Preparing for the GRE can feel like a daunting task, especially when balancing the demands of applying to PA school. Many PA programs in the U.S. require the GRE to assess your readiness for graduate-level coursework, and performing well on the exam can significantly strengthen your application. A well-structured GRE study plan is key to ensuring you maximize your potential. In this guide, we’ll outline a three-month GRE study plan designed specifically for PA school applicants.
Why the GRE is Important for PA School
Over half of PA programs require the GRE as part of the admissions process. The exam tests critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and verbal skills, all of which are essential for success in a rigorous PA curriculum. Scoring well on the GRE can boost your application, demonstrating to admissions committees that you are well-prepared for the academic challenges of PA school.
Additionally, a strong GRE score may open the door to more programs, as many PA schools around the country use the GRE as a screening tool. The better you perform, the broader your opportunities will be when applying.
Overview of the 3-Month GRE Study Plan
This three-month GRE study plan is designed to help you build your skills systematically, with each month focusing on different aspects of the exam. Whether you’re just starting or refining your skills, this plan will guide you toward success.
Month 1: Building Your Foundation
The first month of your GRE study plan is all about diagnosing your strengths and weaknesses and laying a strong foundation. Here’s what you should focus on:
Week 1: Take a Diagnostic Test
Start your preparation by taking a full-length GRE practice test. This is crucial because it helps you identify your baseline score and highlights areas that need improvement. Knowing your weak spots allows you to create a personalized study plan tailored to your needs.
Many test prep resources, including the Magoosh platform, offer free practice exams that come with a detailed breakdown of your performance in each section—quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing. A diagnostic test will give you a clear picture of where you stand and what you need to focus on during the next three months.
Weeks 2-4: Focus on Weak Areas
After completing the diagnostic test, spend the rest of the month focusing on your weakest areas.
- Verbal Reasoning: If verbal reasoning is a challenge, expand your vocabulary using flashcards and work on reading comprehension exercises. Sentence equivalence and text completion questions are frequent trouble spots, so practice these types of questions daily.
- Quantitative Reasoning: For those struggling with math, review foundational concepts such as algebra, geometry, and data interpretation. Use resources like Magoosh’s question bank, which contains over 1,600 practice questions, to build your problem-solving skills.
- Analytical Writing: Start working on your essay-writing skills by focusing on the structure and clarity of your responses. Use resources like ETS’s ScoreItNow to get feedback on your essays, which can be invaluable in refining your approach.
Month 2: Practice, Practice, Practice
Month two is all about deepening your understanding and getting comfortable with GRE question types. Practice should be your top priority during this stage.
Weeks 1-2: Verbal and Quantitative Focus
- Verbal Reasoning: Continue practicing sentence equivalence and reading comprehension daily. Set aside time each day to review challenging words, phrases, and sentence structures that are common on the GRE.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Dedicate these two weeks to solving various types of math problems. Focus on improving your speed and accuracy in answering questions involving algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Review your mistakes and spend time understanding the reasoning behind correct answers.
Weeks 3-4: Analytical Writing
For the final weeks of month two, shift your focus to the analytical writing section. The GRE requires you to write two essays: an “Analyze an Issue” task and an “Analyze an Argument” task. Here’s how to prepare:
- Practice Essays: Write several essays under timed conditions to mimic the actual test. Practice organizing your thoughts quickly and effectively, focusing on building clear and logical arguments.
- Get Feedback: Use online resources like ScoreItNow or ask peers to review your essays. Constructive feedback will help you identify areas that need improvement.
Month 3: Final Preparation
The third and final month is where everything comes together. Your focus should be on full-length practice exams, targeted reviews, and perfecting your test-taking strategies.
Weeks 1-2: Full-Length Practice Exams
In the first two weeks of month three, take at least two full-length GRE practice tests under timed conditions. This will simulate the actual test environment and help you build endurance for the 3-hour, 45-minute exam.
- Review Your Results: After completing each practice test, thoroughly review your results. Identify patterns in your mistakes and prioritize reviewing topics where you lost points.
- Adjust Study Plan: Based on the results of your practice exams, adjust your study plan to focus on weaker areas. For example, if you continue to struggle with specific types of math questions, spend additional time reviewing those concepts.
Week 3: Targeted Review
This week, shift to a more targeted review of your weakest areas.
- Verbal Reasoning: Continue working on vocabulary and practice more reading comprehension questions. Focus on eliminating common traps in sentence equivalence and text completion questions.
- Quantitative Reasoning: If you’re struggling with specific math concepts, review those areas thoroughly. Try additional practice problems and focus on improving your accuracy.
- Analytical Writing: Continue writing essays and seek feedback from peers or online resources. Ensure that your essays are clear, concise, and well-structured.
Week 4: Test Week
Congratulations! You’ve completed three months of GRE preparation. The final week is all about preparing for test day.
- Take Time to Relax: In the days leading up to the exam, take time to relax and clear your mind. Avoid cramming or taking practice tests right before the exam—your brain needs time to recharge.
- Prepare for Test Day: Make sure you have everything you need for the test, including your ID, test confirmation, and any other necessary materials. Plan your route to the testing center and ensure you know the logistics of the day.
- Test Day Tips: On test day, get a good night’s sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, and stay calm. Stick to your usual routine—don’t try anything new, like a different breakfast or an unusual activity, as this could disrupt your focus.
Integrating the GRE into Your PA School Timeline
When preparing for PA school, timing is everything. If you plan to apply in the 2025 cycle, consider taking the GRE in the winter of 2024 or early 2025. This will give you plenty of time to prepare and ensure that your scores are submitted with your application.
Research the specific requirements of the PA programs you’re interested in. Some programs do not require the GRE, while others place heavy emphasis on it. Knowing this in advance will help you better plan your application strategy.
Conclusion
Preparing for the GRE doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you approach it with a solid plan. By dedicating three months to focused, strategic study, you can build the skills you need to succeed on the exam. With the right preparation, practice, and timing, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goal of attending PA school. Remember, the GRE is just one component of your PA school application, but doing well on it can help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool.
Also read: First Hybrid PA Program Closing
About me:
I’m Michele Neskey, aka The Posh PA. Welcome to my YouTube channel! My mission is to provide personalized guidance, education, and motivation to build confidence and promote wellness for aspiring physician assistants and beyond.
Having been a PA for 17+ years and helped hundreds of students gain acceptance into PA school, I understand the admissions process. I know what they are looking for, and I can help you tailor every component to make you shine, giving you the BEST chance of getting accepted to a program. But it doesn’t end there. I create personalized plans for PA students and practicing PAs including test-taking strategy for the PANCE, contract negotiations, and tools to overcome and prevent provider burnout.
My goal is to get you into a physician assistant (PA) school & survive the rigorous program, help you prevent burnout as a practicing PA, and help you take care of yourself so you can be the best version of YOU for your patients, family, and most importantly YOU!