The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a key requirement for admission to many graduate programs worldwide, including the U.S., Canada, and Europe. For Bangladeshi students aiming for scholarships, top universities, or competitive programs, a high GRE score can make a significant difference.
This guide covers everything you need to prepare effectively: exam format, study strategies, materials, online resources, coaching options in Bangladesh, and expert tips for success.
π Understanding the GRE Exam
The GRE General Test has three main sections:
Verbal Reasoning (2 sections, 20 questions each, 30 minutes per section)
Focuses on reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, and text completion.
Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections, 20 questions each, 35 minutes per section)
Tests basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
Analytical Writing (2 tasks, 30 minutes each)
One Issue Essay and one Argument Essay.
Total GRE score ranges from 260 to 340 (Verbal + Quantitative)
Analytical Writing scored separately from 0β6
π Official GRE info: ETS GRE Website
π Step-by-Step GRE Preparation Plan
Step 1: Know the Test Format & Requirements
Understand question types in Verbal, Quant, and Writing.
Review time limits and scoring patterns.
Practice with official ETS GRE sample questions.
Step 2: Build Core Skills
Verbal Reasoning
Expand your vocabulary (learn at least 15β20 words daily).
Practice reading comprehension with academic texts, newspapers (The Guardian, The Economist).
Use GRE apps like Magoosh GRE Vocabulary.
Quantitative Reasoning
Revise fundamental mathematics: algebra, geometry, statistics.
Practice problem-solving strategies for faster calculations.
Solve GRE quantitative problem sets from Manhattan Prep or Kaplan.
Analytical Writing
Learn essay structures for both Issue and Argument tasks.
Practice writing essays under 30-minute time constraints.
Use sample prompts from ETS GRE Analytical Writing
Step 3: Gather the Right Study Materials
Official Resources:
ETS Official GRE Book
GRE PowerPrep Software
Recommended Books & PDFs:
Manhattan Prep GRE Strategy Guides
Kaplan GRE Prep Plus
Barronβs GRE 21st Edition
Magoosh GRE Online Resources: Free GRE Practice
Apps & Online Tools:
Magoosh GRE Vocabulary
Ready4GRE App
Quizlet (for word lists)
Step 4: Create a Study Timeline
3β4 Month Plan (Suggested for Bangladeshi Students):
Month 1: Vocabulary building, review math basics, learn essay structures.
Month 2: Intensive Verbal & Quant practice, timed practice sets.
Month 3: Full-length mock tests, Analytical Writing practice, review weak areas.
Last 2 Weeks: Focus on simulated tests, refine strategies, and reduce mistakes.
π Coaching Centers in Bangladesh
Professional coaching can help students improve faster, especially in analytical strategies, time management, and section-wise techniques. Some options:
Executives Care, Chittagong β Offers structured GRE prep with mock tests and practice strategies. Known for technical guidance in Verbal, Quant, and Essay writing.
Mentors Education (Dhaka & Chittagong) β Focuses on section-specific strategies and full-length practice exams.
British Council Bangladesh β Strong for English proficiency and essay writing, helping students strengthen verbal and writing skills.
S@ifurβs Coaching β Affordable, with emphasis on practice-driven learning, useful for quantitative and verbal review.
π Each institute has its technical strengths: some emphasize exam strategies, others focus on language skills or problem-solving techniques.
π Practical GRE Tips for Bangladeshi Students
Daily Vocabulary Practice β 15β20 words per day using flashcards or apps.
Timed Problem Solving β Quantitative section requires speed and accuracy.
Practice Mock Tests β At least 5β7 full-length exams before the actual test.
Analytical Writing Templates β Learn essay structures for efficiency.
Review Mistakes β Understand why answers are wrong, not just memorize solutions.
Balanced Study Approach β Focus on weak sections but maintain strengths.
π Free Online Resources for GRE Preparation
ETS GRE Sample Questions
Magoosh GRE Free Resources
Manhattan Prep GRE Practice Questions
GRE Prep Club β Community discussion & practice problems
π Final Thoughts
The GRE is more than just a test of knowledgeβit evaluates your reasoning, analytical thinking, and academic writing skills. Bangladeshi students can succeed with a combination of self-study, mock exams, and expert guidance.
Institutions like Executives Care in Chittagong, Mentors Education, British Council, and S@ifurβs each provide technical strengths in different areas. Choosing the right coaching depends on whether you need section-wise strategies, exam simulations, or language improvement.
With a structured plan, consistent practice, and smart use of resources, achieving a competitive GRE score (320+) is realistic and entirely achievable.