How to Increase GRE Scores: 10 Proven Tips for 320+

If you’re searching for proven ways to boost your graduate school application form, understanding increase GRE scores is important. A higher GRE score can help strengthen your profile, improve scholarship chances, and also help you stand out in competitive admission cycles.

This comprehensive 2026 guide explains how to increase GRE scores through a structured approach, effective preparation, smart study techniques, and data-driven performance analysis.

Why It’s Important to Increase GRE Scores in 2026?

Graduate admissions are becoming increasingly competitive. Universities evaluate applicants holistically, but with strong GRE performance still plays an important role in:

1. Master’s program admissions
2. STEM and business school applications
3. Merit-based scholarships
4. Funding opportunities

If your GPA is average, improving your GRE score can compensate and also enhance your overall academic profile.

Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Test First

Before starting preparation, take a full-length GRE mock test under timed conditions.

This helps you:

1. Identify current score level.
2. Understand strengths and weaknesses
3. Analyse time management issues
4. Set a realistic target score

Without this, it’s impossible to effectively increase GRE scores.

Step 2: Set a Target Score Based on Universities

Research average GRE scores for your target universities. Then you should aim 3-5 points higher to remain competitive.

For example:

1. Competitive STEM programs: 165+ Quant
2. Social Sciences: Balanced 320+
3. MBA programs: 325+ preferred.

Having a clear goal makes it easier to design a focused improvement plan.

Step 3: Understand the GRE Exam Pattern (2026)

The GRE General Test includes:

Verbal Reasoning

1. Reading Comprehension
2. Text Completion
3. Sentence Equivalence

Quantitative Reasoning

1. Arithmetic
2. Algebra
3. Geometry
4. Data Analysis

Analytical Writing

1. Issue Essay

To successfully increase GRE scores, you must master some reasoning skills rather than just memorization.

Step 4: Focus on Weak Areas First

One of the most effective strategies to increase GRE scores is allocating more time to weaker sections.

If Verbal is weak:

1. Build vocabulary daily.
2. Practice reading comprehension passages
3. Analyse argument structures.

If Quant is weak:

1. Revise the fundamentals of algebra.
2. Practice word problems.
3. Strengthen data interpretation skills.

Improving weak areas creates faster score growth than polishing strengths.

Step 5: Apply the 80/20 Rule

The Pareto Principle states that 20% of topics generate 80% of results.

To increase GRE scores, prioritise:

High-Frequency Quant Topics

1. Ratios and percentages
2. Linear equations
3. Data interpretation

High-Frequency Verbal Areas

1. Logical connectors
2. Argument tone
3. Context-based vocabulary

Step 6: Strengthen Vocabulary Systematically

Vocabulary is critical for Verbal success.

To effectively increase GRE scores in Verbal:

1. Learn 20-30 words daily
2. Use some spaced repetition
3. Practise contextual usage
4. Review root words and prefixes.

Avoid rote memorisation- some contextual understanding matters more.

Step 7: Practice Under Timed Conditions

Time pressure is a major challenge.

Average time per question would be:

1. Verbal: 1 minute 45 seconds
2. Quant: 2 minutes

Take atleast 6-8 full-length mock tests before exam day. Simulating test conditions improves endurance and confidence.

Step 8: Analyse Mistakes Thoroughly

Score improvement happens during review, not while solving.

After each mock test:

1. Categorise mistakes (this includes conceptual, careless, and timing)
2. Maintain an error log
3. Reattempt incorrect questions
4. Review weak concepts weekly.

Step 9: Build Quant Accuracy Before Speed

Accuracy above 85% significantly boosts scaled scores.

To increase GRE scores in Quant:

1. Master formulas
2. Practise medium-difficulty problems.
3. Reduce careless errors
4. Use estimation techniques strategically.

Speed improves naturally with accuracy.

Step 10: Improve Reading Comprehension Skills

Many students lose marks due to certain misinterpretations.

