Curious about "what level of math is on the GRE?" The Quantitative Reasoning section tests high-school level math—nothing beyond pre-calculus, making it accessible yet tricky under time pressure. In 2025, the shorter GRE (1 hour 58 minutes total) includes two 21-question Quant sections scored 130–170, with an average of 153.4 globally. ETS emphasizes arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation—no trigonometry, calculus, or proofs. Questions blend straightforward calculations with clever word problems, testing speed and logic over advanced theory. Indian engineers often score 165+ easily, while humanities majors need 2–3 months to reach 155+. This guide breaks down exact topics, difficulty tiers, and proven strategies to conquer GRE math in 2025.
Core Math Topics on the GRE: High-School Level Breakdown
GRE Quant covers four pillars: Arithmetic: Fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, sequences, and number properties (primes, evens/odds). Example: If x x x is 20% of y y y, and y y y is 50% of z z z, what’s x:z x:z x:z? Algebra: Linear/quadratic equations, inequalities, functions, exponents, and simultaneous equations. Example: Solve 2x+3=7(x−1) 2x + 3 = 7(x - 1) 2x+3=7(x−1). Geometry: Triangles, circles, coordinate geometry, lines, and 3D shapes—focus on properties, not proofs. Example: Find the area of a triangle with vertices at (0,0), (3,4), (6,0). Data Analysis: Statistics (mean/median/mode, standard deviation), probability, combinatorics, and interpreting charts/graphs. Example: From a box plot, identify Q1 and outliers. No calculus, logarithms beyond basics, or matrices. All formulas provided on-screen if needed.
Difficulty Levels of GRE Math: From Basic to Advanced
Questions scale in three tiers:
- Easy (130–145): Plug-and-chug arithmetic, basic algebra (e.g., solve x+5=12 x + 5 = 12 x+5=12).
- Medium (145–155): Multi-step word problems, geometry with variables (e.g., similar triangles).
- Hard (155–170): Data interpretation with combined rates, probability with restrictions, or coordinate geometry tricks. Adaptive format means correct answers unlock harder ones—miss early, and you cap at ~150. Top 10% (165+) master time (1.5 min/problem) and avoid traps like assuming units.
How GRE Math Compares to High-School Standards (SAT/ACT)
GRE Quant aligns with SAT Math (average 508) but demands faster, deeper application. SAT allows calculators throughout; GRE bans them in one section, forcing mental math. A 700 SAT Math (~85th percentile) typically converts to 158–162 GRE Quant. No trig like ACT, but more statistics than both.
Common Challenges in GRE Math for International Students
Non-STEM majors struggle with speed—40 questions in 35 minutes. Word problems trip non-native speakers (e.g., "rate" vs. "ratio"). Indian test-takers dominate (168+ common) due to JEE prep, but others need 100+ practice problems weekly.
Proven Prep Strategies to Master GRE Math Level in 2–3 Months
- Diagnose: Take ETS PowerPrep—score <150? Start with Khan Academy high-school modules.
- Drill Topics: Use Manhattan Prep 5-lb Book or Magoosh (1,000+ questions). Focus weak areas—e.g., geometry = draw diagrams.
- Time Yourself: Finish 20 questions in 30 minutes daily.
- Learn Shortcuts: Memorize squares to 15, fraction-decimal conversions, Pythagorean triples.
- Mock Weekly: Aim 5–10 point gains per test. Free ETS mocks + GregMat ($5/month) suffice. With 10–15 hours/week, average students hit 160+—enough for Purdue, UIUC, or NYU MS programs.
In summary, GRE math stays at high-school level—algebra, geometry, and data—but rewards strategy over genius. Start with basics, scale to traps, and watch your Quant soar past 165 in 2025.