GRE Tips & FAQs

Why Does GRE Coaching Matter?

Dilip Oak's Academy
GRE Coaching

Many top U.S. colleges and universities consider the GRE score part of their admissions process for their master’s courses in all fields. Most management schools have even started accepting GRE scores as part of their admission process. Even when it is optional, a college prefers students who have a high GRE score. Furthermore, GRE scores may influence scholarship, fellowships, or assistantship eligibility. So, preparing well for the GRE is crucial – that is where coaching comes in.

Why is GRE Coaching Key to Your Success?

Structured Study Plan

GRE coaching provides a well-organized and structured study plan covering all GRE sections—Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. This ensures that you focus on the right areas and progress systematically through the material.

Expert Guidance

Experienced instructors offer valuable insights, strategies, and tips for tackling complex questions. Their tips on time management can also help you work through the test more efficiently, improving your overall performance.

Comprehensive Resources

Coaching programs typically provide access to extensive resources such as study materials, practice questions, and online tools that simulate the actual GRE test environment. These resources are often more comprehensive and effective than self-study materials, giving you a significant advantage.

Personalized Feedback and Mock Tests

Through mock tests and essay evaluations, you will get personalized feedback on your performance as part of your GRE coaching. This helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your efforts where they are needed most.

Motivation and Accountability

Attending coaching also helps maintain motivation and accountability. Regular classes, assignments, and interactions with peers aiming for similar goals create an environment that keeps you on track and motivated to succeed.

Classroom vs. Online Coaching: Which is Right for You?

The choice between GRE classroom coaching and GRE online coaching depends on your learning style and lifestyle. Here are some advantages of each to help you make a more informed decision:

Classroom coaching

    • Offers in-person interaction with instructors

    • Provides a structured schedule and a collaborative learning environment

    • Helps maintain discipline with in-person engagement and access to resources

Online Coaching

    • Offers flexibility, allowing you to learn from anywhere

    • Ideal for those with busy schedules, jobs, or other commitments

    • Often more cost-effective, saving money on commuting and other expenses

A high GRE score can significantly impact your application, especially in competitive fields. Coaching can give you the edge you need to achieve those top scores that will stand out to the admissions committee. It also gives you the expert knowledge, personalized support and tools needed to approach the GRE with confidence and skill. Whether you choose classroom or online coaching, the right guidance can make all the difference in your GRE preparation. In conclusion, GRE coaching is a valuable investment in your future.

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, as well as GRE Self Prep. Furthermore, our admission counseling services can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. To enroll in our comprehensive overseas education consultancy services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

GRE Quantitative Reasoning Overview On Question Types and Tips

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GRE Quantitative Reasoning

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE tests your ability to interpret and analyze quantitative information and solve problems using mathematical models. Before you start preparing for the test, it is very important to understand the format of the test. This blog will introduce you to different question types, which will significantly boost your confidence and performance. The Dilip Oak’s Online test screenshots will also give you a good idea of what these formats look like when you take the GRE computer-based test.

Here’s a breakdown of the various question types you’ll encounter and tips on tackling them.

Multiple-Choice Questions (Single Answer)

  • These are the traditional multiple-choice questions where you select one correct answer from five options.
  • The options are in the form of radio buttons, as they only allow a single selection.

Tip: Think about the maximum and minimum values the quantities can take to see if the relationship holds in all cases.

GRE Quant: Multiple-Choice Questions (Single Answer)

Multiple-Choice Questions (Multiple Answers)

  • These questions are accompanied by checkboxes and require you to select one or more answers.
  • You must choose all correct answers to get credit; there is no partial credit.

Tip: Review all options to ensure you have marked all the correct responses.

GRE Quantitative Reasoning: Multiple-Choice Questions (Multiple Answer)

Numeric Entry Questions

  • Numeric Entry questions require you to enter your answer in a box rather than selecting from multiple choices.
  • The answer can be in any format: whole numbers, decimals, or fractions.

Tip: Pay careful attention to the format in which you are expected to enter the answer.

GRE Quant: Numeric Entry Questions

Quantitative Comparison Questions

  • Quantitative Comparison questions ask you to compare two quantities — Quantity A and Quantity B — and determine the relationship between them.
  • You’ll choose one of the following options:
    • Quantity A is greater
    • Quantity B is greater
    • The two quantities are equal
    • The relationship cannot be determined from the information given

Tip: Think about the maximum and minimum values the quantities can take to see if the relationship holds in all cases.

GRE Quantitative Reasoning: Quantitative Comparison Questions

General Strategies while preparing for the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE:

  • Understand the Basics: Review fundamental math concepts, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
  • Strengthen your concepts: Focus on understanding concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.
  • Practice Mental Math: Quick calculations can save time, so practice mental math to increase your speed.
  • Practice Regularly: Use practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question formats and time constraints. Identify your weak areas and devote extra time to those topics.
  • Manage Your Time: The Quant section is timed, so practice pacing yourself to complete all questions within time.

