GRE Subject Tests: Everything You Should Know About It
If you’re planning to pursue a master’s in Physics, Psychology, or Mathematics from a university abroad, you are not required to take the GRE General Test. Instead, you can appear for the GRE Subject Test, which is designed to assess your proficiency in a specific subject area. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete details of the GRE Subject Test: its format, syllabus, scoring, registration process, and more!
What is the GRE Subject Test?
The GRE Subject Test is a standardized exam administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) to evaluate a candidate’s knowledge in a specific subject area, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology—typically at the undergraduate level.
- Ideal for candidates with a bachelor’s in these subjects.
- Required for admission and scholarships in graduate programs.
- Conducted 3 times a year.
- Available in both at-home and test center formats.
- Delivered in a computer-based mode.
Overview of GRE Subject Test
Below, we have tabulated the general overview of the GRE subject test.
| Duration | 2 Hours 50 Minutes (Mathematics) 2 Hours (Physics and Psychology) |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology |
| Number of Sections | 1 |
| Number of Questions | Physics: 70 MCQs Mathematics: 66 MCQs Psychology: 144 MCQs |
| Mode of Delivery | Computer-based |
| Skills Tested | Subject-specific |
| Score Range | 200-990 (overall) |
| Fees | INR 14,500/- per application |
Structure and Pattern of GRE Subject Test - Table
- The GRE subject test is conducted for 3 different subjects: physics, psychology, and mathematics.
- Each of the GRE subject tests consists of only 1 section to attempt
- The test consists of a different number of multiple-choice questions, depending on the subject.
- The GRE subject test for mathematics requires candidates to answer 66 MCQs in about 2.50 hours.
- The GRE subject test for physics and psychology requires candidates to answer 66 MCQs and 144 MCQs, respectively, in about 2 hours.
| Subjects | Number of Sections | Number of Parts/Questions | Allotted Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 1 | 66 MCQs | 2 Hours 50 Minutes |
| Physics | 1 | 70 MCQs | 2 Hours |
| Psychology | 1 | 144 MCQs | 2 Hours |
Breakdown of Different GRE Subject Tests
Now, let us discuss each type of GRE subject test comprehensively.
GRE Subject Test for Mathematics
- The GRE subject test for mathematics consists of 66 multiple-choice questions that evaluate the foundational subject knowledge at the undergraduate level.
- It also assesses how well test takers are able to apply those concepts to solve problems through reasoning and critical thinking skills.
- 33 MCQs cover the topics of calculus and its applications
- 16 MCQs cover topics of algebra, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and number theory
- The remaining 16 MCQs deal with additional topics such as sequences and series, logic, combinatorics, algorithms, probability, and statistics.
| Number of Questions | Topics |
|---|---|
| 33 | Differential and integral calculus |
| 16 | Elementary, linear, and abstract algebra, number theory |
| 16 | Sequences and series Logic Combinatorics Algorithms Probability Statistics |
GRE Subject Test for Physics
- The GRE subject test for physics consists of 70 5-choice multiple questions based on diagrams, graphs, experimental data, and situational contexts.
- It also assesses how well test takers are able to apply fundamental concepts and principles of physics to solve problems through reasoning and critical thinking skills.
- The topic areas include the following.
- Classical Mechanics
- Electromagnetism
- Optics and Wave
- Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Atomic Physics
- Special Relativity
- Laboratory Methods
- Specialised Topics
- Test takers appearing in this exam must be familiar with the following mathematical concepts and their applications in physics.
- Single and multivariate calculus
- Coordinate systems
- Vector algebra
- Vector differential operators
- Fourier series
- Partial differential equations
- Boundary value problems
- Matrices and determinants
- Functions of complex variables
| Number of Questions | Topics |
|---|---|
| 14 | Classical mechanics |
| 13 | Electromagnetism |
| 6 | Optics and Waves |
| 7 | Thermodynamics and Statistical |
| 9 | Quantum Mechanics |
| 7 | Atomic Physics |
| 4 | Special Relativity |
| 4 | Laboratory Methods |
| 6 | Specialised Topics |
GRE Subject Test for Psychology
The GRE Psychology Subject Test comprises around 144 multiple-choice questions, each with five answer options. These questions are based on psychological theories, experiments, and data representations typically covered in undergraduate-level psychology courses. Test-takers may be asked to:
- Recall factual information
- Analyze relationships between concepts
- Apply psychological principles
- Interpret data and draw conclusions
- Evaluate research designs
| Number of Questions | Topics |
|---|---|
| 30 | Biological |
| 29 | Cognitive |
| 19 | Social |
| 18 | Developmental |
| 23 | Clinical |
| 25 | Measurement/Methodology/Other |
Scoring System of GRE Subject Tests
- The GRE Subject Test is scored on a scale ranging from 200 to 990.Â
- Test takers’ raw scores, based on the number of correct answers, are converted into this scaled score in 10-point increments.Â
- It’s important to note that scores from different subject tests are not comparable.Â
- Additionally, there is no penalty for incorrect answers.Â
- Finally, the scaled score is also translated into a percentile ranking between 0 and 100, indicating a candidate’s performance relative to other test takers.
