How To Prepare for the GRE for PT School Applications

Are you planning to enter the world of physical therapy and make a difference in people’s lives? There’s a hurdle you need to jump before you get there: the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), a critical part of the admissions process for most physical therapy programs. 

This article is your trusted guide to effectively prepare for the GRE and boost your path toward earning your physical therapy degree. Begin preparing for physical therapy school today.

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Understanding the GRE 

GRE stands for Graduate Record Examinations, a standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It doesn’t test you on a specific subject relating to your intended field of study.

Rather, the GRE examines your aptitude for problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge application, skills integral to a multitude of graduate programs.  For those looking to pursue a physical therapy degree, the GRE is particularly important. 

It’s a common requirement in the application process, and also provides an objective measure for comparing applicants, given the differing standards and grading scales among institutions. A strong GRE score can set you apart from other applicants, bolster your application, and increase your chances of securing a seat in the physical therapy program of your dreams.

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A Timeline for GRE Preparation

Now that you understand the place of the GRE in your journey to a physical therapy degree, it’s important to prepare for it. First things first: start early. A typical recommendation is to give yourself three to six months of preparation time, depending on your current familiarity with the tested subjects.

A well-structured study schedule is key. Without one, it’s easy to lose track of time and focus. Break down your GRE preparation into manageable, specific tasks, fitting them in during pockets of free time throughout your day. Be sure to balance learning new content, practicing problems, and reviewing difficult material.

Understanding the Structure of the GRE

To effectively prepare for the GRE, you must understand its structure. The GRE is composed of three primary sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Verbal Reasoning tests your grasp of English vocabulary, reading comprehension, and ability to evaluate written material. 

Quantitative Reasoning assesses basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis abilities. Analytical Writing evaluates your critical thinking skills and ability to articulate complex ideas effectively and clearly. Each section requires a different approach to preparation. 

For example, increasing your vocabulary range might aid you in the Verbal Section, while practicing solving problems under timed conditions can boost your Quantitative Reasoning performance. Tailoring your study plan to the test’s structure can help maximize your preparation efficiency and ultimately contribute to a desirable GRE score.

Study Material and Resources

Preparing for the GRE demands a wide variety of materials. Here’s how to navigate the sea of resources:

Books

GRE preparation books like The Official Guide to the GRE General Test by ETS, the test’s creators, offer comprehensive overviews, practice questions, and answer explanations. Others, like the Manhattan Prep’s 5 lb Book of GRE Practice Problems, provide a large volume of practice questions across all test areas.

Online Courses

A boon of digital learning, online courses provide flexible, interactive preparation. Platforms like Magoosh, Kaplan, and Princeton Review offer robust curricula, practice tests, and video lessons.

Practice Tests

Simulating the test environment can be immensely beneficial. ETS offers two free, full-length computer practice tests that mimic the actual exam interface. Don’t limit yourself to just one; taking multiple practice tests can help strengthen stamina and timing.

Best Practices for GRE Test Day

Embarking on the day of your GRE examination comes with its own set of pressures and anxieties. However, with the right approach, you can turn this tension-filled day into a seamless experience that leaves you feeling confident and calm. Here are the best practices to keep in mind for GRE test day to ensure you’re at your peak performance.

Pack your ID, registration confirmation, water, and snacks the night before. Plan to reach the test center early to avoid unnecessary stress. Prioritize sleep over last-minute cramming. A well-rested brain performs better than a tired one armed with a few extra facts.

A nourishing breakfast can also fuel your brain for the endurance test ahead. Trust in your preparation and enter the test center with a calm and optimistic attitude, because a confident mindset can significantly impact test performance.

Conquering the GRE for Your PT School Application

Securing a robust GRE score opens pathways to your dream physical therapy degree program. Although the journey might seem daunting, armed with a clear understanding of the test, a structured preparation plan, appropriate resources, and productive test-day strategies, the feat becomes totally achievable. 

Remember, the GRE is an opportunity to develop skills that will make you a stronger student, professional, and overall thinker. So make your study plan today, and you’ll be one step closer to a fulfilling career in physical therapy. Good luck!