How a GRE Practice Test can Pave the Way for a Perfect GRE Score?

As the saying goes, “Practice makes a man perfect,” This couldn’t be truer than when preparing for the GRE as an international student. Taking a GRE practice test not only gives you an idea of what to expect on the actual test but also sharpens your skills and points out your weaknesses. Preparing for the GRE can be daunting for an international student. The GRE is a standardised test required by many universities in the United States and other countries as part of the application process for graduate programs. The test is designed to measure a student’s readiness for graduate-level coursework and evaluates skills in areas such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. However, with proper preparation, international students can achieve a perfect score on the GRE.

How is the GRE scored?

The GRE test consists of Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130-170, while Analytical Writing is scored on a scale of 0-6. Scores are based on the number of correct answers, with no penalty for incorrect or unanswered questions. By taking a GRE practice test and understanding the test format and scoring, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, tailor your study plan, and improve your test-taking skills.

Why take a GRE practice test?

For several reasons, taking a GRE practice test is a crucial step in your test preparation journey. Here are some ways in which a GRE mock test can help international students pave the way for a perfect GRE score:

1. Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses: International students may have different strengths and weaknesses than native English speakers due to differences in language and cultural background. A GRE practice test can help international students identify their specific areas of strength and weakness and adjust their study plan accordingly.
2. Getting Familiar with the Test Format: The GRE practice test can help international students become more familiar with the test format, which is essential for success on the actual test. By practising with sample questions and timed sections, international students can reduce test anxiety and feel more comfortable during the test.
3. Practising Time Management: Time management is a critical skill for success in the GRE, and international students may need more practice in this area due to language barriers. A GRE practice test can help international students learn how to manage their time effectively during the test, which can improve their overall scores.
4. Building Test-Taking Skills: The GRE requires a variety of test-taking skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving. International students may need extra practice in these areas due to differences in education systems and cultural backgrounds. A GRE practice test can help international students build these skills and feel more confident during the actual test.
5. Improving English Language Skills: The GRE can be particularly challenging for international students due to the English language requirement. A GRE practice test can help international students improve their English language skills, such as vocabulary and reading comprehension, which can help them perform better on the actual test.
6. Boosting Confidence: By taking a GRE sample test and performing well, international students can boost their confidence and reduce test anxiety. This will help them stay focused and achieve their best on test day.
7. Taking Multiple Practice Tests: Taking multiple GRE practice tests is essential to track your progress and identify areas that need improvement. Taking at least three to four practice tests to understand your strengths and weaknesses better and follow your improvement over time.
8. Reviewing Practice Test Results: After taking a GRE practice test, it’s important to review the results to understand your mistakes and areas of improvement. Analysing your test results can help you identify the types of questions that you struggled with and the specific skills you need to work on. Reviewing your practice test results can also help you track your progress over time and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Types of GRE practice tests

International students can access several types of GRE practice tests that international students can access, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The official ETS practice tests are the most authentic and reliable, as they are created by the same organisation that administers the GRE. However, they can be expensive and limited in number.

Commercial test prep materials, such as books, online courses, and mobile apps, are another popular option. They offer a wide range of practice questions, explanations, and strategies and are often more affordable than official materials. However, they may not be as closely aligned with the actual GRE test as the official materials.

Online forums and communities, such as Reddit, GRE Prep Club, and Magoosh GRE Blog, are also great resources for GRE practice tests. They offer a wealth of information, advice, and support from fellow test takers and experts. However, you need to be cautious about the quality and accuracy of the information and avoid getting overwhelmed or distracted by too many opinions and perspectives.

The Collegepond GRE Practice Test is a popular and free GRE mock test that helps students gauge their baseline scores and preparedness. After taking this free GRE mock test, many students have confirmed an 18-point increase in their score from the baseline to the actual GRE after taking this free GRE mock test.

How to take a GRE practice test

Taking a GRE practice test requires preparation and strategy to maximise your time and effort. Here are some tips on how to take a practice test effectively:

• Choose a quiet and comfortable location with minimal distractions.
• Use a reliable and secure internet connection.
• Follow the test instructions and timing strictly.
• Use scratch paper and a pencil to work out the maths problems and take notes.
• Review your answers and explanations after each section to understand your mistakes and strengths.
• Analyse your results and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Preparing for the GRE as an international student can be challenging, but achieving a perfect score is possible with the right approach. Taking a GRE practice test can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, become familiar with the test format, practice time management and test-taking skills, improve your English language skills, boost your confidence, and track your progress. Various types of GRE practice tests are available, including official materials, commercial test prep materials, and online forums and communities, each with advantages and disadvantages. Tutor-led sessions, in-person or online, can provide personalised and targeted feedback on your performance and help you develop a customised study plan. By following the tips on taking a practice test effectively, you can make the most of your practice and increase your chances of success on the actual test.

Advantages of GRE coaching

1. Expert guidance: GRE coaching provides students with guidance and support from experienced instructors who are well-versed in the GRE test format and content.
2. Personalised study plans: GRE coaching programs can help students create a customised study plan based on their individual strengths and weaknesses.
3. Practice tests: GRE coaching programs often provide students with access to a variety of practice tests that closely mimic the actual GRE exam.
4. Targeted feedback: GRE coaching programs can provide students with targeted feedback on their performance in practice tests and other assessments.
5. Motivation and accountability: GRE coaching programs can help students stay motivated and accountable throughout their GRE preparation journey. By working with an experienced coach and having regular check-ins and progress reports.

Ready to ace the GRE? Collegepond offers top-notch GRE coaching and free GRE practice paper to help you achieve your target score. Sign up now and start your journey towards graduate school success!