GRE score range at a glance
Verbal and Quant are each scored 130–170 in 1-point steps, for a combined 260–340. Analytical Writing is scored 0–6 in half-point steps. Scores are valid for 5 years.
What counts as good, very good and excellent
| Level | Combined | Typically competitive for |
|---|---|---|
| Top 10% | 330+ | Elite programs: top MBA, Ivy-level PhD, top CS/engineering |
| Very good | 320–329 | Competitive for most top-50 graduate programs |
| Good | 310–319 | Above average; solid for many strong programs |
| Average | ~300–309 | Near the overall test-taker average |
| Below average | Under 300 | Usually worth a retake if your target is competitive |
Approximate GRE percentiles
Percentiles show the share of test takers you scored above. Quant percentiles are lower at the same score because many test takers are strong in math.
| Scaled score | Verbal percentile | Quant percentile |
|---|---|---|
| 170 | 99% | 99% |
| 165 | 96% | ~86% |
| 160 | 86% | ~73% |
| 155 | 68% | ~57% |
| 150 | 47% | ~38% |
| 145 | 26% | ~22% |
Figures are approximate and based on recently published ETS interpretive data; ETS updates them yearly. Convert any score instantly with our GRE score calculator.
Target scores by program type
Quant matters most; Verbal 150+ is usually fine.
Balanced profile; top schools often expect 325+.
Verbal and Writing (4.5+) weigh more than Quant.
Balanced; check each department's published medians.
The best target is specific: look up the average or median GRE of admitted students on each program's admissions page, then aim 3–5 points above it.
How to find your real baseline
Your goal score only matters relative to where you are now. Take a timed, full-length adaptive practice test under real conditions, the shorter GRE's second section adapts to how you did on the first, so short quizzes tend to overestimate your score. Then retest every 1–2 weeks to track progress.
Official-style adaptive full tests with scaled scores, section analytics and essay scoring. Tests never expire.
Get your full practice testsFAQ
Is 300 a good GRE score? It's around average. It works for some programs, but most competitive programs expect 310+.
Is 320 a good GRE score? Yes, roughly the top 20–25% and competitive for most top-50 programs. See how to score 320+.
Do schools see all my scores? With ScoreSelect you can choose which test dates to send.
Put it into practice
Try a free timed GRE section with explanations, then unlock up to 10 full-length adaptive mock tests.