The GRE test structure remains the same for computer based and paper based GRE tests. The only disadvantage of a computer based test is that you cannot leave difficult questions for later and also cannot change your answers once you have attempted them. The tests take around 4 hours in total with each section allocated with a particular duration. The GRE test refers to the General Test.

The GRE Test structure will thus throw light on the structure of the General GRE Test. This test consists of 3 sections. The Verbal Reasoning session consists of multiple choice questions on Sentence Equivalence and Text completion and the last part is answering a comprehension. This section has around 20 questions covering all sections and has to be solved in half an hour. Speed is definitely a criterion while solving all sections.

The next section of Quantitative reasoning allows you 35 minutes to complete a set of 20 questions which cover the 3 sections. The sections of problem solving and quantitative comparisons each have 10 multiple choice questions. Mostly 4-5 options are given per answer. The numeric entry section requires 3 to 4 steps to solve the problems and the answer has to be entered in the blank box. This part contains 10 questions and contributes to 10% of the total marks in the GRE Test structure.

The last section evaluates your ability to analyze a critical situation and answer to the point by giving general and personal opinions. This section is of 1 hour and involves essay writing. The first part requires you to analyze and solve an issue by giving general perception and then taking a stand for your opinion. The second part involves analyzing and solving an argument by giving your opinion and stressing on it while following the instructions given in the test.