You’ve taken a practice test or received your official GRE scores, and now the big question arises: “Is my score good enough?” The answer, frustratingly, is often “it depends.” A “good” GRE score is highly relative and depends primarily on the graduate programs you’re targeting. As a GRE expert, let me help you understand how to evaluate your score and determine what constitutes a competitive score for your specific goals.
Understanding GRE Score Scales and Percentiles
First, let’s recap the score ranges:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130–170
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170
- Analytical Writing (AWA): 0–6
Simply looking at the raw score isn’t enough. The key to understanding your performance lies in percentiles. Your percentile rank indicates the percentage of test-takers who scored lower than you on that section.
ETS publishes percentile data annually. A score of 151 in Verbal might be around the 50th percentile, while a 162 might approach the 90th. A 153 in Quant could be near the 45th percentile, while a 167 might be near the 90th (these are illustrative; check current ETS data).
The AWA score matters too. Aim for 4.0+ (adequate), 4.5+ (good), or 5.0+ (excellent) for most competitive programs.
Factors Determining a “Good” Score
What makes a score “good” for you?
1. Program Competitiveness: (Most Important!) Highly selective programs demand higher scores (often 160s+) than mid-tier or less selective ones.
2. Field of Study: STEM/Finance often prioritize Quant; Humanities/Social Sciences often weigh Verbal/AWA more. MBAs look for balance.
3. Master’s vs. PhD: PhD programs usually require higher scores.
4. Your Overall Application Profile: Strong GPA, recommendations, experience can sometimes offset a slightly lower score, but a significantly low score is a red flag.
How to Find Target Scores
- Research Program Websites: Look for average scores, minimums, or ranges of admitted students. This is the best source.
- Check School Profiles/Rankings: Sources like US News often list averages.
- Use ETS Data: Provides general averages by field.
- Contact Admissions Offices: Politely inquire if data isn’t online.
Setting Your Goal
Aim for a score at or ideally above the average for your specific target programs. For top-tier schools, target the 75th percentile or higher of their admitted students.
Wondering how your current performance measures up against your target schools? Try our free GRE practice tests today!
What if My Score Isn’t “Good Enough”?
- Analyze: Use score reports to pinpoint weaknesses.
- Retake: Focused prep can lead to score improvement. Allowed every 21 days (up to 5x/year).
- Strengthen Other Areas: Polish your statement of purpose, get strong recommendations.
- Adjust School List: Add programs where your scores are more competitive.
Key Takeaways
- “Good” is Relative: Depends entirely on your target programs and field.
- Percentiles Matter: Understand how your score compares to other test-takers.
- Research is Crucial: Find the average/typical scores for your specific programs.
- Context is Key: Consider program competitiveness, field, degree level, and your overall profile.
- Aim High: Target scores at or above the average for your desired schools.
Conclusion
There’s no universal “good” GRE score. It’s defined by the context of your graduate school aspirations. Use percentiles for comparison, but focus your research on your target institutions’ expectations. Aiming to meet or exceed their typical admitted student scores is your best strategy.
Expand your knowledge with: Start Your GRE Prep (2025): Read the Complete Guide.
