What to Expect in the New GRE Test Format
By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | Btech, MBA, Serial Entrepreneur | Study abroad consultants and AI in business specialist| 12 min read | ✓ Verified Expert
Introduction
The GRE new format is making news in 2025. For Indian students, understanding the GRE changes is crucial to their success. The new GRE format features a shorter test, you know, a revised test pattern, and reorganized sections-all designed to make the testing experience more efficient and focused. In this comprehensive guide. We break down every aspect of the GRE’s new format, explain what these changes mean for your preparation, and share actionable strategies to help you ace the test. This is a you know. Must-read for anyone planning to apply to a top university in the US, UK or elsewhere. It will answer all your questions about the new GRE format and help you to be fully prepared for the test day.
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Why is the GRE new format a game-changer for Indian students in 2025?
The GRE’s new format for 2025 is a major change. It reduces the test time by nearly half and focuses on core skills. In India, about 400,000 students take the GRE every year. This is one of the top three countries in the world for taking With the new GRE changes, Indian students can expect a less exhaustive, more targeted assessment, which will make it easier to balance their preparation with other commitments. For those aiming at top universities. Understanding the new test structure and the exam pattern is essential for a successful outcome.
| Feature | GRE Old Format (Pre-2023) | GRE New Format (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Test Duration | 3 hours 45 minutes | 1 hour 58 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 55 |
| Analytical Writing Tasks | 2 (Issue + Argument) | 1 (Issue only) |
| Scheduled Break | 10 minutes | None |
| Unscored/Experimental Section | Yes | No |
| Test Delivery | Computer-based & Paper-based | Computer-based only |
What are the key GRE changes in the 2025 exam pattern?
The new format of the GRE introduces several changes that directly affect your preparation and test-taking strategy. The most important changes in the GRE.
- Shorter Duration: The test now lasts just under two hours, instead of nearly four hours.
- Fewer Questions: There are only 55 questions and every answer counts for a higher mark.
- Single Analytical Writing Task: One essay (‘Analysis of a Problem’) instead of two.
- No Experimental Section: Every question now counts towards your final mark.
- Section-Level Adaptivity: Look, both the verbal and the numerical sections adapt to your performance.
- Computer-Based Only: GRE is now a purely computer-based exam with both a test center and a home-based option available in India.
These changes I mean, mean that you must approach the exam with greater focus and a well-practiced strategy. There is less room for error, and the use of time is more important than ever.
🎯 Important: GRE new format scoring remains unchanged
The GRE exam pattern and test structure have changed, but the scoring system hasn’t. Verbal and Quantitative sections are scored 130-170 and Analytical Writing is scored 0-6. There’s still no negative marking. So, try every question!
🎯 Important: GRE new format is section-adaptive
The new GRE format retains section-level adaptivity for both verbal and quantitative sections. The difficulty of the second section is determined by the difficulty of the first. Your early reply is of the utmost importance.
How is the GRE new format structured? Section-by-section breakdown
The new format of the GRE is designed to be efficient and The following is the appearance of the test structure.
- Analytical Writing: Task (analyze a situation), 30 minutes.
- Verbal Reasoning: Sections 12 and 15; 41 minutes in all.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Sections. 12 questions and 15 questions. Total time 47 minutes.
You can skip questions within a section and return to them you know, later, allowing you to manage your time strategically. The GRE is now available exclusively in a digital format. And you can take it at a test centre or from home in India.
| Section | No. Of Questions | Time Allotted | Adaptivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 | 30 min | No |
| Verbal Reasoning | 12 + 15 | 18 min + 23 min | Section-adaptive |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 12 + 15 | 21 min + 26 min | Section-adaptive |
🎯 Important: No negative marking in the GRE new format
The new GRE format continues the no-marking policy. Attempt every question. There’s no penalty for wrong answers!
🎯 Important: GRE new format is available at home and in test centers
India’s students can choose to take the new GRE format at any of the authorized test centers or at home. The security and scoring standards are the same.
What are the benefits and challenges of the GRE new format?
Honestly, the new GRE format offers many advantages to Indian students, but it also introduces new challenges. Here’s a balanced.
Key Benefits of the GRE new format
- The shorter the time, the less tired and more rested you’re, the easier.
- No experimental section means that every question matters and increases.
- Section-adaptive design allows for more individualized assessment.
- Honestly, various test formats are available, at home or in a testing center.
- The scoring system and the absence of negative marking provide familiarity for the repeat.
Common Challenges in the GRE new format
- Less questions, less margin of error. Every answer is critical.
- No break means more stamina and time management.
- See, analytical Writing is a single essay, which increases the pressure to do well on one.
- This format, a sectional adaptation, requires a strong performance.
Gateway International helps students overcome these challenges with expert GRE coaching, a personalised study plan and comprehensive support from registration to the test day.
Akshit Virdi
“My experience with Gateway International is too good and they supported me at every step. Moreover, they didn’t charge me anything for my whole process, which made the entire process even more majestic. I highly recommend all my friends and colleagues to get their Visa from Gateway International.”
How should Indian students prepare for the GRE new format in 2025?
Preparation for the new GRE format requires a shift in strategy. See, here’s how you can adapt your preparation for the GRE changes:
- Focus on accuracy and time management-every question is more important than ever.
- Practice with official GRE new format mock tests to get used to the shorter duration and the new exam pattern.
- We’ll develop strategies for the section-based test, especially for the Verbal and Quantitative sections.
- Sharpen your essay writing skills for the single Analytical Writing task. In just thirty minutes, learn how to plan and write clear, well-organized essays.
