A 5-week class typically meets 1-2 times per week with structured lessons covering different GRE topics each session. Outside of class time, you'll be expected to complete practice problems and full-length practice tests—usually 5-10 hours per week depending on your baseline skills. Varsity Tutors connects you with instructors who can work around your schedule, whether you're balancing work, graduate school applications, or other commitments in Memphis.

Students often struggle most with the Quantitative Reasoning section, especially if their math background is rusty, and with Verbal Reasoning, which requires both vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension skills under time pressure. A strong 5-week prep class dedicates focused time to each section's unique challenges—teaching you how to approach data interpretation problems, master algebra and geometry concepts, and develop efficient reading strategies. Your instructor will identify which sections need the most attention for your specific goals.

Most GRE prep programs recommend taking 4-6 full-length practice tests throughout your 5-week course—typically one at the beginning to establish a baseline, a few during the middle weeks to track progress, and one or two near the end to simulate test day conditions. Practice tests are essential for understanding the pacing demands of the real exam and identifying which question types slow you down. Your instructor will help you review practice test results to focus your remaining study time on areas that need improvement.

Score improvement varies based on your starting point and how much you practice outside of class. Students who begin with a baseline score around 145-150 per section and commit to consistent practice often see improvements of 10-30 points, while those starting lower may see larger gains. The GRE is scored from 130-170 on each section, and reaching a competitive score for top programs typically requires a combined score of 310-330+. Your instructor can help set realistic expectations based on your target program's typical admitted scores.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format and time pressure—a 5-week class directly addresses both by teaching you strategic approaches to each question type and building confidence through repeated practice. You'll learn time-management techniques specific to each section, understand which questions to tackle first, and practice under timed conditions. Familiarity with the test format and having a solid strategy significantly reduces anxiety on test day.

Look for instructors who have strong GRE scores themselves (typically 160+ on each section), experience teaching test prep, and familiarity with the current GRE format and question types. Ideally, your instructor should be able to explain the reasoning behind correct answers, not just provide them, and should have a track record of helping students improve their scores. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Memphis who specialize in GRE preparation and can provide personalized instruction tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either a full practice test or targeted questions across all three sections—to establish your baseline score and identify your strongest and weakest areas. Your instructor will discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific concerns, then outline the 5-week curriculum and what you can expect from each session. This foundation helps ensure your prep plan is personalized to your needs rather than generic.