Many students start studying for the GRE with no idea of the score they need or what that score represents. Scoring “as high as possible” or “high enough to get into grad school at Cornell” (or whatever their dream school is)” is not a solid strategy. After all, how do you know what a “high enough” score is without researching GRE scores at your dream school?

Thus, the first task in your GRE preparation is to determine your target score. Look up the GRE scores of applicants accepted at the schools and programs you’re interested in. Note that many schools publish a range of GRE scores, rather than specific averages. Don’t think that scoring at the low end of the range will guarantee you admission. Instead, aim for at least the middle of a school’s GRE score range.

A benefit of determining your target score is qualifying for scholarships or assistantships. Many of these awards are based—either solely or partly—on your GRE score, so research any minimum GRE scores required for qualifying. A great GRE score could be worth tens of thousands of dollars!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep