ETS has a new scoring format

This post is part of the Sunday Series for Compelling GRE Workshops.


ETS is changing its scoring methods from a range of 200-800 to a range of 130-170, which more closely resembles the scoring other Graduate Program tests such as the LSAT (120-180).  The GMAT is on a 200-800 range, and the MCAT is totally different.  So this explains to some degree why they made the change in scoring.  


Here is what the ETS says about the new GRE format:

What Is Changing About Scoring

A New Score Scale that Makes It Easier for Schools to Compare Your Scores with the Scores of Other Candidates

If you've seen an official score report for the current test, or have friends who have taken the current test, then you know that the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections have a score scale of 200 – 800, reported in 10-point increments.

However, scores will look much different on the new score scale for the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections of the GRE® revised General Test. The Analytical Writing section score scale will remain the same.

What you need to know about the new score scale

• Verbal Reasoning scores will be reported on a new 130 – 170 score scale, in 1-point increments (versus 200 – 800 in 10-point increments).
• Quantitative Reasoning scores will be reported on a new 130 – 170 score scale, in 1-point increments (versus 200 – 800 in 10-point increments).
• Analytical Writing scores will continue to be reported on the same 0 – 6 score level, in half-point increments.

What does the new score scale mean to you? It means that institutions will find it easier to compare your scores with the scores of other candidates. Here's why:

• If you and another candidate have GRE revised General Test scores that differ by one or two score points, for example, then you and the other candidate performed similarly on the revised test.
• With the current test's broader score scale, that same difference looks like a 10- or 20-point difference in score — which could look like a big difference.

Now small differences in scoring will look like small differences, while bigger differences will continue to stand out. That's good news for you, and for the schools considering you.

Important Information If You Need Your Scores Before November

Considering whether or not to take the current test or the GRE revised General Test? Before you decide, first select which schools you're most interested in attending, then find out when they need your scores for admissions.

• If you take the GRE revised General Test during our special discount period of August – September 2011, your scores will be sent by mid-November.
• If you take the test in October – November, check the detailed score reporting schedule to know what day your scores will be sent.
• Score reporting returns to the regular reporting period of 10 – 15 days after test date, starting in December.
• This means if a school needs your scores before November, you must take the current test before August to make sure you have your scores in time.

Keep in mind that scores will continue to be valid for five years. If you need your scores by November, early planning will be important.