Tips for acing the Quantitative Reasoning Section of the GRE:

  • Double-Check Work: If time permits, double-check your calculations to avoid careless mistakes.
  • Use Scratch Paper: Work out the problem on scratch paper to avoid mistakes when transferring your answer.
  • Estimate and Simplify: Look for ways to simplify the expressions or use estimation to compare the quantities quickly.
  • Plug in Numbers: Substitute values for variables to test the relationship. This is particularly useful if the question involves variables without specific numbers.
  • Move on: Don’t spend too much time on any one question; move on and come back if time permits.
  • Use the On-Screen Calculator: The GRE provides an on-screen calculator for the Quant section. Use it for complex calculations, but don’t rely on it for simple arithmetic: mental math will save you more time.
  • Stay Calm and Focused: Keep calm and maintain your focus throughout the test. Anxiety can lead to simple mistakes.

Mastering the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE requires practice, strategic thinking, and a solid understanding of basic math concepts. By familiarizing yourself with the different question types and employing effective strategies, you can improve your performance and achieve your desired GRE score. Happy studying!

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

Right time to take the GRE: A Comprehensive Guide to Timing and Preparation

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GRE preparation and timing

As you prepare to show off your reading, math, and writing skills on the GRE, it is important to know that this decision depends on a few things, like your school background, what you want to do in your career, and how ready you feel for the test. This blog will guide you through everything you need about the GRE preparation timeline.

Understanding the GRE:

The GRE General Test checks your skills in three main areas: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These skills indicate your ability to do well in college and at work. Let’s break down what each of these skills means:

Verbal Reasoning:

This part of the GRE looks at how well you know high-level English vocabulary, analyze written information and understand relationships among ideas. For example, you might be asked to read a passage and answer questions about its main idea or the author’s point of view.

Quantitative Reasoning:

This part of the test checks how good you are at math. It looks at elementary concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It also looks at your ability to interpret quantitative information and solve complex problems using mathematical models. For instance, you might have to solve equations or analyze graphs to answer questions in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning Section.

Why GRE Preparation is Important:

The GRE test can still be tough even if you are good at English, math, and writing because there is limited time to solve each question, and the level of language and vocabulary is high. That’s why studying and preparing for the test is important.

How long should you study for the GRE?

When it comes to the GRE, preparation is key to achieving success on the exam. So, it is best to give yourself about four months to prepare for the GRE. Let’s break this down further:

Practice Makes Perfect:

While individual study habits and schedules may vary from person to person, you will become more familiar with the test format and improve your performance by dedicating time to study and practice.

Identify Weaknesses:

Practice tests can help you identify areas where you need improvement, allowing you to focus your studying where it is needed most.

Boost Confidence:

The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel on test day, which can positively impact your performance.

Avoid Cramming:

Don’t try to cram all your studying into just two weeks, as that can lead to burnout, and you might not remember everything well. Instead, spread your study sessions over a longer time to help you remember things better.

Also read our blog on Financing your master’s program in the USA.

When should you take the GRE?

Choosing your GRE preparation timeline depends on your goals and deadlines. If you plan to go to grad school right after graduation in India, taking the GRE in the pre-final year of your graduation is a good idea. This gives you time to prepare without worrying about your final-year projects or internships. Plus, your GRE score is good for five years, so you can use it even if you wait a bit before applying to school.

However, that may not always be possible. So, let’s break down some scenarios:

Pre-Final Year Student:

If you are currently a pre-final year student thinking about studying in the USA in August (Fall) 2025, it is best to take your GRE test before the end of September 2024. This gives you about 8-10 weeks to write a Statement of Purpose, get recommendation letters, and take the TOEFL or IELTS exam. This will also give you time to retake the GRE if you want to improve your GRE score. Please note that you can take the GRE only once every 21 days and up to five times a year. Your official GRE score will come about 8 to 10 days after the test.

Final-Year Student:

For final-year students graduating around June 2024 and planning to start their master’s program in the USA in August (Fall) 2025, you should start preparing for the GRE in May/June 2024. Depending on when you feel ready, you can take the test anytime between September and November 2024. This will help you to still meet the deadlines by December 31, 2024.

Working Professionals:

If you are a working professional or want to work for a few years after graduation before studying abroad, it is best to start preparing 8 to 10 months before the deadline. This gives you enough time to balance work and study commitments. Joining a weekend class at Dilip Oak’s Academy one of the best GRE preparation classes in Pune and practicing during the week would be a good way to get GRE-ready.

Ultimately, deciding when to take the GRE depends on your circumstances and goals. By breaking down the preparation process and using examples, this guide aims to make it easier for you to plan and prepare effectively for the exam. Good luck!