Strategies to increase GRE scores in Verbal:

1. Identify the core idea.
2. Recognise the tone of the author
3. Predict answers before viewing options
4. Eliminate extreme answer choices.

Active reading reduces trap errors.

Step 11: Use Official GRE Practice Materials

Always try to prioritise official ETS materials because:

1. Question patterns match the real exam
2. Scoring reflects actual scaling
3. Difficulty levels are also accurate

Reliable preparation material ensures a realistic performance assessment.

Step 12: Create a Structured 8-Week Study Plan

Week	Focus Area
1	Diagnostic + Concept Review
2	Quant Foundations
3	Verbal Vocabulary + Reading
4	Mixed Practice Sets
5	Advanced Quant & Verbal
6	Full-Length Mock Tests
7	Weak Area Reinforcement
8	Final Simulation & Revision

 

How Many Hours Are Required?

Score Increase	Recommended Study Hours
+5 points	40–60 hours
+10 points	80–100 hours
+15–20 points	150–200 hours

 

Common Mistakes That Prevent Score Growth

Common Error	What Students Often Do	Why It Hurts Your Score	Smart Strategy
Skipping Diagnostic Tests	Start preparation without assessing current level	No clarity on strengths and weaknesses	Take a full diagnostic test before starting to create a targeted study plan
Ignoring Time Management	Focus only on solving questions correctly, not within time limits	Poor pacing leads to unanswered questions	Practice timed sets and build section-wise pacing strategy
Memorising Without Understanding	Rely on formulas and shortcuts without concept clarity	Struggle with tricky or application-based questions	Understand core concepts before applying shortcuts
Taking Too Many Mock Tests Without Analysis	Attempt multiple mocks but skip reviewing mistakes	Repeat errors and limited improvement	Analyse every mock thoroughly and track recurring patterns
Neglecting Weak Sections	Spend more time on strong areas for confidence	Overall score remains unbalanced	Allocate extra practice time to weaker sections
Inconsistent Study Routine	Study irregularly with long gaps	Reduced retention and momentum	Follow a structured weekly study plan
Exam-Day Overconfidence	Assume preparation is sufficient without final revision	Avoidable mistakes during the exam	Do light revision and strategy recap before test day

 

Avoid These Preparation Errors

Error to Avoid	Why It’s a Problem	Correct Approach
Skipping Diagnostic Tests	You don’t identify strengths and weaknesses early	Take a diagnostic test first to create a focused study plan
Ignoring Time Management	Good accuracy but poor pacing lowers overall score	Practice timed sets and build a section-wise time strategy
Memorising Without Understanding	Concepts fail in tricky or application-based questions	Focus on conceptual clarity before shortcuts
Taking Too Many Mock Tests Without Analysis	Repeating mistakes without improvement	Analyse each mock thoroughly and track error patterns
Neglecting Weak Sections	Overall score remains unbalanced	Allocate extra time to improve weaker areas
Inconsistent Study Routine	Breaks momentum and reduces retention	Follow a structured and consistent study schedule

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why is taking a diagnostic test important?

A diagnostic test helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to create a focused, efficient study plan.

How does poor time management affect exam scores?

Even if you know the answers, poor pacing can lead to unanswered questions and lower overall scores.

 Is memorising formulas enough for Quant preparation?

No. Understanding the underlying concepts is essential for handling tricky, application-based questions.

How many mock tests should I take?

Quality matters more than quantity. Take regular mocks, but ensure thorough analysis after each one.

What is the biggest mistake students make with mock tests?

Many students take multiple mocks without reviewing mistakes, which limits improvement.

Should I focus more on my strong sections?

Maintain strengths, but prioritise improving weak areas to avoid an imbalance in scores.

How can I improve my time management skills?

Practice timed question sets and simulate real exam conditions regularly.

What is the key to avoiding wasted effort during preparation?

Follow a structured study plan, analyse mistakes consistently, and focus on strategic improvement rather than random practice.