- Use the high-quality study materials and online resources tailored to the new format of GRE.
- Take advantage of Gateway International’s GRE coaching, a personal counseling and free SOP writing tools.
Remember, the new format of GRE is designed to be more efficient, but it requires a greater degree of focus and preparation. Gateway International’s expert mentors help you develop a study plan to suit your university and career goals.
Riya Zainab
“I had the best agent and team guiding me every step of the way from shortlisting universities to submitting applications and securing my visa. They were incredibly hands-on throughout the process, especially Divya Israni, who went above and beyond to help me get into my first-choice university. I seriously couldn’t have asked for a more supportive and amazing team!”
Student Queries & Direct Q&A
Q1: What are the biggest GRE changes in the new format for 2025?
The GRE revised format is shorter (one hour and fifty-eight minutes), has fewer questions (55 in total), has one analytical writing task, and has no experimental section. The test is now exclusively given by a computer and is section-adaptive for Verbal.
Q2: How does the GRE new format impact my preparation?
You need to focus on accuracy and time management, because each question has a greater effect on your score. Practice the new exam format and develop strategies for section-based testing.
Q3: Is the scoring system different in the GRE new format?
No, the scoring remains the same. Verbal and Quantitative Sections are scored 130-170, and Analytical Writing is scored 0-6. There’s no negative marking.
Q4: Can I take the GRE new format at home in India?
Yes, Indian students can take the GRE in the new format at home or at a testing center, both with the same security and scoring standards.
Q5: What is the best way to prepare for the GRE new format?
Use the official GRE mock tests and focus on accuracy and developing strategies for the section-wise test. Gateway International offers expert coaching and a bespoke study plan for the GRE.
Q6: How important is the Analytical Writing section in the GRE new format?
With only one essay, your performance is even more critical. Practice writing well-organized, concise essays in thirty minutes to raise your score.
Q7: Are there scholarships for Indian students taking the GRE new format?
Yes, many universities do offer scholarships based on GRE scores. Check with your target institutions and use the guidance of Gateway International to increase your chances.
Arihant Jain
“Huge thanks to the amazing team for my French student visa! Hashmeet Ma’am was brilliant with the overall guidance and admission. Simran Ma’am was a lifesaver with the perfect visa documentation, making VFS a breeze. And Zainab Ma’am totally prepped me for my interviews. Highly recommend their service for anyone applying abroad!”
How Gateway International helps you succeed with the GRE new format
Gateway International has over 17 years of experience in guiding Indian students in their journey to study abroad. Our expertise with the GRE new format ensures that you get the latest strategies, resources, and individualized support to achieve your target score.
Step-by-step support from Gateway International
- Profile Evaluation & Personalization: We assess your academic background, career goals and GRE readiness to build a bespoke preparation plan.
- Country & Course Selection: Actually, our counselors help you choose the best-fit universities and programs for your GRE new format score and interests.
- Application & Visa Guidance: We’ll guide you through every step of the application process from your essays to your visa
- Scholarship & Funding Support: Get access to the exclusive scholarship opportunities for Indian students.
- Pre-Departure & Post-Arrival Assistance: From orientation to accommodation, we support you beyond the test day.
With Gateway International you can access expert mentors, free SOP generators and a proven track record of over 50,000 successful placements worldwide.
Success Story Spotlight: Real Student Journey
Deepak Kumar, one of our students, got a scholarship of £ 5000 and received his UK student visa in just 8 days. Thanks to Gateway International’s timely and professional support. From shortlisting universities to preparing documents and submitting the visa application, our team ensured a smooth and hassle-free experience. Deepak’s story is only one of the thousands. Yours can be the next.
Deepak Kumar
“With Gateway International’s help, I was able to secure a scholarship of £5000, which significantly reduced my tuition burden. My UK student visa was approved within just 8 days, all thanks to their timely and professional assistance. The overall experience with Gateway International was smooth and stress-free.”
Conclusion
The GRE New Pattern 2025 is a bold step forward, with a redesigned, student-friendly format that rewards focused preparation and strategic thinking. The new GRE changes are welcome news for Indian students. They bring less test-day fatigue, more transparency, and The new GRE format also requires a higher level of accuracy and time management. Understanding the GRE new format. Adapting your preparation, and relying on Gateway International’s expert support will help you achieve your dream score and unlock global opportunities. Start your GRE journey with Gateway International and experience the difference.
Explore GRE Changes and Their Impacts
Understand the key changes in the GRE 2025 format and how they impact your test preparations.
About the Author
By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | Btech, MBA, Serial Entrepreneur | Study abroad consultants and AI in business specialistAbhinav Jain is a leading authority in international education, with 17+ years of experience and over 50,000 successful student placements. As the Founder & Director of Gateway International, he is dedicated to helping Indian students achieve their global ambitions through expert guidance, innovative tools, and a student-first approach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The new GRE format features shorter test duration, fewer questions, a single analytical writing task, no experimental section, and is section-adaptive.
The new format demands greater focus on accuracy and time management due to fewer questions and a shorter test duration.
No, the scoring remains similar; Verbal and Quantitative sections are scored from 130-170, and Analytical Writing is scored 0-6.
Yes, the new GRE format provides the flexibility to be taken at authorized test centers or at home, maintaining the same standards.
The shorter test duration reduces fatigue, no experimental section means fewer distractions, and the format aligns better with specific skill assessments.
Challenges include higher stakes per question due to a reduced number, the absence of scheduled breaks demanding better stamina, and increased pressure on the single analytical writing task.
Gateway International offers expert coaching, custom study plans, and rigorous practice tests to help students adapt to and excel in the new test format.
