The GRE Exam (Graduate Record Examination) is a critical step for students aiming to enroll in graduate programs to study abroad. Preparing for the GRE at home offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor your study schedule while saving money on coaching classes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to prepare for GRE at home, including study strategies, free resources, and tips to keep your focus intact.
Why prepare for the GRE at home?
Preparing for the GRE at home has become a popular option, especially in the wake of the pandemic, where taking tests remotely is now the norm. Whether you’re just starting or aiming to improve your score, how to start GRE preparation at home largely depends on how effectively you structure your study plan and make use of available resources.
Key steps to prepare for GRE at home
Here’s how to get started with GRE preparation at home:
- Understand the test format
- The GRE consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Familiarize yourself with the question types and the time allotted for each section.
- Set a baseline
- Before diving into preparation, take a full-length diagnostic test to assess your current performance. This will give you a clear idea of your strengths and areas that need improvement.
- Create a study plan
- How to prepare for GRE exam at home efficiently involves creating a well-organized schedule. Aim to cover each section while giving extra attention to areas where you’re weak. Make sure to set realistic goals and stick to them.
- Use online resources
- Several websites offer free GRE prep materials, including full-length practice tests, study guides, and question banks. Some popular platforms include:
- ETS: Official GRE practice materials, including full-length tests.
- Khan Academy: Provides free instructional videos and practice problems.
- PrepScholar: Offers personalized study plans and detailed strategies.
- Several websites offer free GRE prep materials, including full-length practice tests, study guides, and question banks. Some popular platforms include:
- Practice time management
- Time management is crucial when you prepare for GRE at home. Take timed practice tests regularly to improve your speed and accuracy under test conditions.
How to Pass the GRE on the First Attempt
Free GRE preparation at home
Preparing for the GRE at home doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on study materials. Here’s how you can do your GRE prep at home for free:
| Resource | Description | Cost |
| ETS PowerPrep Practice Tests | Full-length tests that simulate the real GRE experience. | Free |
| Khan Academy | Offers video tutorials, especially helpful for Quantitative Reasoning. | Free |
| Magoosh GRE Blog | Free study schedules, strategy guides, and practice questions. | Free |
| Manhattan Prep GRE | Provides free GRE practice problems and strategy sessions. | Free |
| Quizlet | Use Quizlet to make your own flashcards for vocabulary preparation. | Free |
These resources can help you prepare for GRE at home without breaking the bank, ensuring you have access to high-quality materials at no cost.
How to Improve Your Profile If You Have a Low GRE Score
How to make flashcards at home for GRE
Flashcards are a great way to improve your vocabulary, which is crucial for the Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE. Here’s how to make effective flashcards at home:
- Use physical cards or apps: You can either create physical flashcards or use apps like Anki and Quizlet. Both methods have their pros and cons, so choose what works best for you.
- Write concise definitions: On one side of the card, write the GRE word, and on the other, write a brief, concise definition along with an example sentence.
- Group words by difficulty: To make learning efficient, group difficult words separately so that you can review them more frequently.
- Use spaced repetition: When using digital flashcards, use spaced repetition to ensure you review words at optimal intervals, increasing retention over time.
Understanding how to make flashcards at home for GRE can improve your vocabulary retention and boost your Verbal Reasoning score.
Addressing GRE at home cheating concerns
Since the introduction of GRE at home, there have been concerns about GRE at home cheating. However, strict proctoring measures are in place to prevent any malpractice. ProctorU, the proctoring service for the GRE at home, uses:
- Live human proctors: The test is monitored in real-time through video and screen sharing to ensure no unauthorized activities.
- AI-powered detection: Software tracks eye movements, head turns, and other suspicious behaviors.
While can we prepare for GRE at home is a question often asked, test takers should remember that cheating during the exam is strictly prohibited and may result in score cancellation and a ban from future tests
GRE study plan for home preparation
Creating a solid study plan is crucial when thinking about how to start GRE preparation at home. Here’s a 12-week sample study plan:
| Week | Task |
| 1-2 | Take a diagnostic test, review test structure, and focus on weaknesses (especially in Quant/Verbal). |
| 3-4 | Start practicing with Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning practice questions. |
| 5-6 | Focus on Analytical Writing—practice writing essays under time constraints. |
| 7-8 | Take full-length practice tests. Focus on improving time management. |
| 9-10 | Focus on challenging concepts and continue building your vocabulary using flashcards. |
| 11-12 | Take final practice tests, review mistakes, and focus on last-minute improvements. |
With this approach, you can successfully manage your GRE preparation at home and ensure steady progress.
Conclusion
Preparing for the GRE at home is a viable option that offers flexibility and cost savings. By following a structured study plan, using free online resources, and practicing regularly, you can boost your chances of success on the GRE. Whether you’re making your own flashcards or utilizing ETS’s official resources, the key is consistency and effective time management. With these strategies, you can confidently answer the question of how to prepare for GRE at home.
Ready to start your GRE prep journey? Make use of the vast free resources available at MSM Unify overseas education consultant and create a personalized study plan to ace your exam from the comfort of your home.
FAQs
1. Can we prepare for GRE at home?
Yes, you can effectively prepare for the GRE at home using online resources, practice tests, and a solid study plan.
2. What is the best way to start GRE preparation at home?
Begin with a diagnostic test to understand your baseline, then create a study schedule focused on your weak areas.
3. How to prepare for GRE exam at home without a tutor?
Use free online resources like Khan Academy, ETS practice tests, and Magoosh blogs for self-study.
4. Are there free resources to prepare for GRE at home?
Yes, ETS, Khan Academy, and Quizlet provide free GRE prep materials including practice tests, tutorials, and flashcards.
5. How can I make flashcards at home for GRE?
Use index cards or digital tools like Quizlet or Anki to create flashcards for vocabulary and concepts.
6. Can I cheat on the GRE at home?
No, cheating on the GRE at home is strictly monitored by human proctors and AI software, and can result in severe penalties.
7. How to manage time during GRE prep at home?
Use timed practice tests regularly to improve your speed and accuracy in each section.
8. How long should I prepare for the GRE at home?
Most students prepare for 12 weeks, though this can vary based on your existing knowledge and time commitment.
9. How to use online resources for GRE prep at home?
Explore free resources like ETS PowerPrep, Magoosh, and Khan Academy for tutorials, practice tests, and concept explanations.
10. Is it effective to prepare for GRE at home without coaching?
Yes, with discipline and the right resources, preparing for the GRE at home without coaching can be very effective.
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