Yes, a GRE score of 276 is generally considered a very low score and would likely be a significant disadvantage in graduate school applications.
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) General Test is scored on a scale ranging from 260 to 340 for the combined Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections (130-170 for each section), with an Analytical Writing score ranging from 0 to 6. A score of 276 places an applicant at the extreme lower end of this scoring scale.
Understanding GRE Score Ranges
To understand why a 276 is considered low, it's helpful to know what constitutes a competitive or "good" GRE score for graduate school admissions. While specific requirements vary widely among programs and universities, a strong overall GRE score is generally considered to be 318 or higher, which typically places an applicant into the 75th percentile or above. This usually involves individual section scores of at least 158 for Verbal Reasoning and 159 for Quantitative Reasoning, coupled with an Analytical Writing score of 4.5 or higher.
A score of 276 falls substantially below these commonly accepted benchmarks for a strong performance on the GRE, suggesting that the applicant's measured verbal and quantitative skills may not meet the expectations for the rigors of most graduate-level academic programs.
GRE Performance Levels
| Score Range | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 260 - 280 | Very Low: Significantly below average; likely a major admissions hurdle. |
| 281 - 300 | Low: Below average; may be a concern for many programs. |
| 301 - 317 | Average: Potentially competitive for some less selective programs. |
| 318 - 325 | Good: Competitive for many graduate programs, often above the 75th percentile. |
| 326 - 340 | Excellent: Highly competitive; typically places you in the top percentiles. |
Implications and Next Steps
A low GRE score like 276 can significantly impact your chances of admission to most graduate programs, particularly those that are highly competitive or place substantial weight on standardized test scores. While some programs adopt a holistic review process, considering all aspects of an application (e.g., GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, work experience), a very low GRE score can still be a challenging obstacle.
If you have received a score of 276 and are looking to pursue graduate studies, consider the following actions:
- Retake the GRE: The most effective step is often to dedicate time to focused study and retake the exam. Significant score improvements are achievable with targeted preparation. Utilize official study materials, practice tests, and consider reputable test preparation courses.
- Research Program Requirements Thoroughly: Investigate the average GRE scores of admitted students for your specific target programs. Some programs might be test-optional, or place less emphasis on GRE scores, while others may have specific minimum score requirements.
- Strengthen Other Application Components: Ensure that other parts of your application, such as your academic transcript (GPA), letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose, are exceptionally strong. Highlight relevant research experience, professional achievements, and any unique skills that demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level work.
- Explore Alternative Programs: If retaking the exam isn't feasible or doesn't yield the desired improvement, consider exploring graduate programs that do not require the GRE or have more flexible admission criteria.
For comprehensive information about the GRE and its scoring, you can refer to the official ETS website, which administers the exam.
