Preparing and Taking a GRE Subject Test
Subjects Covered
Before entering graduate study, your college may require a test to gauge your understanding of a certain subject.
Your scores can be used to identify your strengths and weaknesses for selecting the right classes. You may be majoring in this field or have superior knowledge of one of the subjects listed:
- Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Literature in English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
Registering and Paying for the Test
You can take the Subject Tests whenever they are offered in November, December, and April. You may apply online, by mail, or phone. If you have a waiver or other special arrangements, you may not apply online.
The fees are around the same as the regular GRE, about $130. The test will be administered at a local facility. If you have to cancel your test appointment, please do so at least 4 days before your test date. You will get a partial refund of about $60. If you want to reschedule, there is a fee of around $40.
Preparation and Other Tips
You will receive a practice booklet in the mail after you register. Take your time to get familiar with the format. Use online practice tests along with a general review of your college coursework.
You have 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete the test, with no sections that are timed separately. Don't spend too much time on one question you have trouble with. Random guessing can actually hurt your score. The test counts one-fourth of every wrong answer and subtracts it from the number of correct answers...pretty harsh.
Scoring
Some tests have a range from 200 to 990, while others go from 20-99. You receive your scores anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks after you complete the test. Once your results are scored, you can access them anytime by calling up the GRE phone support. A $10 fee is charged for this service.
