test. Students can appear for GRE Subject tests after a 14 days gap between two consecutive exams. To avoid taking the test multiple times, you must have have an organised GRE study plan for the preparation.

GRE Subject Test Preparation Tips

Students must try to achieve more than 600-650 GRE Subject test scores to secure chances of admission. There are a number of tips and strategies which help students to score high in GRE Subject Test. Following are a few tips which help students to prepare for GRE Subject Test:

Be aware about the GRE Subject test pattern and syllabus.
Enroll into online subject specific courses and certificate programs.
Make notes for the topics.
Take help from subject specific GRE books
Revise the topics which are difficult to learn and memorize.
Increase speed in solving and interpreting answers.
Study according to a well structured study plan.
Practice and solve mock tests

GRE Subject Test Study Resources

Students can take help from online available study resources including GRE maths practice test, mock tests, books and more. These resources help candidates to GRE score high and provide an understanding of the concepts. Following table provide most recommended books for GRE subject test:

GRE Subject Test	Books
GRE Physics Book	Conquering the Physics GRE by Adam Anderson GRE Physics Practice Questions by Sterling Test Prep GRE Physics Test by Hasan Postgraduate Entrance Exam Physics
GRE Mathematics Book	GRE Math Workbook GRE math Strategies by Manhattan The GRE Math Prep Book by Robert Gerver Math workout for the New GRE
GRE Psychology Book	GRE Psychology Prep by Princeton Review GRE Subject Test Psychology by Kaplan GRE Psychology by Barron's The Ultimate Psychology GRE

GRE in English and many other subjects were discontinued by ETS due to the less effective approach of such subjects. GRE CS syllabus can be viewed from ETS Official website. Students can prepare for GRE from online available study materials and books. Students can register for GRE from July 2023 and select preferred test centers from the list of test centers available.

FAQS

Ques. What is the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. The GRE Subject Test is an exam administered by the Educational Testing Service that measures a student's knowledge in specific subject areas. It's used by graduate schools and departments to assess applicants' readiness for advanced study in those subjects.

Ques. Which subjects are covered by the GRE Subject Tests?

Ans. The GRE Subject Tests cover a range of subjects including Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.

Ques. How many GRE Subject Tests are there?

Ans. There are currently three GRE Subject Tests: Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.

Ques. Who should take the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. Students who are applying to graduate programs that require or recommend GRE Subject Test scores should consider taking the test. It's particularly common for applicants to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

Ques. How is the GRE Subject Test different from the GRE General Test?

Ans. The GRE General Test assesses general verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, whereas the GRE Subject Test focuses on specific subject knowledge.

Ques. What is the format of the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. The format varies slightly depending on the subject, but typically consists of multiple-choice questions. The test duration and number of questions also vary by subject.

Ques. When are the GRE Subject Tests offered?

Ans. GRE Subject Tests are administered on specific dates throughout the year. It's important to check the ETS website for the most up-to-date information on test dates and registration deadlines.

Ques. How long is the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. the duration depends on the subject. For Mathematics, the duration is 2 hours and 50 minutes, whereas, for physics and psychology, it is 2 hours.

Ques. How is the GRE Subject Test scored?

Ans. The GRE Subject Test scores range from 200 to 990, in 10-point increments. The scoring varies depending on the subject, and it's important to note that there is no penalty for incorrect answers.

Ques. How should I prepare for the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. Preparation strategies vary by individual but generally include reviewing relevant course materials, taking practice tests, and familiarizing oneself with the test format and question types.

Ques. Are calculators allowed on the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. Calculators are generally not allowed on the GRE Subject Tests. However, some subjects may allow specific types of calculators. It's important to check the guidelines provided by ETS for each subject.

Ques. Can I take multiple GRE Subject Tests on the same day?

Ans. No, you can only take one GRE Subject Test per testing day.

Ques. How long are GRE Subject Test scores valid?

Ans. GRE Subject Test scores are valid for five years from the date of the test.

Ques. Can I retake the GRE Subject Test?

Ans. You can retake the GRE Subject Test if you feel that your score does not accurately reflect your abilities. However, you must wait at least 21 days before retaking the test.

Ques. Do all graduate programs require GRE Subject Test scores?

Ans. No, not all graduate programs require GRE Subject Test scores. It's important to research the specific requirements of the programs to which you are applying

*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.