Bouncing Back from a Disappointing GRE Score
If you’re a grad school hopeful looking to boost your GRE score, take heart—many have been in your shoes and succeeded, experts say. “This is the one part of your application that can transform completely between now and your application deadline,” notes Dennis Yim, academic director at Kaplan Test Prep, where he coaches GRE and GMAT test-takers. Below are 10 strategies to either raise your score or make up for a weaker one.
Don’t let a single bad test day label you.
Sometimes, applicants assume they’re just not cut out for the GRE because their first attempt didn’t go well. But that’s rarely the case—many sell themselves short. Jennifer Winward, founder of Winward Academy, told U.S. News in 2019 that struggling test-takers should pinpoint past mistakes and develop strategies to avoid repeating them.
Dedicate yourself to serious prep.
Sometimes, the secret to a higher score is simply putting in more time and effort. Experts agree that acing the GRE usually requires extra work, but the payoff is worth it. “If you put in the effort and stick to the plan, you can reach your goal,” Yim says.
Brush up on high school math.
A common reason for low GRE scores? Test-takers forget basic math concepts—especially geometry, which the exam heavily focuses on. “The questions might seem tricky, but you’ve already learned this math in school,” Christopher K. Lee, founder of career consulting firm Purpose Redeemed, told U.S. News in 2019. “You just need a refresher. On the other hand, improving verbal scores is tougher since grammar isn’t something you can master overnight.”
Read more—widely.
For some, a low GRE score stems from language barriers or a limited vocabulary. “As an international student, I found the best way to boost reading skills for the GRE was by reading extensively in English,” wrote U.S. News contributor Yao Lu in 2014. “That means not just textbooks and academic papers, but also news articles, magazines, and even celebrity gossip sites.”
Take plenty of practice tests.
Experts stress the importance of running through multiple GRE practice exams before the real thing. “The goal is to eliminate surprises on test day,” Yim told U.S. News in 2019. The GRE’s adaptive format can be daunting for first-timers, making advance practice even more crucial.
Use free prep resources.
Skipping the free GRE prep materials from ETS (the nonprofit behind the exam) is a mistake, experts say. Their website offers practice tests, sample questions, and a 100-page math concept guide. Khan Academy also provides free lessons on GRE-tested math skills.
Think about a prep class or tutor.
If self-studying isn’t your strength, a structured course or tutor might keep you on track. “Over time, people figure out how they learn best,” Dave Killoran, CEO of PowerScore Test Preparation, told U.S. News in 2014.
Make the most of ScoreSelect.
The GRE’s ScoreSelect option lets you choose which scores to send to schools. “It gives you the freedom to aim for your highest possible score,” Yim says. Before this feature, applicants worried about low scores permanently affecting their record—now, that stress is avoidable.
Pick your schools strategically.
If the GRE is a struggle, focus on programs that don’t automatically reject based on scores. “Most admissions committees review applications holistically,” wrote Don Martin, a former grad admissions dean, in 2013. “They’re looking for both academic and interpersonal skills needed to thrive in grad school.”
Strengthen the rest of your application.
Remember: the GRE is just one piece of the puzzle. If your score isn’t stellar, invest extra time in your essays—or take a grad-level course and ace it to impress admissions. Traits like resilience, people skills, and diligence also matter, Martin adds.
More GRE Prep Tips
Looking for extra help? Explore strategies to crush the GRE and grad school applications. Check out our Best Graduate Schools rankings and follow U.S. News Education on Twitter and Facebook.
How to Handle a Low GRE Score
- Don’t let one bad test day define you.
- Commit to serious test prep.
- Restore your high school math skills.
- Do more reading.
- Take multiple practice exams.
- Use free test prep resources.
- Consider a GRE class or tutor.
- Capitalize on the ScoreSelect option.
- Choose your target schools wisely.
- Polish other parts of your application.