What Is Included on the GRE® Math Test?

A question set on the graduate record examination (GRE®) math test assesses candidates’ abilities in elementary to advanced algebra, data analysis, and calculus. If they plan to pursue advanced degrees in areas such as mathematics, physics, computer science, or engineering, many undergraduate college students take this test for graduate school admission. GRE® math test scores are frequently scrutinized by graduate school admissions committees in order to assess applicants’ potential for success in these fields of study at a higher level. The GRE® math section contains questions that are designed to assess students’ problem-solving abilities at all levels, from high school to college senior undergraduate.

Candidates’ understanding of fundamental concepts as well as their ability to apply these concepts to a variety of problems are assessed on the GRE® mathematics tests. Although some students excel in their college mathematics courses, they frequently discover that a thorough review is required once some time has passed between these classes and their scheduled exam date. The GRE® math test is a subject-specific exam, not to be confused with the GRE® general test’s quantitative reasoning section.

The GRE® math test’s algebra questions usually start with simple problems that cover topics like order of operations, exponents, and correct polynomial manipulation. Candidates’ understanding of matrices, vectors, and systems of equations is tested through linear algebra problems. Questions on module and ring theories are common on this GRE® test’s abstract algebra topics. The GRE® math section on algebra can also include number theory problems.

About half of the GRE® math test is made up of elementary calculus. The knowledge of integral and differential equations, as well as advanced applications of calculus to trigonometry and geometry, is usually put to the test in these problems. This material is usually taught in a first-year college calculus course. Additional calculus coursework or tutoring sessions can help many graduate school applicants improve their GRE® math scores.

A portion of the GRE® math test can cover topics like analytic geometry, probability, statistical analysis, and topology applications, in addition to algebra and calculus problems. These questions may change from year to year, depending on how the GRE® test writers see fit. Trends in student scores can often lead to the addition of new mathematics material. Periodic revisions are frequently thought to be necessary for the exam to accurately measure advanced mathematics scores over a wide range.