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

GRE Vocabulary: Ethan’s Garden – Cultivating Hope in a Small Town

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GRE high-frequency words - Ethan's garden

Immerse yourself in a narrative rich with GRE high-frequency words, designed to enhance your GRE vocabulary skills while enjoying a captivating story of resilience and community spirit as Ethan navigates challenges, perseveres, and cultivates hope in a small town.

A Rural Haven

In the bucolic (rural) countryside of a small town, there lived a diligent (hard-working) and estimable (admirable) young man named Ethan. Ethan was known for his scrupulous (meticulous) attention to detail and his fervent (passionate) desire to ameliorate (improve) the lives of those around him. Despite the morose (gloomy) atmosphere that often hung over the town due to its precarious (unstable) economic situation, Ethan remained ebullient (cheerful) and hopeful, always harboring (maintaining) a fervor (enthusiasm) for positive change.

A Seed of Inspiration

One day, while perusing (reading) the local newspaper, Ethan stumbled upon an advertisement that caught his attention. It touted (promoted) a new initiative aimed at bolstering (strengthening) the town’s economy through the creation of a community garden. The idea was met with vociferous (loud) support from some residents but was met with disdain (contempt) from others who found it frivolous (unimportant) and spendthrift (wasteful), given the town’s current predicament (situation).

Ethan’s Determination

Undeterred (not discouraged) by the vociferous dissent (disagreement), Ethan decided to take matters into his own hands. He embarked (started) on a sedulous (careful) campaign to mollify (calm) the skeptics and galvanize (motivate) support for the project. With meticulous (careful) planning and an effervescent (enthusiastic) demeanor (behavior), he managed to win over even the most sanctimonious (self-righteous) critics.

Overcoming Opposition

Despite his initial success, Ethan faced myriad (numerous) obstacles along the way. Some accused him of being a spendthrift, others derided (mocked) his efforts as impractical and ostentatious (showy). Nevertheless, Ethan remained impervious (unaffected) to their criticism, determined to see his vision through to fruition (completion).

The Blossoming of Hope

As the days passed, Ethan’s efforts began to burgeon (expand rapidly). The community garden, once an arcane (mysterious) idea, now stood as a symbol of hope and resilience (strength) in the town. Ethan’s perseverance (persistence) and pragmatism (practicality) had paid off, and the garden became a bustling (busy) hub of activity, a testament (proof) to the efficacy (effectiveness) of his leadership.

Lessons Learned

In the end, Ethan’s endeavor (project) was not merely about cultivating crops but about fostering (encouraging) a sense of community and camaraderie (friendship) in a town plagued by divisiveness (division) and apathy (lack of interest). His story became an allegory (symbolic representation) for the power of perseverance in the face of adversity, a lesson that resonated (had an impact) far beyond the confines (limits) of the small town.

Ethan’s Garden has introduced you to over 50 GRE high-frequency words, enhancing your GRE vocabulary while captivating you with a tale of resilience. Remember, learning is ongoing. Keep exploring new words, deepening your understanding, and letting stories like Ethan’s inspire you. With each word learned, you’re not only expanding your GRE vocabulary but also your communication skills. So, let Ethan’s story be just the start of your journey into the world of words. Keep learning, keep growing, and watch your GRE vocabulary flourish like Ethan’s garden.

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, as well as GRE Self Prep. Furthermore, our admission counseling services can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. To enroll in our comprehensive overseas education consultancy services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

Maximizing GRE Success: 7 Tips for Choosing the Best GRE Online Coaching Classes

Dilip Oak's Academy

In this digital age, online coaching classes have become a popular choice for Graduate Record Examination (GRE) preparation. The convenience of studying from the comfort of your home and the flexibility of online learning make it an attractive option for many GRE aspirants. However, with so many online coaching options, selecting the best one can be daunting. In this blog, we’ll explore seven crucial tips to guide you in choosing the best GRE online coaching classes that align with your goals and learning preferences.

1. Research the Reputation:

Start your journey by looking into the reputation of online coaching classes. Conduct thorough research, read reviews, and explore testimonials from students who have undergone the program. Reputable platforms often have a track record of success, and their alumni can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the online coaching experience. Also, ask for feedback from your college seniors and consider their experiences in making an informed decision.

2. Online Instruction Expertise

The quality of instruction plays a pivotal role in the effectiveness of an online coaching program. Look for platforms with experienced instructors with a proven track record in online GRE preparation. Online instruction requires a unique skill set, and instructors who can effectively convey complex concepts through digital mediums enhance the overall learning experience.

3. Engaging Learning Environment:

Effective online coaching classes should foster an interactive and engaging learning environment. Features such as live sessions, discussion forums, and interactive quizzes can enhance your understanding of GRE concepts. Assess the platform’s commitment to creating an interactive space that simulates the engagement of a physical classroom.

