GRE Syllabus 2025 – Complete Guide: Verbal, Quant, AWA & Subject Tests
Explore the updated GRE syllabus for 2025: detailed breakdown of the Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections, plus optional Subject Tests in Math, Physics, Psychology with topic-wise weightage and test pattern.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test conducted by ETS for graduate admissions worldwide. It evaluates your readiness for academic programs through a structured exam testing verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills. In this post, explore the complete GRE syllabus (General & Subject Tests) with topic-wise details, marks, PDF downloads, recommended books, and preparation tips – all in a WordPress-ready format.
1. GRE Exam Overview
| Section | No. of Sections | No. of Questions | Duration | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 | 1 Task | 30 minutes | 0–6 (0.5 increments) |
| Verbal Reasoning | 2 | 12 + 15 = 27 | 18 + 23 = 41 mins | 130–170 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 2 | 12 + 15 = 27 | 21 + 26 = 47 mins | 130–170 |
| Total Duration | 1 Hour 58 Minutes | |||
2. Analytical Writing (AWA)
Task: Analyze an Issue essay – 30 minutes
Key Skills Tested:
- Constructing clear, logical arguments
- Critically evaluating a claim or issue
- Supporting ideas with evidence
- Demonstrating command of English grammar and style
Common Topics:
- Evaluate a general belief or claim
- Examine consequences of an action or policy
- Compare multiple perspectives
Tips:
- Practice from the official AWA topic pool (ETS site)
- Use a 5-paragraph structure: Intro, 3 Body Paragraphs, Conclusion
- Include examples from history, science, or current events
3. Verbal Reasoning Syllabus
The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your reading comprehension, vocabulary in context, and sentence construction understanding.
Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension
- Text Completion (1-3 blanks)
- Sentence Equivalence (choose 2 correct answers)
Detailed Topic-wise Breakdown:
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Interpretation, inference, tone, and main idea of medium to long passages. |
| Vocabulary in Context | Understanding complex words through surrounding text. |
| Text Completion | Choosing the right words to maintain coherence and logic. |
| Sentence Equivalence | Selecting two synonyms to complete a sentence with the same meaning. |
| Grammar & Syntax | Subject-verb agreement, modifiers, logical connectives, idiomatic expressions. |
4. Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus
This section evaluates your basic mathematical skills, understanding of elementary concepts, and quantitative problem-solving ability.
Question Types:
- Quantitative Comparison
- Multiple Choice (One or Multiple answers)
- Numeric Entry
- Data Interpretation
Topic-wise Details:
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | Integers, percentages, fractions, ratios, decimals, exponents |
| Algebra | Linear & quadratic equations, inequalities, functions |
| Geometry | Lines, angles, circles, triangles, area, volume, coordinate geometry |
| Data Analysis | Statistics, probability, Venn diagrams, standard deviation, pie/bar charts |
Tips:
- Use ETS’s Math Review PDF for conceptual clarity
- Master formula-based shortcuts and calculator use
- Practice mixed sets for real-test simulation
5. GRE Subject Tests (Optional)
The GRE Subject Tests are required by some graduate programs in specific fields. These tests assess knowledge in a particular subject.
Available Subjects:
| Subject | Topics Covered | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Calculus, Algebra, Number Theory, Probability, Topology | Calculus (50%), Algebra (25%), Others (25%) |
| Physics | Mechanics, E&M, Thermodynamics, Optics, Quantum, Relativity | Multiple areas, each 6%–20% |
| Psychology | Biopsychology, Developmental, Cognitive, Clinical, Research Methods | 25% Research Methods, 75% Core Psychology |
Duration: 2 hrs 50 mins | Scoring: 200–990
6. GRE Syllabus PDF Download
- ETS Official GRE Math Review PDF
- ETS Verbal & Quant Sample Questions
- AWA Issue Topics PDF
- Subject Test Practice Books
7. Recommended Books for GRE Preparation
- ETS Official GRE Guide – Most reliable source
- Manhattan Prep 5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems
- Kaplan GRE Prep Plus – Strategy-focused
- Magoosh GRE Prep – Affordable online platform
- Barron’s GRE High-Frequency Word List
8. GRE Preparation Tips
- Take a diagnostic test to identify strengths and weaknesses
- Build a structured study plan for 8–12 weeks
- Focus on vocabulary (20 new words/day)
- Daily practice of Reading Comprehension and Math sets
- Attempt full-length mock tests biweekly
- Review mistakes via error logs
- Write practice essays using ETS prompts
- Stay consistent and track progress weekly
9. Specialization – Who Should Take the Subject Tests?
Choose GRE Subject Tests if applying to:
- STEM programs (Physics, Mathematics)
- Psychology PhD/Master’s programs
- Institutions that require or recommend them
10. Conclusion
The GRE syllabus is comprehensive, covering analytical writing, critical reasoning, reading comprehension, and mathematics. For competitive scores, aspirants should combine concept clarity with consistent practice and strategic preparation. Use this guide, follow an actionable study plan, and stay committed to success.
Good luck with your GRE 2025 preparation!
