How the GRE Score Calculator Works

This tool takes your three GRE scores (Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing) and maps them to ETS percentile data to show you exactly where you rank among all test takers. It also compares your scores against typical admitted student profiles at competitive graduate programs by field.

Percentile data in this tool is based on ETS published score data for the GRE General Test. Percentiles are recalculated every three years using a rolling population of test takers. The percentile for the same raw score can shift slightly between cycles, so always cross-check your official score report from ETS.

Understanding the GRE Score Scale

Verbal Reasoning (130 to 170)

Verbal measures your ability to analyze and evaluate written material, synthesize information, and understand vocabulary in context. The median Verbal score is around 151. Scoring 160 puts you roughly at the 86th percentile. Top humanities and social science programs typically want 160 or higher. Law school applicants who use GRE scores often target 162 or above.

Quantitative Reasoning (130 to 170)

Quant measures basic math skills: arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Despite the name, it does not test advanced calculus or statistics. The median Quant score is around 153. A score of 165 puts you at approximately the 89th percentile. STEM, engineering, and computer science programs commonly want 165 or above.

Analytical Writing (0.0 to 6.0)

AW consists of two timed essay tasks. Scores are given in half-point increments. The mean AW score is around 3.5. A 4.0 is average; 5.0 is strong; 5.5 or 6.0 is exceptional and rare. Many programs use AW as a screening tool to ensure applicants can write at graduate level, rather than using it competitively in admissions.

Table of Truth: GRE Score to Percentile

GRE Score Requirements by Country and Program Type

United States

The GRE is used most extensively by US graduate programs. Requirements vary enormously by field and institution. Competitive programs at MIT, Stanford, and Harvard typically see admitted students averaging 165+ in Quant and 163+ in Verbal. State university programs are often more accessible, with competitive admitted students averaging 155 to 162 across sections. Many programs list the GRE as optional since 2020 but use it to differentiate borderline applications.

Canada

Canadian universities that admit US-style graduate students sometimes require or accept the GRE. The University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC have programs that request GRE scores. Requirements mirror US standards for joint programs or programs affiliated with US accreditation bodies. Many Canadian master’s programs do not require the GRE at all.

United Kingdom

UK universities generally do not require the GRE for postgraduate admission. Exceptions include some master’s programs at LSE, Imperial College London, and Oxford’s Blavatnik School that explicitly list GRE scores as accepted or preferred evidence of academic ability, particularly for applicants from US undergraduate institutions. If you already have GRE scores, sending them can only help at these institutions.

Australia and New Zealand

GRE scores are rarely required by Australian or New Zealand universities. Some joint PhD programs with US institutions may request them, and a handful of MBA programs at institutions such as the Australian Graduate School of Management accept GRE in lieu of GMAT. Outside of these cases, standard admission is based on prior academic results and IELTS or PTE English scores.

Common GRE Mistakes

Mistake 1: Assuming higher Quant automatically beats lower Verbal. Programs weight sections differently. A humanities program that requires GRE cares far more about Verbal than Quant. A computer science program cares almost exclusively about Quant. Know what your target program weights before you decide whether to retake.

Mistake 2: Ignoring the AW score. Many applicants focus entirely on V and Q and neglect writing preparation. An AW score below 3.5 can raise flags, especially for programs that require thesis writing or significant academic output. A 4.0 or above keeps you safe at almost any program.

Mistake 3: Confusing percentile with raw score. A 160 in Verbal is not the same as a 160 in Quant when it comes to selectivity. The percentile is what matters for comparison, not the raw number. A 160 Verbal (86th percentile) is more impressive than a 160 Quant (76th percentile) simply because fewer people score that high in Verbal.

Mistake 4: Not checking if the program still requires GRE. Many programs went GRE-optional during the pandemic and have not returned to requiring it. Check the specific program’s current admissions page before booking a test. You may not need it at all.

Mistake 5: Sending scores to too many programs or too few. ETS gives you four free score sends at the time of testing. After that, each send costs $35. Decide your target programs before test day and use your free sends wisely. Do not send to schools where your scores are well below the median admitted student.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good GRE score for PhD programs?

It depends on the field. For STEM PhD programs, a Quant score of 165 or above is generally competitive. For humanities PhD programs, Verbal 163 or above matters most. For social science PhD programs, both scores matter roughly equally, with most competitive applicants scoring 158 or above in both sections. An AW of 4.5 or above is helpful for any research-intensive program.

How many times can I take the GRE?

You can take the GRE up to five times in a 12-month period, with at least 21 days between attempts. ETS allows you to use ScoreSelect to choose which scores you send. Most programs that see multiple attempts will look at your best sitting, though some consider all attempts. There is no penalty for retaking.

How long are GRE scores valid?

GRE scores are valid for five years from your test date. This is longer than TOEFL (2 years), IELTS (2 years), and PTE (2 years), making GRE scores more useful for applicants who test early in their undergraduate career.

Is GRE harder than GMAT?

The tests measure different things and suit different people. GRE Quant is generally considered easier than GMAT Quant. GRE Verbal involves more vocabulary and reading analysis; GMAT Verbal focuses more on critical reasoning and sentence correction. For business school applicants who are weighing both tests, try a practice version of each and see which format suits your strengths.

Can I use my GRE score for an MBA program?

Yes. Almost all top MBA programs now accept GRE in place of GMAT. Harvard Business School, Wharton, Stanford GSB, LBS, and most other elite business schools explicitly accept GRE. If you are applying to both MBA and non-MBA graduate programs, taking the GRE makes practical sense as a single test that works for all of them.

Percentile data is based on ETS published GRE score tables and is updated periodically. Benchmark scores for programs are approximate and drawn from publicly available program data. Always check directly with your target program for their current requirements and admitted student profiles. SabiCalculator is not affiliated with ETS or any university.