4. Comprehensive Study Materials:

Evaluate the availability and quality of study materials offered by the online coaching platform. A comprehensive set of materials, including books, online question banks, practice tests, and video lectures, is essential for a well-rounded GRE preparation. Ensure the materials align with the latest GRE format and cover all relevant content areas.

5. Interactive Doubt-solving Sessions:

Choose platforms that prioritize regular doubt-solving sessions. This will allow you to get clarification on challenging topics that can significantly enhance your understanding of GRE concepts. So, look for coaching classes that schedule interactive doubt-solving sessions to cater to individual learning needs.

6. Adaptive Mock Tests:

Practice tests are a crucial component of GRE preparation, and online coaching classes should offer a robust set of good-quality mock tests. Also, ensure the mock tests align with the latest GRE format. Regularly taking simulated GRE tests and analyzing your performance can help identify areas for improvement and refine your test-taking strategies.

7. Free Demo Classes:

Opt for platforms that offer free trials or sample classes. This allows you to experience the teaching style, platform interface, and overall learning environment before committing to the full program. Free trials help you make an informed decision based on firsthand experience.

Selecting the best GRE online coaching classes requires careful consideration and research. By focusing on factors such as the platform’s reputation, instructor expertise in online instruction, interactive learning features, comprehensive study materials, doubt-solving sessions, mock tests, and free demo classes, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your learning style and preferences.

Remember that the right online coaching class can significantly impact your GRE preparation journey. It’s not just about the content but the overall learning experience. Invest time in exploring your options, and choose an online coaching class that not only equips you with the knowledge needed to ace the GRE but also enhances your skills and confidence in navigating the digital realm of education. Your success in the GRE is within reach with the right online coaching platform.

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of services, including GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, as well as GRE Self Prep. Furthermore, our admission counseling services can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. To enroll in our comprehensive overseas education consultancy services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

Explaining the New Shorter GRE and Its Implications for Test-Takers

Dilip Oak's Academy

For many years, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) has served as a crucial first step for students planning to pursue graduate study in the United States. This year, the GRE will be shorter thanks to a series of reforms. The test will have shorter versions of each section, but will still accurately assess test takers’ verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. If you plan to take the GRE General Test after September 2023, you should familiarize yourself with these changes and prepare accordingly. The following is a comprehensive summary of all the key modifications to the new, shorter GRE:

Change 1: Reduced Number of Questions and Shorter Testing Period

The length of the GRE General Test has been reduced from 4 hours to 1 hour and 58 minutes. This is a significant change aimed at improving test-takers’ concentration and decreasing test fatigue. The reduced time has been achieved by implementing the following changes in the test.

Reduced number of questions: The number of questions in the Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning tests will be reduced. The number of questions in each section will drop from 40 to 27. These 27 questions will be broken up into 12 and 15 for for Section 1 and 2 respectively. This change applies to both quantitative reasoning and verbal reasoning. Despite the reduction in total number of questions, the average time allotted for each question has remained unchanged.

Removal of ‘argument’ section: “Analyze an argument” task has been removed from the analytical writing section. Moving forward, the AWM section will only have the “analyze an issue” task. As a result, you’ll only have to write only one essay.

Removal of the Unscored section: The GRE currently has an unscored section that is used for evaluation of questions by ETS. This section will be removed from the new, shorter GRE, as it does not affect the test taker’s final score.

No Scheduled Breaks: The current 10-minute break after the two hours of the test will be eliminated because the new test time will be less than 2 hours.  Those taking the GRE at a testing center can still take unscheduled breaks; however, the clock will not stop. Exemptions to this policy will be made for test takers with disabilities or health-related needs.Online examinees are not permitted to take unscheduled breaks during the exam.

Change 2: faster Reporting of Test Results

Official GRE scores will be reported to test takers within 8-10 days after the exam. This is a significant improvement over the previous time frame of ten and fifteen calendar days. In the long run, this will save time for those filling out applications.

What won’t change as the GRE moves from its current format to a shorter one?

Despite the fact that the GRE General Test will be shorter, many features will remain unchanged. Given below are the important aspects of the test that won’t be changing:

  • The basic structure of the GRE, including the presence of Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning sections, will remain unchanged.
  • Scoring: All three sections will use the same scoring procedure, and the shorter test will use the same performance scales as the current test.
  • The shorter GRE will still be section adaptive I. e., the difficulty level of the second section will be based on your performance in the first section.
  • Although the GRE has been shortened, testing fees have not changed.
  • Graduate and professional schools will use scores from the GRE General Test similarly, regardless of the length.
  • As before, you can retake the GRE General Test up to five times in any rolling 12-month period (365 days), with a maximum of one attempt every 21 days.
  • Your GRE scores will be considered valid for five years after your test date.

Why the ETS is changing the test format

These changes are based on feedback from previous test takers and are the result of expert analysis about how a better experience could be introduced for test takers while retaining the strong validity and reliability that universities expect.

