Everything About the GRE Subject Test: Subjects Offered, Format, Fees and More
You're getting ready for grad school. You’ve heard of the GRE, but wait, there’s more than one? Suddenly, you’re bombarded with terms like GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test, and now you’re wondering: Which one do I need?
If that sounds familiar, you're in the right place. Choosing the right test and knowing how to prepare is critical for making your application stand out. This guide is for students, recent graduates, or professionals aiming to apply to graduate or specialised programmes that require or recommend a GRE Subject Test. Whether you're self-prepping or working with study abroad consultants, this blog will help you make informed decisions, from test selection to preparation strategies.
TL;DR – What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- Key differences between the GRE General and Subject Tests
- Who should take the Subject Test and in which fields
- Registration, prep strategies, and success tips
- How to decide which test fits your study abroad goals
What Is the GRE Subject Test?
The GRE Subject Test is a specialised exam designed to assess your in-depth knowledge in a specific academic field. Unlike the GRE General Test, which evaluates broad skills like reasoning and writing, the Subject Test focuses on content mastery in disciplines such as Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. It’s ideal for applicants targeting research-intensive or highly competitive graduate programmes that value subject-specific expertise.
Difference Between the GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test
Here’s the key distinction:
- The GRE General Test measures general academic readiness, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
- The GRE Subject Test evaluates your command of a particular subject, making it a powerful tool to demonstrate academic depth.
If your undergraduate transcript doesn’t fully reflect your strengths, or you’re switching fields, the Subject Test can help bridge that gap and reinforce your application.
Who Administers the GRE Subject Test?
Both the General and Subject Tests are administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), a globally recognised organisation responsible for developing and delivering standardised assessments for graduate admissions.
The GRE Subject Test is your opportunity to highlight your subject-matter mastery and stand out in a competitive pool of applicants.
Available GRE Exam Subjects: What You Can Take Today
If you're considering the GRE Subject Test, it's important to know which subjects are currently offered and why the GRE subjects list has narrowed in recent years.
Current GRE Subjects
As of now, ETS offers three GRE Subject Tests:
- GRE Psychology: Ideal for applicants to graduate programmes in clinical, cognitive, developmental, or social psychology.
- GRE Mathematics: Designed for students applying to math-intensive programmes, including pure and applied mathematics.
- GRE Physics: Tailored for those pursuing graduate studies in theoretical or experimental physics.
These tests are computer-delivered and available on select dates throughout the year, typically in September, October, and April.
Discontinued GRE Exam Subjects
In recent years, ETS has discontinued several GRE subjects, including:
- GRE Biology
- Chemistry Subject GRE
- English Literature GRE
These changes reflect shifting trends in graduate admissions, where many programmes now rely more heavily on undergraduate transcripts, research experience, and the GRE General Test rather than subject-specific exams.
Why Only Three Remain
The remaining tests, Psychology, Mathematics, and Physics, continue to be relevant because:
- They serve fields where standardised subject knowledge is still highly valued.
- Many competitive or research-driven programmes in these areas use Subject Test scores to assess academic depth.
- These disciplines often require a strong theoretical foundation, which the Subject Test helps validate.
Pro Tip: Always check with ETS or consult your study abroad consultant to confirm current test availability and whether your target programmes still recommend or require the GRE Subject Test.
Optional vs. Required: What’s the Difference?
- Required: You must submit a Subject Test score to be considered for admission.
- Optional/Recommended: You’re not obligated to take it, but submitting a strong score can enhance your profile, especially if:
- Your GPA is average or inconsistent
- You’re switching academic fields
- You lack relevant coursework on your transcript
In optional cases, think of the Subject Test as a way to stand out in a competitive pool. Our expert consultants offer valuable admission guidance to increase your chances of application success.
GRE Subject Test Format and Structure: What to Expect
If you're planning to take a GRE Subject Test, understanding the format is key to building an effective prep strategy. The exam format varies by discipline, but each test is designed to assess your mastery of core concepts in a specific field.
Curious to compare the format and structure for general and subject tests? Check out our detailed guide on the GRE format to understand the differences and decide which test best suits your academic goals.
