The GRE psychology subject test evaluates the knowledge and skills of test takers in undergraduate-level psychology, as well as their ability to apply this knowledge in real-world situations. This test is intended for those who want to pursue a master’s or PhD in psychology, especially in the USA colleges and universities.
This blog has covered the comprehensive details of the GRE psychology subject test including pattern, syllabus, format, question types, and more.
Table of Contents
What is the GRE Psychology Subject Test?
- The GRE psychology subject test is a type of GRE test that measures the achievements in the field of psychology.
- This test is taken by those who previously had undergraduate majors in psychology or relevant fields of study.
- The GRE psychology subject test scores are used for admissions and scholarships.
- It is a computer-based test that is organised 3 times a year.
- Test takers can attempt this test both at the test centre and at home.
Overview of the GRE Psychology Subject Test
Below, we have tabulated the general overview of the GRE psychology subject test.
| Duration | 2 Hours |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Psychology |
| Number of Sections | 1 |
| Number of Questions | 144 MCQs |
| Mode of Delivery | Computer-based |
| Skills Tested | Critical thinking Problem-solving Ability to apply psychological principles to real-life scenarios |
| Score Range | 200-990 (overall) |
| Fees | INR 14,500/- per application |
Breakdown of GRE Psychology Subject Test
- The GRE subject test for psychology consists of approximately 144 five options multiple questions.
- The questions are based on several psychological experiments and graphs, which are generally found in courses offered at the undergraduate level.
- A question may require test-takers
- Recall factual information
- Analyse relationships
- Applying principles
- Drawing conclusions from data
- Evaluate a research design
- Key topics include biological, cognitive, social, developmental, clinical, measurement/methodological, etc.
| Number of Questions | Topics |
|---|---|
| 30 | Biological |
| 29 | Cognitive |
| 19 | Social |
| 18 | Developmental |
| 23 | Clinical |
| 25 | Measurement/Methodology/Other |
GRE Psychology Syllabus
- The GRE psychology syllabus consists of 6 parameters on which the test taker’s core knowledge in psychology subject is evaluated.
- They are cognitive psychology, biological psychology, clinical psychology, measurement/methodological psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
- Cognitive Psychology
- Learning
- Classical Conditioning
- Instrumental Psychology
- Theories, Applications, and Issues
- Observational Learning
- Biological Psychology
- Sensation and Perception
- Attention
- Perceptual Organisation
- Vision
- Audition
- Gustation
- Vestibular and Kinesthetic Senses
- Clinical Psychology
- Personality
- Behaviour
- Clinical and Abnormal
- Stress, Conflict, and Coping
- Diagnostic Systems
- Assessment
- Neurophysiological Factors
- Measurement/Methodological Psychology
- Measurement and Methodology
- Psychometrics, Test Construction, Reliability
- Ethics and Legal Issues
- Scientific Method and the Evaluation of Evidence
- Analysis and Interpretation of Findings
- Research Designs
- Social Psychology
- Social Perception
- Attitudes and Behaviour
- Social Comparison
- Cultural and Gender Influences
- Evolutionary Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Nature-Nurture
- Physical and Motor
- Perception and Cognition
- Language
- Socialisation, Family, and Culture
- Learning, Intelligence
- Social, Personality
Types of GRE Psychology Questions
- The GRE psychology subject test consists of multiple-choice questions
- Each question contains 5 choices out of which only one answer is correct
- Some of these questions are grouped into sets and are based on diagrams, experimental data, graphs, etc.
How to Answer GRE Psychology Questions?
- Read the directions and instructions carefully.
- Read each question carefully and relate the context with the options provided
- Use strategies like elimination and strategic guessing
- Do not waste time pondering individual questions if they seem difficult.
- Since there is no negative marking, answer each question
How to Prepare for the GRE Psychology Subject Test?
- Go through the pattern, format, and syllabus of the GRE psychology subject test carefully.
- Review and revise all the resources relevant to psychology subjects from your previous undergraduate study.
- Download the official prep materials of the GRE psychology subject from the website of ETS and begin practising.
Key Takeaways from Smart Academy
The GRE psychology subject test evaluates knowledge across key domains such as biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, along with clinical and measurement-related concepts. The test includes approximately 144 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 120 minutes, requiring efficient time management.
It emphasises an understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and applied concepts. Familiarity with key terms, major studies, and influential psychologists is essential for success. Regular practice with sample questions and mock tests can improve recall, critical thinking, and accuracy.
FAQs
What topics are covered in the GRE psychology subject test?
The key topics in the GRE psychology subject test include cognitive psychology, social psychology, biological psychology, clinical psychology, and developmental psychology.
What is the time duration of the GRE psychology subject test?
The time duration of the GRE psychology subject test is 2 hours or 120 minutes.
When GRE subject tests are conducted in India?
In India, the GRE subject tests are usually conducted 3 times a year. In 2025, the test slots are available between April 21st and May 4th.
How many questions are asked in the GRE psychology subject test?
The GRE psychology subject test consists of 144 multiple-choice questions, which are required to be answered in 120 minutes.
Which GRE subject test should I take to get admission into master’s/PhD in psychology at universities abroad?
To get admission into a master’s in psychology or relevant programs, you can choose to attempt the GRE psychology subject test. Alternatively, you can take the GRE general test.
