The GRE Subject Tests are achievement tests designed to measure knowledge in a specific undergraduate subject area. Graduate programs may use these scores to help evaluate an applicant’s preparation for advanced study in that field.
GRE Subject Tests are separate from the general GRE. The general GRE measures broader verbal, quantitative, and writing skills, while a Subject Test focuses on one academic discipline.
Current GRE Subject Tests
The GRE Subject Tests are currently available in three subjects:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
| Subject Test | Questions | Testing Time | Main Content Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | About 66 | 2 hours, 50 minutes | Calculus, algebra, and additional undergraduate math topics |
| Physics | About 70 | 2 hours | Mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, relativity, lab methods, and specialized topics |
| Psychology | About 144 | 2 hours | Biological, cognitive, social, developmental, clinical, and measurement/methodology topics |
Mathematics Subject Test
The GRE Mathematics Subject Test includes multiple-choice questions based on undergraduate mathematics courses. About half of the test focuses on calculus and its applications.
- Calculus: About 50% of the test
- Algebra: About 25% of the test
- Additional topics: About 25% of the test
The additional topics may include areas such as real analysis, discrete mathematics, topology, complex variables, probability, statistics, and numerical analysis.
Physics Subject Test
The GRE Physics Subject Test measures knowledge of core undergraduate physics concepts and the ability to apply those concepts to problems involving diagrams, graphs, data, and physical situations.
- Classical mechanics
- Electromagnetism
- Optics and wave phenomena
- Thermodynamics and statistical mechanics
- Quantum mechanics
- Atomic physics
- Special relativity
- Laboratory methods
- Specialized topics
Psychology Subject Test
The GRE Psychology Subject Test covers the core knowledge most commonly taught in undergraduate psychology courses. Questions may ask you to recall information, interpret data, apply concepts, analyze relationships, or evaluate research designs.
- Biological psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- Social psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Measurement, methodology, and other topics
GRE Subject Test Scores
Each GRE Subject Test reports a total score on a 200-990 scale in 10-point increments. Physics and Psychology tests also report percent-correct subscores for major content areas.
Scores are reportable for five years after the test date. If you retake a GRE Subject Test, the ScoreSelect option allows you to choose which scores from the last five years to send to schools.
When Are GRE Subject Tests Offered?
GRE Subject Tests are computer-delivered and are typically offered during testing windows in September, October, and April. Exact dates can change by testing year, so candidates should check the official GRE Subject Test schedule before registering.
How to Prepare for a GRE Subject Test
Start by reviewing the official content outline for your subject test. The outline shows the major content areas and the approximate weight of each area.
Then focus your study time on the topics that carry the most weight and the topics you have not reviewed recently. Because these tests are designed for students with an undergraduate major or strong background in the subject, preparation should include both concept review and practice with exam-style questions.
Use practice questions to identify weak areas, then review the underlying material before trying more questions. For the Mathematics and Physics tests especially, make sure you can solve problems efficiently without spending too much time on any one question.
Online GRE Prep Course
If you are also preparing for the general GRE, Mometrix offers an online GRE Prep Course. The course includes review lessons, practice questions, digital flashcards, instructional videos, progress tracking, and study tools designed to help you review the main GRE skill areas.