Duration and Number of Questions
Each GRE Subject Test lasts approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, though the exact number of questions varies by subject:
- GRE Mathematics: ~66 multiple-choice questions
- GRE Physics: ~100 multiple-choice questions
- GRE Psychology: ~205 multiple-choice questions
There are no separate sections, you will complete all questions in one continuous session.
Question Types
All GRE Subject Tests use multiple-choice questions, with each question offering five answer choices. The questions are designed to test:
- Conceptual understanding
- Problem-solving ability
- Application of theories and principles
You won’t find essay writing or data interpretation here, these tests are all about subject-specific knowledge.
Scoring System
Scores for GRE Subject Tests range from 200 to 990, with increments of 10 points. Each subject has its own scoring curve, and ETS also provides percentile rankings to help you understand how your score compares to other test-takers. GRE Subject Test scores are valid for five years, giving you flexibility in your application timeline.
Want a deeper dive into how GRE scores are calculated and what they mean? Check out our complete guide to the GRE scoring system for detailed insights and tips.
Computer vs. Paper-Based Delivery
GRE Subject Tests are now computer-delivered, replacing the older paper-based format. This shift offers several benefits:
- Faster score reporting
- More flexible scheduling
- Streamlined test experience
Tests are offered on select dates throughout the year, typically in September, October, and April, and you’ll need to register via your ETS account.
How to Prepare for the GRE Subject Test
To prepare effectively for the GRE Subject Test, start early, use official ETS resources, choose subject-specific prep materials, and practice strategically, while avoiding common pitfalls like cramming or skipping mock exams. Here's how to set yourself up for success:
Study Timeline Recommendations
Start your prep at least 8–10 weeks before your test date. This gives you enough time to:
- Review foundational concepts
- Practice with timed questions
- Identify and improve weak areas
Official Resources from ETS
ETS offers free practice books for each Subject Test, which include:
- GRE subject test sample papers
- Test format overview
- Answer explanations
You can download these directly from the ETS GRE Subject Test prep page. This is your most reliable starting point.
Recommended Prep Materials by Subject
Depending on your discipline, here are some tried-and-true resources:
-
GRE Psychology Study Guide:
- Kaplan GRE Psychology
- Barron’s GRE Psychology Subject Test Prep Book
- APA textbooks for core theories and research methods
-
GRE Mathematics:
- Princeton Review GRE Math Subject Test
- Schaum’s Outlines for Algebra, Calculus, and Linear Algebra
- Practice GRE math questions from university courses
-
Physics GRE Practice:
- Conquering the Physics GRE
- Halliday & Resnick for fundamentals
- MIT OpenCourseWare for advanced topics
Practice Test Strategies
- Take at least two full-length mock tests under timed conditions
- Review your mistakes thoroughly, don’t just note the correct answer
- Simulate test-day conditions to build stamina and reduce anxiety
- Track your progress weekly to adjust your study plan as needed
GRE Registration, Dates & Costs
You can register for the GRE Subject Test through your ETS account. Just pick your subject, test date, and location. Tests are offered three times a year, so plan ahead!
The fee varies by region, and fee waivers are available for eligible students. You can also choose where to send your scores during or after registration.
Need help with the step-by-step process? Check out our GRE registration guide for everything you need to know.
Your GRE Subject Test Journey Begins Here
The GRE Subject Test can be a powerful tool to showcase your academic strengths, especially if you're applying to competitive or research-focused graduate programmes. Whatever subject you’re appearing for, understanding the test’s structure, knowing how to prepare, and being strategic about when to take it can make a real difference in your application.
The key is to start early, use reliable resources, and stay consistent with your prep. And remember, even if the test isn’t required, it can still be a smart way to stand out, particularly if you're switching fields or want to reinforce your academic profile.
If you're feeling unsure about where to begin or how to align your GRE strategy with your study abroad goals, you're not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Uscholars is here to help. As a trusted study abroad consultancy, we offer personalised guidance to help you navigate everything from test prep to university applications.
Ready to take the next step? Connect with Uscholars, and let’s make your study abroad journey a success.
