Biology Test
Overview
- Simply put, GRE Subject Tests are special written exams that aim at understanding the knowledge and skill of the candidate in a particular subject. For instance, a GRE Mathematics test would test the level of knowledge of the student in the said subject.
- Unlike the GRE General Tests, GRE Subject Tests are specific and limited to one subject. These often have drawn out syllabus that tests the students on various aspects of the subject. Again, citing the same example, a GRE Mathematics Test has sections for calculus, algebra and other topics like set theory, etc. Similarly, GRE Chemistry test would have sections of organic, inorganic chemistry, etc.
- Designed to test the skill level in a particular subject area or field, these tests are an excellent way to showcase your understanding of a specific subject, as suited to the career of your choice.
How, When and Where are the Exams Conducted?
The GRE Subject Tests are paper based tests and conducted only thrice every year across designated test centres. They are conducted in
- September
- October, &
- April
Kinds of Subject Tests
In total, 7 GRE Subject Tests are available. These are:
- Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Literature in English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
Why to write GRE Subject Tests
- Now that we understand what these subject tests are, we move to the more important question - Why to write them. While these tests are an excellent means to portray your skill level in a particular subject, they are often not “required” or “mandatory” at even the top tier universities. They might, at most recommend a GRE Subject Test but would not insist on it. Hence, while GRE General might be a requirement, GRE Subject Tests are optional. So should a student write them?
- The answer is, it would depend on what you want to showcase. A good GRE Subject Test score is the easiest way to prove your understanding of the subject. This in turn significantly improves your academic credibility and might add on to the application on a whole. This is more the case if you believe that your academic background requires a bit of boost or not.
- While many people suggest that giving a GRE Subject Test improves your chances of selection, we recommend otherwise. If you believe that your application, on its own, has enough merit, you need not look for reinforcements. But, at the same time, if you are looking for applying for a rather intensive program which recommends (even though not require) a GRE subject test, it would certainly add to your chances of getting a seat in that program.
- So sit back, take an honest look at your candidature, your background and also at the University profile and decide whether or not to write it. Remember that you have a choice of not sharing the Subject Test score, so no harm in having back up. Also, most of the Ph.D courses require a GRE Subject Test.
Which GRE Subject Tests to write?
Important to note: