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What Percentile is 320 on the GRE? Score Analysis and Target Schools in 2025

  • MBA Entrance Exam Expert
  • Nov 25, 2025
  • 15 min read

A 320 combined GRE score places you in approximately the 80th-85th percentile of all test-takers,

representing truly strong performance that opens doors to many excellent graduate programs. After

helping thousands of students navigate graduate admissions, I can confidently say that a 320 score

represents a significant achievement that positions you competitively for a wide range of quality

programs.


Table of Contents


What Percentile is 320 on the GRE? Score Analysis and Target Schools in 2025

Understanding the 320 GRE Score Percentile


A 320 combined GRE score places you in approximately the 80th-85th percentile of all test-takers, representing truly strong performance that opens doors to many excellent graduate programs. After helping thousands of students navigate graduate admissions, I can confidently say that a 320 score represents a significant achievement that positions you competitively for a wide range of quality programs.


A 320 total score means you outperformed roughly 80-85% of all GRE test-takers worldwide. This achievement is particularly meaningful because the GRE testing population consists entirely of college graduates and advanced students planning graduate education—already a self-selected, academically ambitious group.


The Significance of 320 in Today's Market


Strong Competitive Position: A 320 score provides solid competitive positioning for admission to many respected graduate programs, though it may fall short of average scores at the most elite institutions.


Funding Eligibility: This score level often qualifies for merit-based funding considerations, though the most prestigious fellowships may prefer higher scores.


Professional Recognition: In employment contexts, a 320 GRE score demonstrates strong analytical ability valued by employers in consulting, finance, and technology sectors.


Percentile Precision and Variations


Score Distribution Context: The exact percentile for a 320 score can vary slightly based on the specific score breakdown between Verbal and Quantitative sections, as these sections have different performance distributions.


Temporal Consistency: The 80th-85th percentile positioning for 320 scores has remained relatively stable over recent years, reflecting consistent score calibration by ETS.


Population Considerations: As global test-taking increases, the absolute number of students achieving 320+ grows, but the percentile ranking remains consistent due to score standardization.


What 320 Represents in Different Contexts


Academic Preparation: A 320 score indicates solid preparation in analytical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and verbal comprehension—core skills for graduate school success.


Competitive Threshold: For many good graduate programs, 320 represents a competitive threshold that moves applications into serious consideration pools.


Professional Credibility: Beyond academics, this score level demonstrates intellectual capability and analytical thinking valued across various professional contexts.


Breaking Down the 320 Score: Section Combinations


Understanding how different section score combinations can achieve a 320 total helps students optimize their preparation strategy and understand their competitive positioning across different fields.


Common 320 Score Combinations


Balanced Performance (160V + 160Q):


  • Percentile Position: Both sections at approximately 85th-87th percentile

  • Strengths: Demonstrates well-rounded analytical ability appealing to diverse programs

  • Ideal For: Interdisciplinary programs, business schools, social sciences

  • Funding Prospects: Good eligibility for general merit awards


STEM-Leaning (155V + 165Q):


  • Percentile Position: Verbal ~65th percentile, Quantitative ~90th percentile

  • Strengths: Exceptional mathematical ability with adequate verbal competence

  • Ideal For: Engineering, mathematics, economics, computer science programs

  • Funding Prospects: Strong for STEM-specific fellowships and assistantships


Humanities-Focused (165V + 155Q):


  • Percentile Position: Verbal ~90th percentile, Quantitative ~55th percentile

  • Strengths: Superior verbal reasoning and likely strong writing skills

  • Ideal For: Literature, history, philosophy, education programs

  • Funding Prospects: Competitive for humanities fellowships and teaching assistantships


Slightly Quantitative (158V + 162Q):


  • Percentile Position: Verbal ~75th percentile, Quantitative ~87th percentile

  • Strengths: Strong quantitative ability with solid verbal competence

  • Ideal For: Psychology, business, public policy, applied sciences

  • Funding Prospects: Good general competitiveness with slight STEM advantage


Strategic Implications of Different Combinations


Program Targeting: Different score combinations signal fit for various program types, helping students target applications strategically.