Applying to graduate and professional programs is time-consuming. While you want to show your potential in a comprehensive way, you also want to get through your application checklist ASAP. Shortening the test will help students to stay focused and reduce fatigue. The shorter test will also allow ETS to deliver GRE scores faster. Students can complete their applications sooner as well.

What is yet to be announced?

Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning have had their total number of questions cut down to 27, but how those questions will be distributed among the subsections such as sentence equivalence, text completion and  reading comprehension in verbal section, remains to be seen.

We also don’t yet have details on how the scoring algorithm might adapt to the reduced number of questions.

Which version of the test should you take- Shorter GRE vs. Current GRE

You should weigh your application deadlines against your personal preferences when deciding between the shorter GRE and the current GRE. The current GRE will be phased out on September 22, 2023, in favor of the shorter GRE. If your application deadline is early October or earlier, you should probably take the current GRE. However, if you have more time and your application deadlines are not pressing, you may want to take the shorter GRE because of its streamlined format.

At Dilip Oak’s Academy, We also provide detailed guidance on these processes under our Admission Counseling Services, including a selection of universities, documentation process and visa counseling, and mock visa interviews. In addition, as India’s leading Study Abroad Consultants, we have helped more than 33,000 students to secure their dream admits for various universities in America including MIT, Stanford, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon and other top-ranked universities.

We also offer GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, GRE Self Prep and guide students with university selection, application essays, and visa counseling under our Admission Counseling Services for USA, Germany and UK.  To enroll, call us on 91-020-67444222, 91-8007878495

Boost your GRE Prep with Dilip Oak’s customized study plans

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One of the most important steps in preparing for the GRE is planning your study schedule.  A structured prep plan is very important to systematically cover all the topics, manage time, and stay focused and motivated until your test day. At Dilip Oak’s Academy, along with GRE Coaching, we guide our enrolled students to study in a methodical manner through our exclusive GRE Study Plans.

Depending upon your GRE date (ETS registered/tentative), we provide you with a customized study plan for either 1 month, 1.5 months, 2 months, 2.5 months, 3 months, 3.5 months or 4 months.

Each study plan includes a step-by-step preparatory guide with day-wise and week-wise guidelines for Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Sections of the GRE.

While each study plan varies according to the duration, it broadly includes:

  • Vocabulary Learning and Practice
  • Verbal Reasoning strategies and practice
  • Quantitative Reasoning strategies and practice
  • AWM essays brainstorming
  • ETS Material Practice

All the study plans comprise rigorous learning and practice modules for each of the above sections. To help you keep a track of your preparation, we also send you daily and weekly goal-setting reminders.

The study plans also include access to our exclusive online learning tools: Focused Practice, Mixed Practice and CBTs that help you study in a more organized manner and allow you to track your progress.

Focused Practice

  1. Reinforcement of the classroom coaching by helping you keep in sync with the concepts, tricks, and tips taught in the class
  2. 400+ questions for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning
  3. Topic-wise questions for Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning

Mixed Practice 

  1. Personalized Dashboard to track your progress
  2. Customized according to the question types and difficulty level
  3. Convenient timed and untimed modes for practice
  4. Instant Review and question summary
  5. In-depth explanatory answers to gauge where you stand

CBTs

  1. Actual GRE® test experience with full-length timed tests according to the ETS® pattern
  2. AW essay scores and personalized feedback by our experienced evaluators
  3. Detailed Analysis of your performance to help you gauge your strengths and weaknesses
  4. Explanatory Review to help  you understand what went wrong and how to get it right the next time

Who can avail of these study plans?

Only those students who have enrolled for GRE Coaching at Dilip Oak’s Academy can avail of these study plans. To jumpstart your GRE prep and unlock our comprehensive study plans, register for our GRE coaching (hyperlink to GRE pg)

You can then request for the suitable study plan by submitting us the details of your enrolled batch, Roll Number/student ID and GRE Test date on gre@dilipoakacademy.com or fill the study plan request form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdr35RKOlZXbFCsEI0SqzrdvnKKOpq-L_jHzEktzPhuoXRhGw/viewform

The plan will be sent directly to your inbox on your registered email ID.

What are you waiting for? Register for our upcoming GRE batches starting from 25th April and 8th May. Enroll here: https://www.dilipoakacademy.com/gre-online.html and avail your tailor-made study plans 

10 commonly asked questions about score reporting for GRE, IELTS & TOEFL

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Score Reporting for GRE, IELTS & TOEFL

The application season for Fall 2022 is at its peak, and we know that many students have doubts about sending free and additional scores to the universities. Here’s what our experts at the Academy have to say about the most common questions on score reporting for the GRE/IELTS/TOEFL tests.  

1. What is free score reporting? 

At the time of the GRE and TOEFL tests, you can mention the names of four universities and its departments for sending scores as a part of your test fee without any additional charges. It is called free score reporting. Likewise, at the time of the IELTS test, you can mention the names of five universities for free score reporting. 

