4 Differences between GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test?

Although Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores make up only a part of your graduate school application, it is important. Most education institutions require applicants to have a minimum GRE score to be eligible for admission. However, the GRE score standards within a university may differ for various graduate programs.

1. Purpose:

As the name suggests, GRE General Tests assess your critical thinking and analytical skills. Regardless of your field of study, you may need to take this test as most universities demand the scores. On the other hand, GRE Subject Tests are designed to analyze your specific knowledge related to your field of study. These are usually taken by prospective graduate school applicants who are majoring in specific subjects. Although the subject scores may not be a mandatory requirement for admission to the program that you are applying for, it is a great idea to submit it, as this will give you a competitive edge.

2. Content:

The General Test comprises of the following three sections:

• Verbal Reasoning – This measures your ability to analyze and understand sentences and texts.
• Quantitative Reasoning – This section will analyze your problem-solving skills and basic mathematical concepts.
• Analytical writing – This will test your ability to communicate effectively and express complex ideas through writing.

The Subject Tests evaluates your knowledge in any of the following specific fields:

• Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Literature in English
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Psychology
• Computer Science

3. Delivery Mode of the Tests:

You can register to take either computer-delivered or paper-delivered General Test. The former is offered at test centers year-round. The latter is conducted in specific locations on pre-determined dates. These tests take around four hours. Unlike the General Test, Subject Tests are available only in paper versions and are conducted during September, October, and April. These would take up to two hours and fifty minutes.

4. Scoring:

There is striking difference between the scoring standards of the two types of GRE tests. While the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections of the GRE General Test are scored on a scale from 130 to 170 (in one point increments), the analytical writing section is scored on a scale from 0 to 6 (in half point increments). GRE Subject Tests are scored on a scale from 200 to 990 (in 10-point increments).

Regardless of these differences, both types of GRE tests have some common factors. You can study and constantly practice to improve your scores in case of both. When studying, it is important to learn time management as this will prepare you for the real-life scenario. There are plenty of resources available online for practice. You can even take mock tests and analyze yourself to make sure that you are ready for the GRE tests.

8 Things You Must Do To Boost Your CV

Studying abroad certainly increases your chances of getting hired by top companies. You may not have realized that you can gain more than just academic skills to increase your employability. Here are some tips to boost your CV while studying abroad.

1. Get a part-time job

All employers appreciate people with work experience. By getting a part-time job alongside your studies, you are showing that you can manage your time efficiently and achieve the grades even with multiple responsibilities at hand.

If you get a part-time job in the field of your studies, you are demonstrating that you are already accustomed to the work environment and are familiar with the tasks you will be dealing with. Even factors like working in a team and meeting deadlines count.

2. Join a student society

Each university in US has around a hundred student societies – sports, arts and even movie clubs. It is not always necessary for you to join a student society that is relevant to your program or career path. Join any student society that interests you and have fun with people who share your common interests.

Such social activities will also boost your CV and make you stand out to potential employers. If you happen to be the president or secretary of the student society, it will demonstrate your leadership skills to an employer.

3. Volunteer

Similar to a part-time job, volunteering while studying shows that you have great time management skills. This will also help you to be in the good books as you will be devoting your time to a good cause.

4. Network

Building relationships with other students, faculty and alumni is a great way to enhance your chances of a successful career. 

5. Travel

It is fun to travel when you are abroad. There is a lot to see. But how does it help you in future? Travelling will make you attractive to employers because you gain experience. Most jobs involve travelling and this shows that you are not afraid to do that when necessary. 

6. Learn a new language

Thousands of international students come to USA every year to study. Making friends with people from different countries is a great way to learn a new language and know more about various cultures. This will help you in the long run, when you are applying to global companies.

7. Improve your digital portfolio

Many companies nowadays go through your social media profiles before hiring. So, publish your life experiences abroad that could improve your stature.

8. Constantly update your CV

Do not wait until you complete your program to create a CV. Keep adding new skills and experiences to make sure you don’t miss anything out.