Graduate Program GRE Score Benchmarks by Discipline
GRE score requirements vary significantly by discipline, program tier, and the specific section most weighted by each field. Engineering PhD programs (top-10 schools): Quantitative score expectations of 165–170 are standard; Verbal scores are less critical but scores below 155 may raise concerns. The median admitted Quant score at MIT, Stanford, and Caltech engineering programs consistently falls at 167–170. Computer Science PhD programs: similar to engineering, Quant 165–170 is competitive; many top programs report 25th–75th percentile ranges with Quant medians at 168–170. Economics PhD programs (research-focused): Quant 165–170 is effectively required for top-20 programs; many programs explicitly state minimum Quant thresholds of 165. Verbal expectations are secondary but the AWA score (analytical writing) is valued. Humanities PhD programs (English, History, Philosophy): Verbal score is primary, with competitive candidates at top programs typically scoring 163–167+. Quant is less relevant but extreme Quant scores below 148 occasionally draw attention. Psychology PhD programs: composite score matters; competitive candidates typically show 158–165 Verbal and 155–162 Quant, with APA-accredited clinical programs also weighting GPA and research experience heavily. Note: many top programs stopped requiring GRE scores in 2020–2022 during COVID and have not reinstated requirements. Always verify current requirements directly with each program's admissions office before test registration.