2. How much will it cost to apply to universities other than the four mentioned for free score reporting? 

If you apply to universities other than these four, you will have to request additional score reports by paying charges to ETS, Princeton. The additional score report for GRE will cost $27, and for the TOEFL, it will cost you $20 per university. 

3. What is the additional score reporting fee for the IELTS? 

The additional score report for IELTS will cost you Rs 250 (for online) and Rs 1500 (by courier through IDP website)

4. When should I send my test scores to the universities? 

Once you have finalized the universities, send your score reports. They take around 7 to 15 days to reach the universities so you need to send them well before the deadlines.

5. Do I need to send my scores to universities offering GRE waivers? 

No, you need not send your scores officially but you can upload the score card with the online applications.

6. Should I send the GRE score report directly to the university or through the ETS? 

Some universities ask you to upload a scorecard at the time of the application and once you receive the admits, they ask you to submit the scores through the official ETS website.  

7. How to send the score reports of the TOEFL? 

For the TOEFL, the majority of the universities require you to submit the scores only through the official ETS website. 

8. How long are my GRE scores reportable? 

The GRE scores are reportable for five years following the test date. 9.

9. How can I order additional score reports? 

Additional score reports can be ordered either online, through your official ETS account, by mail, or by fax. 

10. Can I pay for these score reports through a debit card or online transfer?

Yes, you can pay through Credit Card, Debit Card, and PayPal. But we recommend you to pay through Credit Card.  

For any additional questions or guidance related to sending your scores, filling out the applications, and financial documentation, you can seek help from our experts by enrolling for our admission counselling services today! You can also drop us an email at support@dilipoakacademy.com and we will get back to you! 

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222. 

Taking the At-Home GRE: Guidelines and things to remember

Dilip Oak's Academy

Amid the pandemic, many of you could not take the GRE at the test centres and have had to postpone your GRE dates ahead. There is a lot of uncertainty regarding availability of test centres and test dates which is why the ETS has started the ‘GRE at Home’ edition in order to enable students to take the test from anywhere at their convenience and safety.

The ‘GRE at Home’ is identical in format and pattern to the test taken at the test center and the test dates are available seven days a week. The student has to take the test on his/her own computer at home and it will be monitored by a human proctor online through ProctorU®

To register for the test, visit https://www.ets.org/s/cv/gre/at-home/ today! 

But before you do, make sure you are aware of the technical requirements, registration process and things to do before and on the test day. In this blog, we will quickly run you through these points.

Firstly, your computer must meet the equipment requirements for the test. This will mean you have to install the ETS Test Browser and the ProctorU Systems Check on your machine (desktop/laptop). During the test, a human proctor, via video camera, will monitor you and your computer screen to ensure you follow procedures: the entire test will be recorded and your photo will be taken, which will be made available as part of your score record to the institutions you designated. Additionally, there are certain environmental parameters you must follow.

Here are the Equipment and Environment criteria in detail:

EQUIPMENT:

1] Computer:

  • Must be a desktop or laptop computer, not a tablet or mobile device
  • Cannot be a Mac® computer or use an iOS® operating system
  • Must use Windows® operating system, versions 10, 8, or 7

2] Speaker

  • Must use an internal or external speaker to hear the proctor
  • Headsets or wireless earphones are not allowed
  • Recording devices of any kind are strictly prohibited

3] Microphone

  • Must use an internal or external microphone to communicate with the proctor
  • Must not be a part of a headset
  • Recording devices of any kind are strictly prohibited

4] Camera

  • Can be a built-in camera in the computer or a separate webcam
  • The camera must be able to be moved to show the proctor a 360-degree view of the room, including your tabletop surface, before the test

5] Note-taking Materials

  • You CANNOT take notes on regular paper
  • You can take notes using a whiteboard with erasable marker or a plastic transparency sheet and erasable marker
  • You will be asked to erase all notes in view of the proctor at the end of the test

Once your equipment and systems checks are complete:

  • Download and install the ETS Test Browser on the computer you will use for the test
  • Run the ProctorU® System Check from the computer you will use for the test

ENVIRONMENT:

1] Privacy

  • You must be alone in a quiet, well-lit room
  • You cannot communicate with anyone else; no one else can enter the room during the test
  • Make sure you can be seen on camera by the proctor: DO NOT MOVE during the test as suspicious movements could invalidate your test
  • Testing in a public space such as a park, internet cafe or restaurant is not allowed

2] Tabletop and seating

  • Your computer and keyboard must be on a desk or other tabletop surface
  • The tabletop and surrounding area must be clear of all items not approved for use during the test: MOBILE PHONES, RECORDING DEVICES, HEADPHONES, EARPHONES are NOT ALLOWED
  • You must sit in a standard chair; you may not sit or lie on a bed, couch, or an overstuffed chair
  • Food and drink are not allowed during the test

