GRE Test Preparation Video Guide

Master Your GRE Preparation with This Complete Video Guide

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is accepted by most top MBA programs and offers flexibility for test-takers. This comprehensive video guide walks you through everything you need to know about GRE setup, registration, and preparation strategies.

What This Video Covers

Registration & Setup

Creating your ETS account
Selecting test dates and centers
At-home testing requirements
Accommodation requests

Test Day Preparation

What to bring to the test center
Check-in procedures
Test interface walkthrough
Break timing strategies

GRE Test Structure

Section	Questions	Time	Score Range
Analytical Writing	2 essays	60 minutes (30 each)	0-6
Verbal Reasoning	40 questions	60 minutes (2 sections)	130-170
Quantitative Reasoning	40 questions	70 minutes (2 sections)	130-170
Experimental Section	20 questions	30-35 minutes	Not scored

Key Registration Steps

1. Create Your ETS Account

Visit ets.org/gre and create a new account
Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your ID
Select your preferred communication language
Verify your email address

2. Choose Test Format

Test Center: Traditional proctored environment
GRE at Home: Online proctored from your computer
Consider your internet connection and testing environment
Both formats have identical content and scoring

3. Select Test Date & Location

Book at least 2-3 months before application deadlines
Consider retake possibilities (21-day wait period)
Check test center availability in your area
Pay the $220 registration fee

GRE Preparation Timeline

12-16 Weeks Before Test:

Take a diagnostic test to establish baseline
Create a study schedule (2-3 hours daily)
Gather prep materials (Official Guide, practice tests)
Focus on fundamental concepts

8-12 Weeks Before Test:

Complete content review for all sections
Begin timed practice sections
Build vocabulary systematically
Master calculator functions

4-8 Weeks Before Test:

Take full-length practice tests weekly
Analyze mistakes and weak areas
Refine timing strategies
Practice essay templates

Final 4 Weeks:

Take 2-3 practice tests under real conditions
Focus on weak areas identified
Maintain consistent sleep schedule
Review test day procedures

Essential Preparation Resources

Official Materials

ETS Official GRE Guide
PowerPrep Online (2 free tests)
PowerPrep Plus (3 paid tests)
Official Verbal & Quant Reasoning Books
ScoreItNow! Essay Practice

Test Day Essentials

Valid photo ID
Test confirmation email
Comfortable layered clothing
Water and snacks for breaks
No personal calculator (provided on-screen)

GRE At-Home Testing Requirements

Technical Requirements:

Desktop or laptop (no tablets or mobile devices)
Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.13+
Chrome or Firefox browser
Functioning webcam and microphone
Stable internet connection

Room Requirements:

Private, well-lit room
Clear desk and surroundings
No prohibited items visible
Closed door during testing
No one else in the room

Score Reporting Strategy

Understanding GRE score reporting is crucial for your MBA applications:

ScoreSelect Option

Choose which scores to send after viewing your unofficial scores on test day

Free Score Reports

Send scores to 4 schools for free on test day or within 21 days

Additional Score Reports

$27 per recipient after the free report period

Score Availability

Official scores available in your ETS account 10-15 days after test

Common GRE Mistakes to Avoid

Underestimating vocabulary: GRE verbal requires extensive vocabulary knowledge
Poor time management: Practice pacing to avoid rushing through sections
Ignoring the essays: AWA scores matter for top MBA programs
Not using scratch paper: Organize your work, especially for quant
Skipping the tutorial: Familiarize yourself with the test interface
Inadequate practice: Take at least 5-6 full-length practice tests