Most non-engineering undergraduate students feel the GRE is not for them and the test is more beneficial to an engineering or tech student applying to an MSc programme. However, that is not the case, in this article, we’ll tell you all about taking the GRE after BCom studies. Before we begin, let us understand the GRE structure.

What is the GRE?

Conducted by ETS, GRE is a standardized test taken by students all over the world to apply to masters and MBA programmes at top universities and business schools. The GRE exam full form is — Graduate Record Exam. This exam is timed at 3 hours and 47 minutes. Scored on a scale of 260-340, the GRE has three sections — analytical writing, quantitative and verbal reasoning. While the analytical writing section gauges your ability to evaluate arguments and write analytically, the quant and verbal sections test your mathematical and English language skills, respectively. 

Now that you know a little about what the GRE is, let us understand whether taking the GRE after BCom is feasible or not.

Taking the GRE After BCom

Since the GRE is mostly taken by students applying to the MSc programme abroad, it is largely believed that the test is only beneficial for engineering undergrad students. However, that is not the case, you can take the GRE no matter which stream —arts, commerce or science — you are from. If you’re considering taking the GRE after BCom, then it is a great step towards your higher education goals. You can take the GRE by registering for the test and booking an appointment on the official website. The appointment is confirmed once you make a payment of $213, which is the standard fee for test-takers taking the test in India. However, the GRE fee in India amounts to INR. 15,800 which is subject to foreign exchange rates.

Although there are no professional or academic eligibility criteria set by ETS to take the GRE, it is highly recommended that you take the GRE while in your final year so you can dedicate a few years to acquiring work experience. Moreover, since admission to master’s programmes in the field of management is not just based on GRE scores, you should also focus on gaining experience that will strengthen your application. Furthermore, your GRE scores are valid for a period of five years, so preparing and taking the GRE after BCom will prove to be helpful because you then have ample time to focus on other aspects of admissions such as work experience, community service, letters of recommendations and drafting essays. 

Moreover, since a BCom is a three-year undergrad course, you may want to consider studying a 1-year certification or a diploma to attain 4 years of education. Having a total of 16 years of education gives you an upper hand when applying to some of the business schools or universities in Canada and the US.   

Now that you know what the GRE is and whether you can take the GRE after BCom or not, you’re better positioned to plan your higher education and register for the GRE.