About the GRE® Subject Tests

Tuesday, June 14, 2011, 8:12
GRE, Test Prep
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What Are the Subject Tests?

Show what you know about a specific subject and graduate schools will take notice. The GRE Subject Tests can help you stand out from other applicants by emphasizing your knowledge and skill level in a specific area. If you’re majoring in one of these subjects, you might want to take a Subject Test in addition to the GRE General Test. Subject Tests may not be required by schools, but they’re a great way to distinguish yourself and show you’re serious about your studies and your future.

Each Subject Test is intended for students who have extensive background in one of these eight disciplines:

Who Takes Them and Why?

Prospective graduate school applicants take the Subject Tests. GRE scores are used by admissions or fellowship panels to supplement undergraduate records, letters of recommendation and other qualifications for graduate study.

The scores provide common measures for comparing the qualifications of applicants and aid in the evaluation of grades and recommendations. Some Subject Tests yield subscores that can indicate the strengths and weaknesses in an individual student’s preparation and may also be useful for guidance and placement purposes.

Where Do People Take Them?

The Subject Tests are given at paper-based test centers worldwide three times a year, in:

October
November
April

Who Accepts Them?

GRE Subject Test scores are accepted by thousands of graduate schools, including individual departments or divisions within these schools. Although the scores may not be a requirement for admission to a particular program, admissions committees are likely to consider the scores if they are submitted. It’s best to contact the admissions office or department you’re interested in and see exactly what they’re looking for.