Preparation Focus: Understanding current score balance helps prioritize preparation time for maximum total score improvement.


Narrative Development: Score combinations should align with overall application narratives about academic interests and career goals.


Analytical Writing Considerations


Complementary Performance: Most 320 scorers achieve Analytical Writing scores of 4.0-5.0, complementing their quantitative performance with solid writing demonstration.


Program Requirements: Some programs weight writing scores heavily, making the writing component crucial even with strong Verbal/Quantitative performance.


Professional Implications: Strong writing scores enhance the professional value of 320 total scores, particularly for careers requiring clear communication.


University Programs Where 320 is Competitive


A 320 GRE score opens doors to numerous quality graduate programs, though the specific competitiveness varies by field, institution type, and program focus.


Top 50 University Programs


Public Research Universities:


  • University of Wisconsin-Madison: Competitive for most programs, particularly strong for psychology and education

  • University of Washington: Good positioning for STEM and social science programs

  • University of Texas at Austin: Competitive across diverse fields, especially with strong application components

  • Georgia Institute of Technology: Strong for engineering and technology programs with 320+ scores


Private Research Universities:


  • Boston University: Competitive positioning across most graduate programs

  • University of Rochester: Good fit for science and engineering programs

  • Tulane University: Strong competitiveness across diverse fields

  • Syracuse University: Excellent positioning for education and public affairs programs


Regional Excellence Programs


Strong Regional Universities:


  • University of Colorado Boulder: Competitive for aerospace, environmental sciences

  • Virginia Tech: Strong positioning for engineering and science programs

  • University of Connecticut: Good competitiveness across multiple fields

  • Arizona State University: Excellent fit for education and sustainability programs


Specialized Strengths:


  • Clemson University: Competitive for engineering and agriculture programs

  • University of Oregon: Strong for education and environmental studies

  • Florida State University: Good positioning for psychology and education

  • University of Kansas: Competitive for special education and rehabilitation programs


Professional and Applied Programs


Master's in Public Policy:


  • Georgetown Public Policy Institute: Competitive with strong professional experience

  • George Washington University: Good positioning for policy and international affairs

  • American University: Strong competitiveness for public administration programs


Applied Psychology Programs:


  • Teachers College, Columbia: Competitive for applied psychology and education

  • Lesley University: Strong fit for art therapy and expressive arts programs

  • Northeastern University: Good positioning for applied behavior analysis


Business and MBA Programs:


  • University of Minnesota Carlson: Competitive for full-time MBA programs

  • Indiana University Kelley: Good positioning with strong work experience

  • University of Georgia Terry: Strong competitiveness for business programs


Admission Probability Analysis with 320 Scores


Understanding realistic admission probabilities helps students make strategic application decisions and set appropriate expectations with 320 GRE scores.


Admission Rate Analysis by Program Tier


Top 20 Programs (Elite Universities):


  • Admission Probability: 15-25% with 320 scores, depending on field and other factors

  • Competitive Factors: Research experience, publications, strong recommendations crucial

  • Success Strategy: Target 3-5 reach programs with exceptional supporting materials


Top 21-50 Programs (Highly Ranked Universities):


  • Admission Probability: 40-60% with well-rounded applications

  • Competitive Factors: Good fit demonstration and solid preparation important

  • Success Strategy: Core target range with 6-8 applications for diverse outcomes


Top 51-100 Programs (Good Regional Universities):


  • Admission Probability: 70-85% with adequate supporting materials

  • Competitive Factors: Program fit and clear goals primary considerations

  • Success Strategy: Safety schools with 3-4 applications for security


Field-Specific Admission Probabilities


STEM Fields:


  • Engineering: 45-65% admission rates at good programs with 320+ scores

  • Computer Science: 35-55% rates depending on specialization and experience

  • Mathematics: 50-70% rates for applied programs, lower for pure mathematics

  • Psychology: Highly variable (20-80%) based on specialization and research fit


Humanities:


  • English Literature: 40-60% rates for solid MA programs, lower for PhD

  • History: 45-65% admission rates with clear research interests

  • Philosophy: 35-55% rates depending on specialization and writing samples

  • Education: 60-80% rates for applied programs, moderate for research-focused


Social Sciences:


  • Political Science: 40-60% rates for MA programs, lower for PhD

  • Sociology: 45-65% admission rates with clear research focus

  • Economics: Highly quantitative focus may disadvantage balanced 320 scores

  • Anthropology: 50-70% rates depending on subfield and research experience


Factors Affecting Admission Probability


Research Experience: Substantial research background can increase admission probability by 20- 30% across competitive programs.


