A score of 330 or higher places a test taker in the 98th percentile on the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). This elite score signifies exceptional performance, indicating that a test taker has scored better than 98% of all other individuals who took the exam.
Understanding GRE Percentiles
The GRE General Test assesses a candidate's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills. Percentiles are a way to understand how a test taker's score compares to the scores of others. Specifically, the 98th percentile means that your combined score (Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning) is at or above the score achieved by 98% of test takers.
Achieving a 330+ score is a rare feat, accomplished by only a small fraction of test takers—approximately 2%. This level of performance demonstrates a very strong grasp of the concepts tested in both the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections of the GRE.
The Significance of a 330+ Score
A GRE score of 330 or higher is highly competitive and often exceeds the average score requirements for even the most selective graduate programs worldwide. This level of achievement can significantly bolster a graduate school application, signaling to admissions committees strong academic potential and readiness for rigorous graduate-level coursework.
Such a high score can also open doors to:
- Top-tier graduate programs: Many elite universities and specialized programs look for applicants with exceptional GRE scores.
- Scholarship opportunities: High GRE scores can sometimes make applicants more competitive for merit-based scholarships and fellowships.
- Increased competitiveness: In highly competitive fields, a stellar GRE score can differentiate an applicant from a pool of otherwise qualified candidates.
The GRE's Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are each scored on a scale of 130–170, in one-point increments. Therefore, a combined score of 330 or more indicates near-perfect or perfect scores on these sections.
To summarize the 98th percentile:
| Percentile | Score Range (Approx.) | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| 98th | 330+ | Outperformed 98% of test takers; top 2% of scores. |
For more general information about the GRE General Test, you can visit the official ETS GRE website.
