The GRE is a computerized test taken at a local testing center. Other test-takers may also be there, working on the GRE or a different exam, but you’ll be in a booth, immersed in your own test. Lasting up to four hours, the GRE is a marathon, challenging your stamina as well as your skills. The following table outlines the sections of the GRE, including the number of questions and time limits of each. The essays are always first, but the other sections can be in any order.
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|
| Analyze an Issue | 1 essay | 30 minutes |
| Analyze an Argument | 1 essay | 30 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 questions | 30 minutes |
| Break | — | 10 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 20 questions | 35 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 questions | 30 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 20 questions | 35 minutes |
| Unscored Verbal or Quantitative Reasoning | 20 questions | 30 or 35 minutes |
| Possible Unscored Research Section | 20 questions | 30 or 35 minutes |
| Total testing time | About 4 hours |