You should take the GRE general or subject based on your target graduate program’s requirements—not personal preference. Most programs require the GRE general, but only a small number of specialized fields require or recommend the GRE subject.
When to Take the GRE General
Take the GRE general if you’re applying to:
- Master’s or PhD programs in business, education, social sciences, public policy, humanities, or most STEM fields
- Programs that require a standardized measure of verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills
The GRE general is required by the vast majority of U.S. graduate programs. It assesses foundational academic skills critical for success in graduate coursework, regardless of your field.
When to Take the GRE Subject
Take the GRE subject only if your program explicitly requires or recommends it. These are typically research-intensive PhD programs in specific disciplines, such as:
- Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics (for PhDs in STEM)
- Literature in English (for PhDs in English or comparative literature)
- Psychology (for clinical or experimental research programs)
The GRE subject tests advanced undergraduate knowledge in one subject area and is not required by most programs—even in STEM. Many top schools have dropped the subject test requirement in recent years.
How to Decide: GRE General or Subject?
- Check your program’s admissions website — Look for “requirements” or “recommended tests.”
- If it says “GRE required” — You need the GRE general.
- If it says “GRE Subject Test recommended” — Only then consider taking the GRE subject.
- If it says “test optional” or “no GRE required” — You may not need either.
Bottom Line
For 95% of applicants, the answer is: take the GRE general.
Only take the GRE subject if your specific program demands it.
Taking the GRE general or subject unnecessarily wastes time, money, and energy. Focus your preparation on the test your program actually requires. When in doubt, contact the admissions office directly. Your goal is to meet their expectations—not to over-prepare for a test they don’t ask for.