3] Clothing and appearance

  • Your face must be visible: DO NOT wear sunglasses or other accessories
  • Your ears must remain visible throughout the test: DO NOT cover your hair with a hat or other items
  • DO NOT wear jewelry, tie clips, cufflinks, ornate clips, combs, barrettes, headbands, and other hair accessories
  • You must be dressed appropriately for your test: you will be monitored via camera by the proctor, and your photo will be shared with institutions that receive your scores

Important links to be followed step by step:

1] Primary link: https://www.ets.org/gre/at-home

2] Equipment and Environment Checklist: https://www.ets.org/s/cv/gre/at-home/equipment/

3] Registration with ETS: https://www.ets.org/s/cv/gre/at-home/ets-account/

4] Registration with ProctorU: https://www.ets.org/s/cv/gre/at-home/proctoru-account/

5] Testing Experience: https://www.ets.org/s/cv/gre/at-home/test-day/

 Taking the GRE® General Test at Home: On Test Day

The GRE General Test at home is the same as the GRE General Test you take at a test center. It will cost the same as taking the exam at a test center. The score delivery timing and acceptance of the scores by university programs are also the same. Once you have registered for the GRE General Test at home, on the day of the test, you must ensure the following:

Before the Test:

  • Log in to your ProctorU account at your appointment time
  • You will have up to 15 minutes after your scheduled time to begin your check in: if you have not checked in by that time, your test will be canceled and your fee will not be refunded
  • Select “Start Session”
  • Complete the authentication steps, which include showing your ID to the proctor: the name on your ID must match the name on your ETS account
  • The proctor will review the exam rules and request access to your computer screen for monitoring purposes
  • The proctor will ask you to use either a hand-held mirror or cell phone to show your computer screen
  • The proctor will ask you to use the camera on your computer to show a 360-degree view of the room, including your tabletop surface
  • When directed by the proctor, you will launch the ETS secure web browser: the password to access the test will be provided by the proctor

During the Test:

  • The test has six sections with a 10-minute break following the third section and one-minute breaks between the remaining sections
  • You are required to remain in your seat for the one-minute breaks
  • You are allowed to leave your seat during the 10-minute break: if you do not return on time, your test will be canceled and your fee will not be refunded
  • Unscheduled breaks during the at home test are not allowed

After the Test is Completed:

  • At the end of the test, you will be given the option to report or cancel your scores
  • If you choose to report your scores, you will be able to view unofficial Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores
  • You will not be able to view your Analytical Writing scores at the end of your test
  • If you elect to report your scores, you will be asked to choose up to four score recipients as part of your test fee

For more details, you can visit the official website: https://www.ets.org/s/cv/gre/at-home/ 

Things to remember: 

  • Please make sure that you are alone in the room throughout the duration of the test. If anyone enters the room, you are required to justify and this process could cause you to lose out on time 
  • Connectivity issues and other unprecedented technical glitches (power cut) can occur. Make sure you communicate it to the proctor so that you do not fall short on time
  • While solving Quant problems on the transparency sheet, remember that the space on the sheet is limited and you can only solve 3 to 4 questions at a time. Once you erase them for the next question, you cannot go back to refer to your rough work. Therefore, try to solve the problem in one go before moving on to the next
  • Make sure that you DO NOT read any RC passage/Quant problem or any text on the screen aloud as it could go against the test protocol 

Jumpstart your GRE Prep with Oak’s exclusive Study Plans

Dilip Oak's Academy

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One of the most important steps in preparing for the GRE is planning your study schedule.  Many a time, despite being fast learners, students fail to score high in the GRE only because of haphazard study methods. A structured prep plan helps you to systematically cover all the topics, manage time, and stay focused and motivated until your test day. At Dilip Oak’s Academy, along with GRE Coaching, we guide our enrolled students to study in a methodical manner through our exclusive GRE Study Plans.

Depending upon your GRE date (ETS registered/tentative), we provide you with a customized study plan for either 1 month, 1.5 months, 2 months, 2.5 months, 3 months, 3.5 months or 4 months.

Each study plan includes a step-by-step preparatory guide with day wise and week wise guidelines for Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Sections of the GRE.

While each study plan varies according to the duration, it broadly includes:

  • Vocabulary Learning and Practice
  • Verbal Reasoning strategies and practice
  • Quantitative Reasoning strategies and practice
  • AWM essays brainstorming
  • ETS Material Practice

All the study plans comprise rigorous learning and practice modules for each of the above sections. To help you keep a track of your preparation, we also send you daily and weekly goal-setting reminders.

Along with these, the study plans also include access to our exclusive online learning tools: Focused Practice, Test Prep and CBTs that help you study in a more organized manner and allow you to track your progress.

