Score improvement depends on your starting point and baseline familiarity with the test. Students who are new to the GRE typically see 50-100 point improvements with focused prep, while those targeting specific weak areas often see larger gains in those sections. The key is identifying your baseline through a practice test early on, then concentrating efforts on the areas where you'll gain the most points. Consistent daily practice—especially on challenging question types—is more important than the length of your prep timeline.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges on the GRE because each section has strict time limits (about 1.5 minutes per Verbal question, 2 minutes per Quant question). Expert tutors help you develop strategies like identifying which questions to tackle first, when to skip and return to difficult problems, and how to manage anxiety that can slow you down. Practice tests are essential—taking full-length timed tests weekly helps you internalize pacing patterns and build confidence before test day.

Most test-takers have a stronger section, and that's completely normal. The GRE adapts its difficulty based on your performance, so the test actually rewards you for doing well in your stronger area by giving you harder questions. The strategy is to maximize your score in your stronger section while dedicating focused time to addressing gaps in your weaker section. Tutors can help you prioritize which concepts to tackle first and which question types deserve the most practice.

Taking at least 3-4 full-length practice tests during a 5-week program is ideal—one at the beginning to establish your baseline, 1-2 in the middle weeks to track progress, and one closer to your test date to simulate test-day conditions. Each practice test should be taken under timed conditions and reviewed thoroughly to identify patterns in mistakes. Between full tests, you'll want to practice individual sections and question types to build specific skills.

The Analytical Writing section (two essays) is often overlooked but can impact your overall profile, especially for graduate programs that value strong writing. In a 5-week program, you should dedicate time to understanding the essay prompts, practicing under timed conditions (30 minutes per essay), and getting feedback on your arguments and clarity. Many students improve significantly in this section with focused practice because it's less about math or vocabulary and more about clear thinking and organization.

Test anxiety is common, and the best antidote is familiarity and confidence built through practice. Taking multiple practice tests under realistic conditions helps desensitize you to the pressure, while working with a tutor allows you to address specific content gaps that fuel anxiety. Developing a consistent study routine, setting achievable weekly goals, and practicing relaxation techniques also help. Remember that the GRE is a learnable test—improvement is absolutely possible with the right approach.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Nashville who specialize in GRE prep and can tailor a 5-week program to your schedule and goals. You'll start by taking a diagnostic practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses, then work with your tutor to build a focused study plan. Whether you prefer personalized 1-on-1 instruction or have specific scheduling needs, Varsity Tutors matches you with the right tutor for your situation.