Registration Process for GRE Subject Test
- The GRE Subject Test is conducted 3 times a year
- In 2025, the GRE Subject Test can be booked between April 21-May 4.
| GRE Subject Test Dates | Score Reporting Dates |
|---|---|
| September 16-September 29, 2024 | October 7, 2024 |
| October 17-October 20, 2024 | November 7, 2024 |
| April 21-May 4, 2025 | May 12, 2025 |
- Candidates can register for the test 2 weeks prior to their preferred test date.
- You can appear in the test either at your home or centre, depending on the circumstances and personal preferences.Â
- Registration for the GRE test involves these two processes, which are described below.
Creating an ETS Account
- With an ETS account, you can register for the
- GRE General Test
- GRE Subject Tests
- Applying for Testing Accommodations (for candidates with physical and mental disabilities)
- View test scores
- Order test report, etc.
ID Proofs for Indian Candidates
Before creating an account on ETS, you should ensure that you have valid updated ID proof. Indian candidates are required to have a passport with a clear name, signature, and photograph.                       Â
Steps for Creating an ETS Account
- Visit the official website of the Educational Testing Service (ETS)
- Enter your email
- Select the ‘Create an account’ tab
- Enter your personal details asked
- Create a username and password
- Review and submit
- You will receive a confirmation email and can now proceed to the registration steps.
Register for the GRE Test
- Sign in using your username and password
- Click ‘register’
- Select ‘GRE Subject Test’
- Choose the test centre or the ‘test at home’ option.
Steps for Test Centre Registration
- Enter your preferred testing location
- Choose the 2-month period when you would like to appear for the test
- Select ‘Continue’
- Choose the available date from the calendar
- Choose a test centre
- Select ‘show test times’ for that location/centre
- Choose the time and click on ‘register.’
- Review and proceed to payment options
- Pay the required fees and submit
- You will receive a confirmation email containing the test details
Steps for ‘Test at Home’ Registration
- Verify your email address
- Choose the 2-month period when you would like to appear for the test
- Select ‘Continue’
- Confirm your time zone
- Choose the available date from the calendar
- Choose the time and click on ‘register.’
- Review and proceed to payment options
- Pay the required fees and submit
- You will receive a confirmation email containing the link to launch your test.
- Keep this email secure
Preparation for the GRE Subject Test
Your preparation for the GRE Subject Test can begin with the ‘Official GRE Prep’ resources available on the ETS website. These include the official test guide, digital lessons, quizzes, full-length practice tests, and expert tips to help you boost your performance. Additionally, ETS provides valuable tools such as:
- Official GRE Mentor Course
- GRE Vocabulary Flashcards
- POWERPREP Practice Tests
- Math Review
- Math Conventions
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
The GRE Subject Test is specifically designed for candidates seeking admission to graduate programs abroad in physics, mathematics, or psychology. Instead of taking the GRE General Test, these applicants can choose to take the subject-specific exam. Created by ETS, this test evaluates in-depth knowledge in these areas, offering a more focused and comprehensive assessment of a candidate’s academic readiness.
FAQs
Which GRE subject test should I take for MS courses?
It depends on the subject that you are taking while pursuing your master of science degree program. The GRE subject tests are only available for those applicants who want to enroll in the MS in physics, psychology, and mathematics degree programs.
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When GRE subject tests are conducted in India?
In India, the GRE subject tests are usually conducted 3 times a year. In 2025, the test slots are available between April 21st and May 4th.
How long is the GRE subject test conducted?
The GRE subject test for mathematics is conducted for 2 hours and 50 minutes, whereas for psychology and physics subjects, the duration is 2 hours.
How much does the GRE subject test cost in India?
The GRE subject test costs around Rs. 14,500/- per application in India.
Who should take the GRE subject test?
Those students who want to pursue their master’s degree in physics, psychology, or mathematics can opt to attempt the GRE subject test. They also have an option to appear in the GRE General Test.
