Study Abroad with Confidence: GRE Prep Tips for a Top Score

Is pursuing a master’s degree your ambition? And if yes, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is bound to be one of the requirements. It is one of the accepted examination tests used by most universities. From the USA, Canada, Europe, and even extending to some countries in Asia, thousands of universities recognize it. Scoring high on the GRE can greatly increase your chances of getting into some of the best universities abroad and may also provide you with scholarships and assistantships which help ease your finances.

Whether you are on your way starting your GRE preparation or are looking for a definitive strategy to perfect your approach to the test, this blog will guide you on how to approach the exam by understanding its structure, crafting a bespoke study plan, and mastering every section with confidence. 

What Is The GRE? 

The GRE test aims to measure specific skills such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing. This test is conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is important for applying to graduate schools, business and even some law schools around the globe. 

If you are planning to study abroad, then the good news is that a solid high GRE score helps validate the credibility of your application and showcases that you are ready for rigorous academic work.

Step-by-Step GRE Preparation Guide  

Plans for studying the GRE effectively can be realized even when starting from zero with the following steps.  

Step 1: Identify Your Target GRE Score  

Every program has different requirements. Top STEM programs often expect:  

• Quantitative Reasoning: 160–170  
• Verbal Reasoning: 155–165 (higher for humanities and business)  
• Analytical Writing (AWA): 4.0 or above  

Tip: Check the average GRE scores of admitted students at your target universities. This helps you set realistic goals and tailor your prep accordingly.  

Step 2: Take a Diagnostic GRE Practice Test  

Before diving into study materials consider taking a no cost GRE mock test:  

• Familiarise yourself with the GRE test format  
• Discover strengths and weaknesses  
• Understand your starting point  

This first test helps you design a prep plan that addresses your priorities rather than going through a one-size-fits-all approach.

Step 3: Develop Your GRE Study Schedule

Having no plan can easily lead to feeling overwhelmed. Set aside time for the GRE using: 

• Your diagnostic test results should show where you need the most practice, so prioritize those sections. 
• Steady practice (even 30-45 minutes each day makes a difference) is invaluable. 
• Regular reviews are a great way to assess and gauge improvement, so make them a weekly routine.
• Incorporate timed and full length GRE practice tests into your study plan on a bi-weekly basis. 

Remember: Consistency is crucial. Frequent shorter sessions are more effective than occasional long sessions.

Section-Wise GRE Preparation Tips

Let’s look into some strategies for each section of the test.

Verbal Reasoning: 

The GRE Verbal section tests more than your vocabulary; it gauges your comprehension and analytical skills concerning the written word.

Question Types:

• Reading Comprehension
• Text Completion
• Sentence Equivalence

Preparation Tips:

• Review scholarly publications such as editorials and articles every day
• Use contextual learning instead of rote memorization of vocabulary
• Practice determining the author’s thesis alongside the logical flow of the sentences
• Practice identifying transition words such as but, although, and therefore and how ideas are connected

Pro Tip: Maintain a vocabulary diary where you record terms, their definitions, and sentences illustrating them. Review your notes weekly.

Quantitative Reasoning: 

Though many students struggle with the Quant section, it is focused on reasoning techniques rather than intricate calculations.  

Topics:

• Algebra, Geometry and Arithmetic 
• Interpretation of data from charts and tables
• Word Problems

Preparation Tips:  

• Review basic math skills learned in high school: percent, ratio, fraction
• Achieve accuracy first. Do not focus on speed  
• Take timed GRE quizzes as this will prepare you for the actual test  
• Maintain an error log, analyze your mistakes on a weekly basis so that you learn not to repeat them  
• Calculator restrictions: make sure to learn certain methodologies and rules to save computation time when needed

Analytical Writing (AWA): 

The AWA evaluates your ability to make and defend arguments. 

Two Tasks: 

• Analyze An Issue
• Analyze An Argument 

Preparation Tips: 

• Stick to a logical framework: intro, body (2 to 3 paragraphs), and conclusion. 
• Work with official ETS GRE prompts. 
• Concentrate on the argument construction instead of word choice.
• Set aside a minute or so to proofread for grammar and clarity. 

Pro Tip: Build your confidence by writing two essays in 60 minutes, practicing under pressure. 

Time Management on GRE Test Day 

Your greatest hurdle during the GRE will be time. Consider these pointers: 

• Don't linger on questions: spending more than one minute will not yield results. 
• Single out answers using a process of elimination. 
• Save these for later: don’t dwell on them unless there’s time later on. 

Tip: Build your stamina by doing untimed, full-length mock GRE exams.

Need a bit of organization, motivation, or expert support to get GRE-ready? You're not alone—and that's exactly where our live GRE prep batches come in.

At ACHIVIA, we believe that with the proper guidance, every student can succeed. Our GRE test prep program is designed to help you stay consistent, clear your doubts, and score with confidence.

What You'll Get:

• Regular practice sets to strengthen your accuracy and timing
• Section-wise strategies to help you master both Verbal and Quant
• Full-length mock tests with in-depth performance analysis
• Live AWA writing sessions with proven templates and honest feedback
• In-class doubt-solving sessions, so your questions never go unanswered
• Personalized study plans to suit your timeline and target score
• Test-taking techniques for time management, elimination, and pacing
• 1-on-1 mentorship and guidance from experienced GRE trainers
• Post-GRE admission support for shortlisting universities and building your profile

As one of the leading overseas education consultancies, we at ACHIVIA are committed to helping you take the right steps toward a bright and global future. Contact us today for a free demo session, and let us kickstart your GRE journey—together!