For any student aspiring for a Master's or doctoral degree, the prospect of examinations is not overly frightening. If it was so, then he/she would not aspire for another degree. The GRE or the Graduate Record Examination, however, is a test which can turn out to be daunting even for the most brilliant student. This is not because the test itself is very difficult. On the contrary, it is competitive and should be looked upon by the student as an opportunity to prove his/ her mettle. Additionally, it will better the student's chances for the prized assistantship and other financial aid. It is crucial to remember that academic ability and intellectual caliber is the crucial factor in this test, as it is taken for ascertaining suitability for further study and knowledge enhancement. Three months of preparation are usually deemed enough to guarantee a satisfactory score in the three sections of a general GRE which evaluate the verbal, mathematical and analytical competence of a candidate. There is also a subject-specific GRE also, which is required for eight subjects in some universities. The significant difference which marks this test as unique and of vital significance for the student seeking admission in higher education abroad is the fact that the academically, this test is looked upon as an accurate indicator of the candidate's caliber. The increasingly number of higher education seekers are continuously pushing up the minimum scores deemed acceptable. These currently are in the range of 1400-1500 for the better universities and colleges. The adaptive nature of the test provides solace in the sense that it will adapt itself to the candidate's level of knowledge and the difficulty levels will be consummate with his ability. The advantage of the GRE is to compliment the student's other educational records and achievements. It provides a common comparative ground on which the college or university can evaluate the large pool of applicants. The GRE should be taken in the spirit of competition and as a definite indicator of one's intellectual acumen. It is imperative for the student to attempt it with as much seriousness as a final examination, if not more. The score will not only secure you admission, but will be a reference point for your entire career. So make it count.
