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Applying to get your Masters Degree or your PhD is probably a trickier process than applying for any other type of graduate degree. Those who apply to law school know that – by far – the most important components of their application are their numbers: undergraduate GPA and LSAT scores, while those applying for an MBA are benefited most by a good GMAT score, a few years of work in the business world, and recommendations from former employers.

The GRE is taken by a more diverse body of people than any of the other tests required for graduate studies. Students who wish to become engineers, veterinarians, physical therapists, mathematicians, chemists, and historians are all required to take the same test. Because the test is the same, and the content so general, the actual application process requires more evidence of qualification than simply a good GRE score. So what else is needed to create a good portfolio for graduate study?

Some of the other major components can include: letters of recommendation, undergraduate GPA, private research, work experience, community service, personal statements and letters of intent, writing samples, resumes, and demonstrated interest in the institutions (taking tours, attending events, regular contact with admissions office, etc.) How important is the GRE among all of these diffuse elements?

Well, naturally, it depends on whom you ask, and what you are applying for. An article in Forbes magazine quoted the former president of St. John's College Santa Fe: “If I had to guess about professional grad school, I would say one-third each to experience, grades, and the pertinent test (e.g., GMAT, LSAT). For the natural sciences and top med schools, I would say half grades and half GRE or MCAT, with strong support from departmental recommendations.”

The article goes on to say that grades and test scores are disproportionately significant in the graduate application process, contrary to what many institutions declare on their website. A low GRE score is itself sufficient to keep you out of programs you might otherwise be qualified for. On the top end of the spectrum, the difference between a 164 and 168 are insignificant, but the difference between a 152 and a 156 could be the same as who makes the cut and who does not.

While recommendations, GPA, and experience can be as important as test scores, none of them carry the same degree of significance with regards to scholarships and other financial rewards.  A higher GRE score won’t just aid you in getting accepted, it could help you pay for grad school too.

This post was written by Next Step Test Preparation.  Next Step focuses exclusively on providing students with customized, one-on-one tutoring packages for the GRE, GMAT, and more.  Click here to learn more about how Next Step can help you.