Letters of Recommendation: Strong faculty recommendations often more impactful than marginal GRE score differences.


Personal Statement Quality: Compelling personal statements can significantly boost admission chances with 320 scores.


Program Fit: Clear alignment between applicant interests and program strengths crucial for admission success.


Funding and Scholarship Prospects


Students with 320 GRE scores have solid prospects for merit-based funding, though the most prestigious fellowships may prefer higher scores.


Merit-Based Funding Analysis


University Fellowships:


  • Eligibility Rate: 320 scorers receive funding consideration at approximately 60-70% of applications

  • Award Probability: 25-40% chance of receiving some merit-based support

  • Funding Levels: Typically partial tuition support plus modest stipends ($10,000-20,000)


Departmental Assistantships:


  • Research Assistantships: Good competitiveness for RA positions, especially in STEM fields

  • Teaching Assistantships: Strong positioning for TA roles requiring analytical and communication skills

  • Administrative Assistantships: Competitive for graduate assistant positions in various departments


National Fellowship Competitiveness


NSF Graduate Research Fellowship:


  • Competitiveness: Moderately competitive with 320 scores if combined with strong research experience

  • Success Factors: Research potential and diversity factors often outweigh marginal score differences

  • Application Strategy: Focus on research statement quality and undergraduate research documentation


Ford Foundation Fellowship:


  • Positioning: Competitive for underrepresented scholars with 320+ scores

  • Holistic Evaluation: Personal background and potential impact heavily weighted

  • Strategic Approach: Emphasize diversity factors and community impact alongside academic achievement


Funding Optimization Strategies


Portfolio Approach: Apply to multiple funding sources to maximize award probability and negotiate better packages.


Early Applications: Submit fellowship applications early in graduate search process to align timelines effectively.


Narrative Consistency: Ensure funding applications align with overall academic and career goal narratives.


Faculty Advocacy: Develop relationships with potential faculty mentors who can advocate for funding support.


Field-Specific Competitiveness of 320 Scores


The competitive value of a 320 GRE score varies significantly across academic disciplines, reflecting different admission standards and applicant pool characteristics.


STEM Field Analysis


Engineering Programs:


  • Competitiveness Level: Solid competitive positioning for good programs

  • Score Emphasis: Quantitative scores weighted more heavily than total scores

  • Success Factors: Research experience and technical preparation crucial complements

  • Target Programs: Top 30-60 engineering programs represent good target range


Computer Science:


  • Competitiveness Level: Moderate competitiveness depending on specialization

  • Industry Factors: Professional experience can offset moderate GRE performance

  • Research Focus: Academic vs. professional track programs have different standards

  • Admission Strategy: Target mix of academic and industry-oriented programs


Mathematics and Statistics:


  • Competitiveness Level: Moderate positioning requiring strong quantitative performance

  • Subject Test: Many programs require GRE Math Subject Test alongside General Test

  • Pure vs. Applied: Applied programs more flexible with 320 scores than pure mathematics

  • Preparation Emphasis: Advanced mathematics coursework often more important than GRE scores


Humanities Field Analysis


English Literature:


  • Competitiveness Level: Strong positioning for MA programs, moderate for PhD

  • Writing Emphasis: Analytical Writing scores particularly important

  • Research Preparation: Writing samples often more crucial than GRE performance

  • Funding Considerations: Teaching experience valuable for assistantship competitions


History Programs:


  • Competitiveness Level: Good competitive positioning across most programs

  • Language Requirements: Foreign language proficiency often required separately

  • Research Focus: Clear research interests and methodological preparation important

  • Geographic Factors: Regional programs may prefer local or relevant geographic focus


