When setting goals for your GRE scores, you should always consider the type of program you’re applying to. For example, you’re better off applying to top Journalism programs with a V170 and a Q160 than with the reverse. On the other hand, earning that 170 in GRE Quant rather than in Verbal would make sense for top Engineering programs.

But what if your major is somewhere in between English and Math, for example, Psychology or Business? In these types of programs, verbal and math are both necessary for success. So, V165/Q165, or something close to that split, would make you highly competitive.

Another thing to keep in mind is that even if you earn a great score in one section, if you tank the other section, scoring 330 won’t be in the cards. So, even if one section is more important for your chosen programs, focusing the overwhelming majority of your study time on just one section isn’t a great plan.

Instead, aim for a fairly even split between your math and verbal study. For example, you could do an hour of Quant studying and an hour of Verbal studying each day. In fact, this approach is recommended because the GRE itself alternates the two math and two verbal sections. So, your mind needs practice performing left-brain, and then right-brain activities in relatively short time frames.

Of course, if you’re struggling with one section far more than the other, you can try a 60/40 or 65/35 split in favor of your weak section. Remember, if one of your section scores is already high, you can adjust your study ratio to better suit your needs. Just be wary of going too far in one direction!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep