Cracking the GRE – 10 Tips to Maximizing Your Score

MOST but NOT all Doctor of Physical Therapy programs require applicants to take the Graduate Requisite Exam (GRE). The GRE is an important part of an application of any aspiring physical therapist.

One thing to keep in mind when taking the GRE is that quality preparation and adequate devotion of time is essential to successfully cracking the GRE. Here are 10 things to keep in mind…

How to Study

1. 1. Buy a GRE test prep book.
      • Many of the GRE test prep books are affordable and cover every question format that you will encounter on the test.
      • Being familiar with the format of the question will help you minimize small mistakes and misinterpretation of the question.
   2. Focus on learning testing techniques.
      • Rather than stressing about knowing the answer to every single question, practice your process of elimination skills in order to maximize your chances of getting each answer correct.
      • Understanding general patterns within each test section is key.
   3. Set aside at least three hours a week to do practice problems and review.
      • This seems like a lot of time, but trust me it is worth it. I bought the prep book, studied a little bit between classes every day, and was able to get through the whole book. This prep time increased my scores drastically and helped me have peace of mind on test day.
      • Don’t forget to review why your wrong answers were wrong at the end!

Practice Smart and Schedule Ahead

1. 1. Take advantage of free practice tests!
      • Often times Kaplan or other online sources will provide free proctored practice tests. Take advantage of this early on to see a benchmark score for which you can improve on.
      • Search for tests will give you a break down on the type of questions that you miss most frequently. This will help you know where to focus your studying.
   2. Set your test date early enough in case you need to re-take it.
      • Frequently, people end up taking the GRE more than once. Therefore, make sure you set your test date far enough in advance to allow yourself additional time to study for a second attempt.
      • Try not to overlap your GRE test with the application window. The PTCAS application opens up July 1st, and it makes for a generally stressful time. It is best not to add the stress of the GRE on top of that. It is ideal to get the GRE over with before the application even opens.

Simulate the Real Testing Circumstances

1. 1. Do as many practice tests as possible, ON THE COMPUTER.
      • The actual GRE test in the Prometric testing centers is 100% computerized. Take a look at the content and structure here. The test is long and a major downside to that is the fact that you must stare at a computer screen the whole time. You should make it a point to gain endurance by taking multiple practice tests on the computer. Many test prep books come with a subscription to multiple online practice tests.

        What to Expect on Test Day from Prometric on Vimeo.

      • Another important note is that the test includes an on screen calculator for the quantitative reasoning sections. It is best to practice using this calculator as it might be formatted differently than the hand-held calculators that you have used in the past.
      • Moreover, it is good to get familiar with typing in answers for math problems, getting accustomed to answer choices, and learning how to skip and return to questions. With familiarity comes success.
      • Be prepared for the stress provoking on screen clock. There is an option to hide the clock, but it can be a helpful tool for time management. This is basically up to personal preference.
   2. On practice tests, don’t take breaks, drink water, eat or chew gum.
      • The most surprising aspect of test day was the fact that there is virtually nothing allowed inside the testing center. This includes water bottles.

The Test Day

1. Get a good night’s rest and try not to cram!
   • Since the GRE is on such a broad range of subjects, it is nearly impossible to prepare in just one night. If you have reached the night before the test, and still don’t feel ready, it is best to just get a good night’s rest. Trust that you know as much as you are going to know for this test. Remember, most of the answers can be reasoned out and having a well-rested mind will help you do just that. If you find you were underprepared, you can always re-take it.
2. Arrive early on test day.
   • The GRE is already stressful enough; don’t add the stress of being late. Know where your testing center is located, and leave with enough time to get there at least 30 minutes early. There is some paperwork to fill out upon arrival. DO NOT forget your ID.
3. Relax in the testing center.
   • The testing center can be an anxiety-ridden place. Try to relax and think about something other than what is at stake with your GRE score. Like we stated before, as with the SAT, the GRE can be repeated.

Take Away

Most schools will evaluate applicants in part based on their GRE performance. But the GRE, like any test, can be prepared for if the proper steps are taken. With a good game plan, there’s no reason the GRE cannot be conquered!

Written By: Scott Mills

Co-Presidents at University of Washington Pre-PT Club
Megan McArthur

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