Deciding on a graduate program in engineering can be an exciting yet challenging process. An important part of the application is your GRE score. Engineering programs often have high expectations when it comes to test scores, especially for the quantitative section. So what constitutes a good GRE score for acceptance into top engineering graduate programs in the United States?

In this comprehensive guide, we will examine typical GRE scores for admission at the best engineering schools across the country. We will look at average overall scores as well as break it down by the quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing sections. We will also go over strategies to help you achieve a competitive GRE score for engineering graduate school.

Prepare for the GRE at Clever Academy

When prepping for the GRE, it is essential to use top-notch test prep materials. This is especially true for engineers aiming for high quantitative scores. Clever Academy offers premier GRE quant preparation through online courses, private tutoring, and more.

Clever Academy’s instructors all scored in the 99th percentile on the actual GRE. They leverage their insider knowledge to help students master every quantitative concept tested on the exam. Lessons focus on shortcuts, strategies, and realistic practice to build speed and accuracy. Students who complete Clever Academy’s flagship preparation course raise their GRE quant score by an average of 7 points. We have both online & offline prep options to suit everyone’s needs.

Beyond quant, Clever Academy also provides verbal and analytical writing prep. Their holistic curriculum covers all facets of GRE mastery. Students gain the skills and confidence to conquer the test.

Investing in quality test prep from Clever Academy can make the difference in hitting your target engineering GRE scores. Their proven training methods deliver measurable score increases so you can get accepted to your desired program.

A Good GRE Quantitative Score

The quantitative section is the most vital part of the GRE for admission to engineering graduate programs. Strong math skills are essential for success in the engineering field, so admissions committees pay close attention to applicants’ quantitative scores. What is considered a good GRE quantitative score for an engineering program?

At top-ranked engineering schools, the average GRE quantitative score for admitted students tends to be very high. Here is a look at typical quantitative scores at some of the best engineering graduate programs:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): 166 (90th percentile)
• Stanford University: 167 (91st percentile)
• University of California, Berkeley: 166 (90th percentile)
• Carnegie Mellon University: 166 (90th percentile)
• Georgia Institute of Technology: 164 (89th percentile)
• University of Michigan: 166 (90th percentile)

As you can see, a quantitative score above 165 (around the 90th percentile) is common at elite engineering schools. Applicants who score below the 160s may have a hard time getting into top programs.

While the above scores are averages, to be on the safe side it is wise to aim even higher on the quantitative section. Scoring in the 90th percentile or above gives you the best chance of admission success at highly competitive engineering graduate programs.

A Good GRE Verbal Score

The GRE verbal section tends to be less critical for engineering applicants than the quantitative section. Still, admissions committees want to see that you have reasonably strong verbal skills as well.

For top engineering schools, a verbal score above 153 (62nd percentile) is typically considered solid. The average GRE verbal score for engineering applicants is 151. Scoring near or above that average can help balance out an application.

Exceptionally low verbal scores below 146 (30th percentile) may raise concerns, even for quantitative-focused engineering applicants. Doing practice problems and learning essential verbal strategies from a top GRE prep program can help boost your verbal score.

A Good GRE Analytical Writing Score

The GRE Analytical Writing section measures your ability to articulate complex ideas. For graduate engineering applicants, a score of 4.0 or higher is ideal. The average writing score for admitted engineering students falls between 4.0 and 4.5.

Earning a 5.0 or higher puts you ahead of the curve. Scores below 3.5 may potentially raise red flags with admissions committees.

Practicing timed essay writing and getting feedback from GRE instructors can transform your analytical writing abilities. Investing time in thoughtful practice essays is key to excelling on this section.

Conclusion

To summarize, the following GRE scores will make your application stand out at top engineering graduate programs in the United States:

• Quantitative: 165+ (around 90th percentile)
• Verbal: 153+ (above 62nd percentile)
• Analytical Writing: 4.0+

Scoring at or above these benchmarks indicates you have the academic skills to handle rigorous engineering coursework. Combine competitive GRE scores with a strong academic background, recommendations, and statement of purpose to maximize your chances of admission success.

Preparing with a proven test prep company like Clever Academy is the best way to achieve your target GRE scores for engineering school. Their expert instruction provides the techniques and practice you need to master all sections of the exam. Investing in quality GRE prep gives you the greatest advantage in the engineering graduate school admissions process.