A 99% GRE score means you’ve scored in the 99th percentile, placing you among the top 1% of test-takers worldwide. This is not a perfect score, but it reflects exceptional performance on the GRE General Test and makes you a highly competitive applicant for even the most selective graduate programs.
What Scores Are Needed for a 99% GRE Score?
According to ETS data, a 99% score typically requires:
- Verbal Reasoning: 170 (perfect score)
- Quantitative Reasoning: 169–170
- Analytical Writing: 5.5 or 6.0
For example:
- A 170 Verbal score places you at the 99th percentile.
- A 170 Quantitative score is also at the 99th percentile.
- A 6.0 in Analytical Writing ranks at the 99th percentile.
These scores demonstrate mastery of verbal reasoning, advanced quantitative problem-solving, and strong written communication—skills highly valued in PhD, engineering, economics, and top-tier master’s programs.
Why a 99% GRE Score Matters
While no program guarantees admission based on GRE alone, a 99% score signals elite academic ability. It can:
- Strengthen your application at Ivy League or similarly selective schools
- Improve scholarship and fellowship eligibility
- Compensate for a slightly lower GPA
- Demonstrate readiness for rigorous research or technical work
However, admissions committees still evaluate your full profile—GPA, letters, research experience, personal statement, and fit with the program. The GRE is just one component.
Is a 99% GRE Score Required?
No. Most applicants gain admission without reaching this level. A 90th–95th percentile score is often sufficient. But if you’re applying to top PhD programs in physics, mathematics, or computer science, a 99% score may be common among admitted students.
A 99% GRE score is an outstanding achievement that reflects near-perfect performance on a challenging standardized test. It shows you are in the top tier of global applicants. While not required for most programs, it can open doors and enhance your credibility as a candidate. Aim high—but remember: excellence in all parts of your application matters more than any single score.