A 90% GRE score means you’ve scored in the 90th percentile, placing you above 90% of test-takers worldwide. This is not the same as getting 90% of questions correct—it reflects your performance relative to others. A 90% score indicates strong academic readiness and makes you a competitive applicant for most graduate programs.
What Scores Correspond to a 90% GRE Score?
According to ETS data, a 90% score typically requires:
- Verbal Reasoning: 162 or higher
- Quantitative Reasoning: 165 or higher
- Analytical Writing: 5.0 or higher
For example:
- A 163 Verbal score ranks at the 90th percentile.
- A 166 Quantitative score is also around the 90th percentile.
- A 5.0 on the essay section places you in the 93rd percentile.
These scores are considered excellent and are often seen in applicants to selective master’s and PhD programs.
Why a 90% GRE Score Matters
Graduate admissions committees use percentiles—not raw scores—to compare applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. A 90% score signals that you are among the top tier of test-takers globally. It strengthens your application, especially when applying to competitive programs in fields like:
- Engineering
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Public Policy
However, even with a 90% score, schools evaluate your full profile—GPA, letters, research experience, and personal statement. The GRE is just one component.
Is a 90% GRE Score Required?
No,but it helps. Many reputable programs accept students with lower percentiles, especially if other qualifications are strong. Conversely, some elite programs may expect scores in the 95th percentile or higher (e.g., Harvard, Stanford).
A 90% GRE score is a powerful achievement that reflects exceptional performance. It demonstrates mastery of verbal and quantitative reasoning skills essential for graduate-level success. While not mandatory, reaching this benchmark significantly enhances your competitiveness and shows admissions committees that you are academically prepared to excel.