Best GRE Study Material 2025: Free GRE Prep Books
The GRE is a highly competitive exam administered by ETS for students aspiring to pursue MS, MBA, or PhD programs at some of the top global universities. This includes the USA, the UK, Canada, Germany, and other European countries. Success in the GRE depends on good preparation, which is made possible by using the right GRE study materials.
High-quality GRE study materials, including official ETS guides, comprehensive prep books, and free online practice tests, among other resources, can be utilized for adequate GRE preparation. Let us learn more!
GRE Test Content & Structure
The GRE currently lasts for 1 hour and 28 minutes. The Analytical Writing section is first, followed by two Verbal and two Quantitative sections with no in-between breaks.
| Section | Questions & Tasks | Duration | What It Tests |
| Analytical Writing | 1 “Analyze an Issue” essay | 30 minutes | Critical thinking, argument structuring, and articulation. |
| Verbal Section 1 | 12 questions | 18 minutes | Reading comprehension, vocab, analysis |
| Verbal Section 2 | 15 questions | 23 minutes | Main ideas, sentence completion, details |
| Quant Section 1 | 12 questions | 21 minutes | Basic math, algebra and data |
| Quant section 2 | 15 questions | 26 minutes | Advanced quantitative concepts |
Read Also: GRE Exam Pattern
Choosing the Best GRE Study Materials
Quality study materials are linked directly to GRE scores and readiness. Opt for resources that accurately reflect the actual GRE difficulty and provide comprehensive explanations, as well as effective strategies.
Key Features to Look for
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| Accurate Practice | Replicates GRE difficulty as well as format |
| Detailed Explanations | Clarifies the correct answers and also fixes the mistakes |
| Strategies | Approach with accuracy under time constraints |
| Availability (Free or Paid) | Select what suits your budget and needs. |
Recommended Free GRE Study Materials
- ETS Math Conventions: Learn math symbols, notations, and conventions for GRE.
- ETS Math Review: For comprehensive skill-building across different math topics.
- GRE Verbal & Quantitative Guides: Free, downloadable guides that cover question types as well as formats.
- Khan Academy: Videos about math, essay writing, and comprehension tips- which is ideal for foundational review.
- Vocabulary Flashcards/Apps: A strong vocabulary is essential for half the verbal section. Using reputable sources like Magoosh and Manhattan.
Read Also: GRE Syllabus
Top Paid GRE Study Materials 2025
| Materials | Highlights |
| Official Guide to the GRE General Test (ETS) | Authentic questions, two full-length paper tests. |
| Official GRE Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions | 150+ high-quality verbal questions with tips |
| Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions | 150+ quant questions |
| Official GRE Mentor Course | 640+ questions, developed by ETS |
| Princeton Review GRE Premium Prep,2024 | Covers all sections with full-length online tests. |
Practice Tests: Your Path to Success
GRE Study materials should reflect the quality, detail, and interface of GRE questions.
| Practice Test | Source | Features | Price |
| Powerprep Online | ETS | 2 timed, full-length official tests | Free |
| ETS Paper Exams | ETS | Retired questions and authentic scores | Free |
| Magoosh GRE Practice Test | Magoosh | Full-length, instant scoring and analysis | Free |
| Kaplan Free GRE Practice Test | Kaplan | Realistic interface and results breakdown | Free |
| Manhattan Prep Practice Test | Manhattan | Renowned quality and strong explanations | Free/Paid |
| Mometrix Practice Test | Mometrix | 80 questions, answer explanations | Free |
Best Practices:
- Use practice tests early and late to monitor your performance.
- Score analysis reveals both strengths and weaknesses that require improvement.
- Opt for full-length, timed tests for a more accurate simulation.
How to Use GRE Study Materials Effectively?
- Selection of Quality Content: Limit yourself to top-rated resources for more efficiency.
- Create a Study Plan: Focus on the weaker topics and avoid neglecting the challenging areas.
- Regular Practice: Spend at atleast an hour daily reviewing, practicing, and self-testing.
- Test Yourself: Begin with a diagnostic test, schedule periodic full-length mock exams, track your progress, and adjust your focus as needed.
- Review your mistakes properly and try to understand where you went wrong and why.
- For better time management, simulate a real test-like setting to practice pacing and stamina.
Read Also: GRE Preparation
IMS Manya: Your Partner for GRE Preparation
IMS Manya is a leading GRE coaching and study material provider trusted by thousands of aspirants worldwide:
- The GRE study materials by IMS Manya are of high quality, featuring updated study guides that are meticulously crafted.
- Led by an expert team of GRE experts, offering personalized mentorship as well as strategy sessions.
- Access to Practice Tests: IMS Manya includes multiple full-length and sectional mock tests with detailed answer explanations, enabling students to simulate real test conditions and identify areas for improvements.
- Flexible Learning Options: With online as well as offline classes, self-study materials, and mobile app access.
- Focus on Time Management: Time-tested strategies are taught for boosting accuracy across sections.
Final Tips for GRE Success
- Prioritize official ETS materials for a more authentic practice, but also supplement those with other resources for broader coverage.
- Taking multiple timed practice tests for a more comfortable experience.
- Use detailed explanations to address patterns for mistakes.
Read Also: GRE Exam Date
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best study material for the GRE?
The best GRE study material includes ETS official guides, Princeton Review, Manhattan Prep, Magoosh, and IMS Manya resources.
Is GRE harder than GMAT?
The GRE and GMAT differ in their focus: the GRE tests verbal, quantitative, and writing skills, while the GMAT focuses more on quantitative and integrated reasoning.
How to Score 320 on the GRE in 1 Month?
Scoring 320 in one month requires focused study, daily full-length practice, targeted improvement in weak areas, and a disciplined approach to time management.
Is 282 a bad GRE score?
A 282 GRE score is below the competitive range for top programs but may be suitable for some less selective universities.
Is 313 a good GRE score?
A 313 GRE score is above average and competitive for many graduate programs, though top schools prefer higher scores.
What is the top 1% GRE score?
The top 1% GRE score is typically around 330-340, indicating exceptional performance in verbal and quantitative sections.
Is it easy to get 340 on GRE?
Achieving a perfect 340 GRE score is very challenging, requiring excellent preparation, strong test skills, and consistent practice.
