GRE Score Chart

Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning are each reported from 130 to 170 in one-point increments. Adding those two scores produces the familiar 260–340 total. Analytical Writing is separate on a 0–6 scale in half-point increments.

The chart shows that equal scaled scores do not create equal ranks. For example, 165 is 95th percentile in Verbal and 67th in Quant in the cited ETS reference group. Always label both the measure and the date when quoting a percentile.

There is no single permanent table translating a certain number correct into a scaled score. Quant and Verbal are section-level adaptive, and ETS uses equating to account for differences among test forms. A calculator based on practice data can estimate a range, not promise an official result.

Compare each section with program expectations and decide which gap is both important and trainable. A one-point change near the top can move a percentile visibly, but the admissions value of that change still depends on the program and the rest of the application.

A 160V/160Q profile totals 320, but the official section ranks are 84th Verbal and 50th Quant. A 155V/165Q profile also totals 320, with ranks of 65th and 67th. A 165V/155Q profile reverses the academic signal, ranking 95th in Verbal and 37th in Quant.

These examples explain why sorting applicants only by the 260–340 total loses information. The total is convenient shorthand; the section scores and intended program provide the interpretation.

Analytical Writing remains separate from the combined total. Its 0–6 result should be read with the current ETS percentile table and the writing expectations of the program. It cannot be added to Quant and Verbal to create a larger total.

When using a score chart in an article or application discussion, label the writing scale separately and date the percentile source. Avoid old charts that include outdated testing populations without disclosure.

A score report therefore has three distinct measures, not one grand score. For goal setting, write targets in a form such as 160V, 165Q, and 4.0 AW. This keeps study decisions tied to the section that needs improvement and prevents a combined total from masking an important imbalance.

Use charts as a snapshot, then confirm any high-stakes interpretation against the linked ETS source. Percentile tables are periodically revised, whereas the familiar score scales may remain unchanged, making an undated copied chart look current when its ranking data are not.