Old GRE vs. New Shorter GRE 2025: Key Differences & Which Test Suits You

If you've been researching the GRE recently, you've probably noticed something surprising: the test you take today isn't the same marathon it was just two years ago. In September 2023, ETS cut the GRE from nearly four hours to just under two—a change that has significant implications for how you prepare and perform.

But here's what most test prep sites won't tell you: this isn't just about convenience. Cognitive science research suggests the shorter format may actually help you score higher. Let's break down exactly what changed and, more importantly, why it matters for your graduate school application.

What Changed: The Numbers at a Glance

The transformation is dramatic. The old GRE clocked in at 3 hours and 45 minutes with approximately 100 questions across six sections, plus an experimental section that didn't count toward your score. The new shorter GRE takes just 1 hour and 58 minutes with 54 scored questions across five sections.

Here's how the sections compare:

Analytical Writing:

The old format required two essays—"Analyze an Issue" and "Analyze an Argument"—in 60 minutes total. Now, you write only one "Analyze an Issue" essay in 30 minutes. That "Argument" task that caused so many test-takers anxiety? Gone.

Verbal Reasoning:

Previously, you faced 40 questions across two 30-minute sections. Today, you answer 27 questions in two sections totaling 41 minutes. The question types remain identical: Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence, and Reading Comprehension.

Quantitative Reasoning:

The old test had 40 questions in two 35-minute sections. The new format presents 27 questions in two sections totaling 47 minutes. You'll still encounter Quantitative Comparison, Multiple Choice, and Numeric Entry questions covering algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis.

The Experimental Section:

This unscored section where ETS tested new questions? Completely eliminated. Every question you answer now counts toward your final score.

The Science Behind Why Shorter Matters

Most GRE prep resources frame the shorter test as simply "more convenient." That undersells what's actually happening.

Research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences examined how cognitive fatigue affects standardized test performance. The findings were striking: for every additional hour of testing, student performance decreased by 0.9% of a standard deviation. More importantly, a 20-30 minute break improved scores by 1.7% of a standard deviation.

What does this mean for GRE test-takers? The old four-hour format pushed your cognitive resources to their limits. By the time you reached the final sections, your brain was operating at diminished capacity—not because you didn't know the material, but because sustained mental effort depletes the cognitive reserves you need for complex reasoning.

The new format essentially removes this handicap. With testing time cut in half and no mandatory break to interrupt your flow, you're more likely to maintain consistent performance from start to finish.

Key Structural Differences That Affect Strategy

Fewer Questions, Same Standards:

The reduced question count doesn't mean the test is easier. Each question carries more weight in your final score. On the old GRE, you had more opportunities to recover from mistakes. Now, precision matters more than ever.

No Experimental Section Guessing:

Previously, test-takers couldn't know which section was unscored, leading many to treat every section as critical—a mentally exhausting approach. With that uncertainty eliminated, you can fully commit to every question knowing it counts.

Time Per Question Remains Consistent:

Despite fewer questions, ETS maintained roughly the same time allocation per question. You still have approximately 1.5 minutes per Verbal question and 1.75 minutes per Quantitative question. The difference is you won't be doing this mental math while fighting fatigue in hour three.

Section-Level Adaptation Continues:

The GRE remains section-adaptive. Your performance on the first Verbal or Quant section determines the difficulty of your second section in that area. Strong performance on Section 1 unlocks harder questions in Section 2—which is actually good news, since harder second sections correlate with higher scoring potential.

Faster Score Delivery

The old GRE delivered official scores in 10-15 calendar days. The new format sends your scores to institutions within 8-10 days. For students working against application deadlines, those extra days can be the difference between making a submission deadline and scrambling for extensions.

You'll still see unofficial Verbal and Quantitative scores immediately after completing the test, giving you instant feedback on whether you've hit your target or should consider retaking.

Who Benefits Most from the Shorter Format?

Test-takers with attention or stamina concerns:

If maintaining focus for extended periods has been a challenge in the past, the compressed format works in your favor.

Working professionals:

With less time away from responsibilities and faster score turnaround, fitting GRE preparation and testing into a busy schedule becomes more manageable.

Students applying to multiple program types:

GRE scores remain valid for five years and are accepted by graduate, business, and law schools worldwide. The shorter test makes it easier to complete this admissions requirement without derailing your other preparations.

Those who struggled with the Argument essay:

If constructing a critique of logical reasoning wasn't your strength, you've just been handed a gift. Focus your analytical writing practice entirely on the Issue essay format.

The Strategic Reality: There's No Choice to Make

Here's what needs to be stated clearly: you cannot take the old four-hour GRE anymore. As of September 22, 2023, ETS discontinued the longer format entirely. The "shorter GRE" is simply the GRE now.

This means your preparation strategy should align with the current format. Don't use outdated practice materials that include the Argument essay. Don't plan for a scheduled break that no longer exists. And don't assume you need four hours of stamina when two hours is all you'll face.

How to Prepare for Today's GRE

Focus your practice on the specific question counts you'll encounter: 12 questions in your first Verbal section, 15 in your second; 12 questions in your first Quantitative section, 15 in your second; and one 30-minute Issue essay.

Since each question carries more weight, prioritize accuracy over speed in your preparation. Build familiarity with the section-adaptive structure by practicing under conditions that simulate the real test.

And leverage what cognitive science tells us: approach test day rested and focused. The shorter format reduces fatigue-related performance decline, but only if you arrive with your mental resources fully charged.

FAQ: Old GRE vs. New Shorter GRE

Is the new shorter GRE easier than the old format?

The content difficulty remains the same—the same question types, topics, and scoring scales apply. However, reduced cognitive fatigue may help you perform closer to your actual ability level.

Can I still take the old 4-hour GRE?

No. ETS discontinued the longer format in September 2023. All current test-takers take the 1 hour 58 minute version.

Does the shorter GRE affect my score validity?

Not at all. Scores from the shorter GRE are evaluated identically by admissions committees, and they remain valid for five years.

How should I adjust my study plan for the new format?

Skip practice materials covering the "Analyze an Argument" essay. Focus on accuracy given the higher weight of each question, and practice without a mid-test break since none is scheduled.

Preparing for the GRE? PrepAiro combines adaptive practice with cognitive science-backed study schedules—helping you prepare smarter, not just longer. Start your free diagnostic today.