Is it really worth it to take a review class? Or, can I just buy a book at Barnes & Noble and study on my own? I am applying for grad. school for master's in nursing. Any advice on the GRE?? The classes look expensive!
2006-08-11 15:01:08 · 9 answers · asked by Becca 5 in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
I am not currently in school, I have been working in my field for 9 years. What kind of math is on the test? I did take Calculus in college, but I don't remember much of it. Simple algebra I use pretty much every day, though.
2006-08-11 16:56:16 · update #1
I applied to grad school on a whim, so I had to take the GRE without any prep time in order to make the application deadlines. I did well enough. I can tell you this, if you are good at math you should do just fine. That's the only part you can really prep for. Over half of the words on the verbal section are words you likely have never even seen or heard in your entire life. Don't bother studying for that. As for the essay portion, everyone gets something different, but if you have written some Junior/Senior level research papers you'll be okay.
The bottom line is this: the GRE is worthless, and is only a small part of your overall application. Just get at least a 1000 (v + q) and a 4/6 on the writing and you'll be golden. Don't waste any money on classes. The test itself is expensive enough!
The math section (much like the verbal) adapts to your first 4-5 responses. You're initially given a moderately difficult question. If you answer correctly, the next one is harder, and vice versa. After a few questions, the computer zeroes in on your aptitude. If you get a 2+2 type of question, you probably aren't doing so hot. From what I could tell, the majority of the math section covers college algebra, geometry, trig, and calculus 1 (up to integrals). Nothing as advanced as differential equations or anything. There are also some statistics questions involving standard deviations, means, and distributions. Hope this helps!
2006-08-11 15:26:51 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am about to take it in September. Everyone that I talked to said skip the classes. They are a waste of money. Instead, buy one of the GRE prep books for like $25, or borrow it from the library. For the last month or so, I have been casually browsing the book. They have a practice test in it and give you access to an online prep thing. It asks you some questions and then determines a plan of action depending on you strengths and weaknesses. Plus they have a couple of extra practice tests. I have found this to be pretty helpful. Also, search for GRE vocab lists. It will only help to keep going over vocab.
Wish me luck, and good luck to you as well!
2006-08-11 15:34:41 · answer #2 · answered by smm_8514 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd say that if you're currently in school and have a pretty good GPA, the books and practice tests will probably be enough prep for you. I'd only do the courses if you struggle with standardized tests or you're looking to have your GRE scores compensate for a low GPA.
Remember, this is not like the SAT. Graduate programs aren't all that interested in whether you're a well rounded student, so they are going to give much more weight to one score than the other. I did my MA in History and my profs used to joke around with each other about how low their math scores were. Some got single digit scores and went to very competitve schools. So, while you shouldn't ignore prepping for the verbal section, I would spend more time with the math if you're applying for nursing.
2006-08-11 16:44:36 · answer #3 · answered by pag2809 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I was getting my Masters I had to take the GRE. I bought the book and studied and practiced for 2 months. I did very well. It was like the SAT but at a post college level. No classes necessary.
2006-08-11 18:31:30 · answer #4 · answered by Wishin' I was 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I took the GRE. I just got a KAPLAN book to study from. It was great! Plus once you register for the GRE, they'll send you a free CD-ROM with practice questions and practice tests. I don't think a class is necessary at all, as long as you have the self-discipline to study on your own.
Also, you can get GRE books from the library for free! No need to buy one.
Good luck! :)
2006-08-11 15:07:40 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I did not study at all just took it... but I did have a 3.87 grade point in Chemical Engineering...
I did well enough to be accepted to university I wanted with a full GRA + stipend...
maybe go to library and look at the GRE study books there and see what you think... lots of the same stuff from SAT's actually... vocab etc...
2006-08-11 15:07:25 · answer #6 · answered by Charity 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I just used the book from Barnes & Noble.
2006-08-11 15:08:04 · answer #7 · answered by Dr. D 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i havent gotten to that point yet. im still finishing up my bachelors
but think of it this way. when you were in college, did you do better on exams studying on your own or in a group setting?
if you decided to do it on your own... make sure you make plenty of time to study. you dont want to cram right before the exam
classes may be expensive... but it also may be worth it. "you gotta spend some to get some"
2006-08-11 15:08:43 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I just took it. It never occurred to me to study for it. Either you know your stuff or you don't.
2006-08-11 15:10:05 · answer #9 · answered by gtoacp 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