GRE 2025 Cutoff for Top Universities in the World

GRE

Talk to Expert Icon Mobile
Raj Vimal
Updated on Jun 17, 2025 17:28 IST

By Raj Vimal, Study Abroad Expert

Candidates should note that the conducting body of the GRE test, ETS does not publish pre-defined GRE Cut Off for universities worldwide. The candidates need to check the minimum required score for every university separately. Universities that accept GRE scores release the minimum required marks on their official website. A higher GRE Score than the pre-defined cut-off would increase the chances of candidates' admission even perhaps getting a scholarship based on their academic records. The GRE is one of the most widely recognized graduate examinations for candidates looking to pursue higher studies abroad.

GRE cut off
Q:   What is GRE Exam cut off?
A: 

The GRE cutoff score is the minimum required score that varies by university. A higher GRE score can increase your chances of admission to top universities worldwide, but it's not the only factor considered. The maximum possible GRE score is 340. The closer your score is to this maximum, the chances of getting admission in top universities is stronger.

Q:   What is a good GRE score out of 340?
A: 

The ideal score depends on the university you are targeting for admission. You have to get 320 or above out of 340,  for getting easy admission in to the top universities worldwide. Keep in mind that score equal to or above 75 percentile is considered good enough to apply for admission.

Q:   What is the best GRE score to get admission in a good university?
A: 

300+ score in Graduate Record Examination is a good score for getting admission in a reputed university. Here it is important to understand that a good GRE score can increase the chances of your admission but not gurantee it. There are some other factors such as academic performance, SOP, LOR, and score in language proficiency exams.

Q:   What is a good GRE score for Caltech?
A: 

GRE is not highly required for caltech but however it is in certain courses. The University has termed GRE into three segements that is R for required, O for optional and SR for strongry required. Students must read all the requirements of the courses to avoid the last minutre confusion and hassle.

Want to score good in GRE? Check out GRE preparation tips 

Note: To check out which subjects require GRE, applicants must check the admission highlights and click on the GRE pdf caltech

 

Q:   How can I get into a top graduate school with a low GRE score?
A: 

Getting into a top graduate school with a low GRE score is challenging but not impossible. The admissions committee of foreign universities considers multiple factors when making admission decisions. While a GRE score is an important factor, it is not the only criterion. Here are some ways to strengthen your application even with a low GRE score:

  • Highlight a Strong Academic Record
  • Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
  • Gain Relevant Work or Research Experience
Table of content
  • What is GRE Cutoff?
  • GRE Cutoff for the Top Universities in the World
  • What is a Good GRE Score?
GRE Logo

What is GRE Cutoff?

Candidates planning to pursue MS Studies and MBA abroad would require GRE scores as part of their admission process. As mentioned earlier, the ETS (Educational Testing Service) has not laid down any fixed cut-off for the GRE. Each year, over half a million candidates from 160 countries appear for the GRE General Test across 1,000 test centres.

Over 1,200 business schools around the world accept GRE scores for graduate programmes. The exam has been developed to evaluate the verbal, analytical and mathematical skills of the candidates appearing for the GRE test. GRE is available in a computer-based format at a test centre or at home via the GRE at Home format and has a user-friendly design. Individuals applying to graduate schools in order to pursue a Master of Science (MS) or MBA are required to take the GRE exam.

GRE Total Marks

GRE Sections Minimum GRE Scores Maximum GRE Scores
Analytical Writing 0 6
Verbal Reasoning  130 170
Quantitative Reasoning  130 170
GRE total marks 260 340

*Analytical Writing is not part of your total GRE score. 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is a good GRE score for top universities?
A: 

Any score above 320 is considered good for admission to top universities worldwide. However, securing admission also depends on several other factors, such as:

  • A Strong Academic Record
  • An Impressive Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Relevant Work or Research Experience
  • Extracurricular Achievements
Q:   What is GRE exam for?
A: 

GRE or Graduate Record Examination is a standardized computer based exam conducted by the by Educational Testing Service (ETS). Many top business schools in the world offer admission in Business programs on the basis of GRE Score. This test access the aptitude of a student for abstract thinking. Score equal to 160 or above is a good enough to get admission in various courses. There are two types of GRE tests.

  1. GRE General Test
  2. GRE Subject Test

Also, students can take the GRE exam at home.

Q:   Is there any cut off percentage for the eligibility of GRE exam?
A: 

There is no official eligibility for GRE Exam. Students of any age with any educational background can appear for the exam. However, the GRE is an assessment test for admission to graduate courses, students should complete their undergraduate courses to go ahead with their GRE test. Note that, there is no predefined cut-off score required in graduation to appear in the Graduate Record Examination. 

Q:   What is the cut off score for GRE?
A: 

The ETS does not release the GRE cut-off after every exam. The GRE score required for admission varies depending on the university and programme you're applying to. It is natural that the top universities in the world tend to have higher GRE exam score requirements than less competitive programs. So, check the university's website for this.

Q:   What is the maximum and minimum score in GRE to get admission for MS in USA?
A: 

GRE is a popular standardised test for getting admission in MS program in the world. However, there are many universities in the USA that offer admission to MS courses without GRE scores. There is fixed minimum or maximum GRE score for admission. However, even if your GRE score is below the average for a particular program, you may still be considered for admission if you have strong qualifications in other areas. It is adviseble to check university website for the exact information.

Score Predictor

Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!

Share 12th Board, Percentage, english score
Get estimated scores or IELTS, TOEFL & PTE


GRE Logo

GRE Cutoff for the Top Universities in the World

In this section, we are going to be providing GRE cut-off scores for top universities in the world. Given below is a range of GRE cut-off scores for top universities. Candidates looking to take admission to the universities mentioned below can use the GRE cut off scores as a benchmark. For more information on modest GRE scores, candidates are advised to visit the official website to learn about score requirements. 

GRE Exam Eligibility Universities

GRE Eligible Verbal Scores

GRE Eligible Quantitative Scores

GRE Eligible Writing Scores

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

158

159

5.3

Stanford University

159

158

4.8

University of California, Berkeley

153 – 156

167

4.5

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

155

167

5.0

University of Virginia

163

166

4.5

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

160

167

5.0

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

158

160

4.5

Georgia Institute of Technology

158

167

4.3

University of California – San Diego

162

160

5.5

University of Illinois – Urbana/Champaign

155

165

4.0

University of Wisconsin – Madison

163

163

4.5

University of Washington

156

167

4.0

Pennsylvania State University

150

165

3.0

University of Florida (UFL)

154

165

3.0

The University of Texas, Austin

155

165

4.0

Ohio State University

156

165

4.0

California Institute of Technology

160

157

5.0

Duke University

160

160

4.5

The University of Chicago

158

167

4.0

Northwestern University

160

160

5.0

Washington University in St. Louis

161

160

5.0

Johns Hopkins University

163

164

4.8

Rice University

160

167

5.0

Emory University

153

163

4.0-6.0

University of Notre Dame

165

165

5.3

Vanderbilt University

157

166

4.8

College of William and Mary

158

160

4.5

Johns Hopkins University

159 162

4.2

Related Reads:

Average GRE Score for Universities 2025

As informed, the average GRE score is highly dependent on your university/programme admission guidelines. However, to give candidates an understanding of what their average GRE score might look like candidates can take a look at the table below

GRE Section

Average GRE Score

GRE Verbal Reasoning Section

149.97

GRE Quantitative Reasoning Section

152.57

GRE Analytical Writing Section

3.48

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What GRE score is required for Harvard?
A: 

Harvard University does not have a fixed minimum GRE score requirement for every course it offers. However, some of its popular programs, such as STEM programs like Engineering and Computer Science, have set minimum required scores in the Graduate Record Examination.

Q:   Which country other than USA accepts GRE score?
A: 

Beyond USA, GRE scores are widely accepted for graduate programs in over 90 countries. Top study destinations like Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Singapore, France, and the Netherlands. Many universities in these countries ask for the GRE scores at the time of Master's, PhD, and MBA admissions. Always check specific university requirements.

Q:   What is a good GRE score to get into a MS Computer Engineering program in a top 20 US university?
A: 

To get into MS in Computer Engineering program offered by any top 20 US university, students should have at least in the range of 320-340. score in Gradute Record Examination. However, this is just a general guideline. Getting a high score in GRE does not gurantee you for getting admission in your desired course/university. Specific requirements can vary depending on the university and the program.

Q:   What is the GRE cutoff for US universities?
A: 

There is not a fixed cut for Graduate Record Examination to study abroad. Some top universities release course-wise GRE cut-offs for admission. Other than this, not every university in the USA or the world announces a minimum required score for the GRE exam.

Q:   How can I get into a top graduate school with a low GRE score?
A: 

Getting into a top graduate school with a low GRE score is challenging but not impossible. The admissions committee of foreign universities considers multiple factors when making admission decisions. While a GRE score is an important factor, it is not the only criterion. Here are some ways to strengthen your application even with a low GRE score:

  • Highlight a Strong Academic Record
  • Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
  • Gain Relevant Work or Research Experience








GRE Logo

What is a Good GRE Score?

A good GRE score is heavily dependent on your preferred university/college. Candidates are required to find out what the GRE cut-off is for the particular course at the university. This information would be easily available on the university department website. Once you have the number, candidates should note that they have to aim higher to make their application stand out and for scores to speak for themselves. This is a good way to understand what a good GRE score is all about. 

Candidates can also use the table below for reference purposes only. Do note that the score range provided below is not necessarily true to any particular college, but to give a general sense of idea to a GRE test taker of what a good GRE score could be like.

Related Reads:

GRE Accepting Universities in the USA GRE Accepting Universities in Canada
Top GRE Accepting Universities in Germany GRE Accepting Universities in the UK

Best GRE Score Range 2025

These GRE scores will put you in the top 10% of all GRE test-takers

GRE Verbal Section: 163 - 170

GRE Quantitative Section: 165 - 170

GRE Analytical Writing: 5.0 – 6.0

Competitive GRE Score Range 2025

These GRE scores will put you in a highly competitive place in admissions (top 25% of all GRE test takers)

GRE Verbal Section: 158 - 162

GRE Quantitative Section: 159 - 164

GRE Analytical Writing: 4.5

Good GRE Score Range 2025

These GRE scores put you ahead of the pack (50%+), but won’t be as advantageous when applying to highly competitive programmes

GRE Verbal Section: 152 - 158

GRE Quantitative Section: 153  -158

GRE Analytical Writing: 4.0

Related Reads:

Candidates can check out GRE Cut Off scores for universities by Country. Candidates should note that the GRE scores could vary depending on the course preferences. Hence, the scores mentioned here should be used for reference purposes only. Candidates are advised to visit the official website or get in touch with our Study Abroad Counsellors. 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   How to get a good GRE exam score?
A: 

To achieve a high score in the Graduate Record Examination or GRE, you need to follow these preparation tips:

  1. Create a study plan and define your target score for your dream university.
  2. Use authentic and high-quality prep materials. (Explore flashcards, prep books, and online resources)
  3. Do a SWOT analysis and focus on your weaknesses first.
  4. Do some writing practice and focus on clarity & logical flow.
  5. Build a strong vocabulary.
Q:   What is a good GRE score to get into a MS Computer Engineering program in a top 20 US university?
A: 

To get into MS in Computer Engineering program offered by any top 20 US university, students should have at least in the range of 320-340. score in Gradute Record Examination. However, this is just a general guideline. Getting a high score in GRE does not gurantee you for getting admission in your desired course/university. Specific requirements can vary depending on the university and the program.

Q:   What is the GRE exam passing score?
A: 

GRE does not announce cut off score or passing marks. Universities across the world release minimum GRE score required for admission in their programs. Getting a high score increase the chances of getting admission in your required score. You can the university wise GRE passing score on the official website of university. 

Q:   I scored 303 marks in GRE. Can I get admission in Georgia Tech University, Atlanta?
A: 

The score is good enough to apply for admission in the Georgia Tech University. However, GRE score is no longer required to get admission here but important to be submitted. Keep in mind the minimum GRE score is 155 in Quantitative section only and no minimum score band for other sections.

Q:   Is 320 a good GRE score for Germany?
A: 

A GRE score of 320 is considered very good for universities in Germany. Most top German universities typically require a GRE score of 315+ for competitive programs. A score of 320 would put you in a strong position for admission and potentially for scholarship opportunities.

Download this guide to read it offline

Tell Us About Yourself
When do you plan to start?
Have you given any study abroad exam?







Resources for you
Understand the process step by step by referring to these guides curated just for you
qna

Comments

(506)

R

Rutul Kumar

a year ago

Hi I am unable to book my GRE Physics Test in Ahmedabad, even though test centre are initially showing, but at the time of registration it is showing this error since last two months "No test centers found based on your search criteria. Change search criteria or enter a specific city location and tr

...Read more

Reply to Rutul Kumar

A

Abhay kumar

a year ago

go for GRE at home, only Arizona state university doesn't accept GRE at home except them every college in USA accept GRE at home

R

Rutul Kumar

a year ago

When should I apply for GRE Physics April Session in Ahmedabad, India?

Reply to Rutul Kumar

H

Hari

a year ago

How is physically handicapped dear and dumb?

Reply to Hari

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Hari. Kindly elaborate on your query for me to be able to assist you better.

R

Reshmi Kadamati

2 years ago

hi i am architectural student so i need to join cullen university of space architecture college , i.e, university of houston , USA .

Reply to Reshmi Kadamati

R

Rahul Singha

2 years ago

Hello Reshmi. If you are looking for assistance with university admissions, do reach out to our team of Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply You can know all about the University of Houston, here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/usa/universities/university-of-hous

...Read more

A

Akshat Mishra

2 years ago

Hey Studyabroad.shiksha! The dates given for 2023 for gre 2023 are in Jan,Feb,Mar,Apr,May,June. What if I wish to appear in Sep-Oct? Will this be possible? Does ETS reveal new dates as the months pass by?

Reply to Akshat Mishra

R

Rahul Singha

2 years ago

Hello Akshat. Yes, GRE dates for September to December have been updated on our GRE exam dates page: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/exams/gre/important-dates Please feel free to go ahead with your GRE slot booking.