Focused Practice

  1. Reinforcement of the classroom coaching by helping you keep in sync with the concepts, tricks, and tips taught in the class
  2. 400+ questions for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning
  3. Topic-wise questions for Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning

Test Prep

  1. Personalized Dashboard to track your progress
  2. Customized according to the question types and difficulty level
  3. Convenient timed and untimed modes for practice
  4. Instant Review and question summary
  5. In-depth explanatory answers to gauge where you stand

CBTs

  1. Actual GRE® test experience with full-length timed tests according to the ETS® pattern
  2. AW essay scores and personalized feedback by our experienced evaluators
  3. Detailed Analysis of your performance to help you gauge your strengths and weaknesses
  4. Explanatory Review to help  you understand what went wrong and how to get it right the next time

Who can avail the study plans?

Only those students who have enrolled for GRE Coaching at Dilip Oak’s Academy can avail these study plans. To jumpstart your GRE prep and unlock our comprehensive study plans, register for our Online GRE Coaching.

You can then request for the suitable study plan by submitting us the details of your enrolled batch, Roll Number and GRE Test date on gre@dilipoakacademy.com.

The plan will be sent directly to your inbox on your registered email ID.

What are you waiting for? Register for our October 1 GRE batch here: https://www.dilipoakacademy.com/gre-online.html and along with study plans, avail 30% discount on the coaching fees!

 

 

The SMART way to boost your GRE Prep (part 2)

Dilip Oak's Academy

In our earlier blog, dated 20/07/2020, we laid the groundwork for the preparation of the Quantitative Reasoning Section. Today, we will study the SMART way to fine-tune your GRE preparation and achieve the desired score.

Solve

  • Use your scrap paper effectively. Develop a habit of solving the questions stepwise and systematically as it will help you on your actual test day.
  • Stick to one source of material throughout the course of study.

Manage 

You are expected to complete 20 Questions in 35 minutes for the Quant section that averages nearly less than 90 seconds per question.

Ensure that you understand all the concepts irrespective of the time taken. Starting your preparation well on time would ensure that you have enough time to master all your concepts.

  • Once the concepts are clear, aim to solve questions in a stipulated time frame.
  • A well-devised study plan will set you right on track. In short ‘Plan Your Work And Work Your Plan’

Adapt 

Understand the different question types and their nuances so that you can use suitable techniques for solving them.

  • The GRE questions are relatively easy to solve but sometimes difficult to comprehend because of their verbosity (complex and confusing construction). So read the questions carefully to reveal the hidden concept/s, which, most of the time, may be very familiar.
  • Sometimes, questions that seem relatively easy have some trap set for you, and most of the students fall for it. The answer choices are also designed in such a way that they lead you to a trap.

Review 

  • Note down important formulae, theorems, properties, etc.
  • Maintain a log of topics you have covered and classify them based on their difficulty level so that you can focus accordingly.

Train 

We need to understand some factors which may affect our performance on the actual Test Day.

Get rid of your mental blocks like examination phobia and loss of confidence. Discussing with the faculty members or counselors could help.

Train yourself to remain undaunted even if you come across difficult questions in the beginning because the difficulty level of the questions keeps changing and you may get a simpler question subsequently. We strongly suggest you take our 5 practice tests (CBTs) to boost your confidence. Our CBTs are designed as per the ETS pattern and the score you obtain could give you an idea of your actual GRE score.  

Remember, consistency and hard work are the two main elements required for success in any field. Using the SMART approach discussed above will set you on track for your preparations for the GRE.

Amidst the pandemic, when do I take the GRE and start my application process?

Dilip Oak's Academy

Spring 2021

The coronavirus pandemic has severely affected education systems worldwide, and most US universities have moved to online coaching for the fall 2020 session. If you are planning to join an American university in the spring 2021 semester, be aware that this has a few downsides. So it would be a good idea to postpone your plans to the fall 2021.

Firstly, it will not be possible to give the GRE in July due to the ongoing lockdown, and the chances of giving it in August are also bleak. Therefore, it will be difficult to complete the application process before 31st August which is generally the deadline for spring 2021. Secondly, there is no guarantee that your visa will be processed in time or that you will be able to join for the spring semester.

A ‘GRE at Home’ option has been made available but it is not feasible: for one, the stringent equipment prerequisites are difficult to meet and further, questions are being raised about the fairness of online tests.

Considering this, it is safer and wiser to prepare for fall 2021, for which, you must take the GRE before mid-Jan 2021. Most universities also accept scores until March end so; you can plan to take the test accordingly. To help you kick start your preparation, we offer online coaching for GRE which is at par with classroom coaching. Our online classes are interactive, and over 1000 students have already enrolled with us. Check out our GRE online batches here: https://www.dilipoakacademy.com/gre-online.html

Meanwhile, you can proceed with your application process. Aim to finish it by March 2021, before the university deadlines. At Dilip Oak’s Academy, we also provide admission counselling and guide you through the entire application process. For details, visit: https://www.dilipoakacademy.com/study-in-usa.html