What Is a Good GRE Score?

For most schools and fields, a good GRE score falls at the 80th percentile, or 159 verbal and 161 quantitative. Some programs accept scores as low as the 60th percentile: 154 verbal and 155 quantitative. Scores at the 90th percentile, 163 verbal and 165 quantitative, provide ample doctoral opportunities.

GRE analytical writing scores above 4.5 are acceptable, and those above 5.0 are excellent. Quantitative and verbal scores range from 130 to 170, and analytical writing scores range from zero to six. The GRE can be taken multiple times, and scores are valid for five years. GRE prep courses can prepare test takers with strategies and practice exams.