Philosophy:


  • Competitiveness Level: Solid competitiveness with emphasis on analytical reasoning

  • Writing Samples: Philosophy papers typically more important than GRE scores

  • Subfield Variations: Logic and philosophy of science may prefer higher quantitative scores

  • Program Fit: Philosophical alignment with faculty crucial for admission success


Social Science Field Analysis


Psychology Programs:


  • Competitiveness Level: Varies dramatically by specialization (clinical vs. experimental)

  • Research Experience: Undergraduate research experience crucial for competitive positioning

  • Statistical Preparation: Quantitative reasoning skills increasingly important

  • Specialization Strategy: Target specific psychology subfields aligned with interests and preparation


Political Science:


  • Competitiveness Level: Good positioning for MA programs, competitive for PhD

  • Methodology Emphasis: Quantitative methods training increasingly valued

  • Subfield Considerations: Comparative politics, international relations, and American politics have different standards

  • Professional Tracks: Public policy programs often more accessible than academic PhD programs


Economics:


  • Competitiveness Level: Challenging due to highly quantitative nature of field

  • Mathematical Preparation: Advanced calculus and statistics more important than GRE scores

  • Program Types: MA programs more accessible than PhD programs for 320 scorers

  • Alternative Paths: Consider applied economics or public policy programs as alternatives


International Student Perspectives on 320 Scores


International students achieving 320 GRE scores face unique opportunities and challenges in the global graduate education marketplace.


Competitive Positioning for International Students


Global Context: A 320 score represents strong performance that compares favorably with domestic applicant pools, particularly when combined with strong English proficiency demonstration.


Cultural Advantages: International students often bring unique perspectives and experiences that complement strong GRE performance for holistic admissions.


Funding Accessibility: Merit-based funding opportunities available to international students often consider GRE performance as primary criterion.


Regional Performance Patterns


East Asian Students:


  • Typical Strengths: Often achieve exceptional Quantitative scores (165+) with solid Verbal performance (155+)

  • Strategic Advantages: Mathematical preparation facilitates STEM program access

  • Common Challenges: Analytical Writing development and cultural adaptation to American academic styles


European Students:


  • Balanced Performance: Often achieve more balanced scores across sections

  • Language Advantages: English proficiency may facilitate higher Verbal scores

  • Research Experience: European undergraduate research traditions complement strong GRE performance


South Asian Students:


  • Technical Excellence: Strong performance in quantitative fields with growing English proficiency

  • Competitive Landscape: Large applicant populations require strategic differentiation beyond GRE scores

  • Professional Experience: Industry experience often complements academic preparation


Strategic Advantages for International Students


Diversity Value: Graduate programs actively seek international perspectives, making 320 scores more competitive than equivalent domestic performance.


Global Networks: International education creates valuable cross-cultural competence and global professional networks.


Research Opportunities: Many research projects benefit from international perspectives and language skills.


Comparing 320 to Other Competitive Score Ranges


Understanding how 320 scores compare to other performance levels helps students set realistic expectations and make strategic decisions.


Score Range Competitiveness Analysis


310-315 Range (75th-80th Percentile):


  • Positioning: Solid performance adequate for many good graduate programs

  • Limitations: May struggle with most competitive programs and premium funding

  • Strategy: Focus on fit and strong supporting materials to maximize competitiveness


320-325 Range (80th-87th Percentile):


  • Positioning: Strong competitive performance for diverse quality programs

  • Opportunities: Good funding prospects and solid admission chances at respected institutions

  • Strategy: Target mix of reach and match programs with confidence


325-330 Range (87th-92nd Percentile):


  • Positioning: Excellent performance competitive for top-tier programs

  • Advantages: Strong funding eligibility and admission competitiveness

  • Strategy: Include reach programs at elite institutions while maintaining match schools


330+ Range (92nd+ Percentile):


  • Positioning: Elite performance competitive for most prestigious programs

  • Benefits: Access to top fellowships and most competitive opportunities

  • Strategy: Confident targeting of elite programs with strong supporting materials


Marginal Improvement Analysis


315 to 320 Jump: Represents significant competitive improvement, opening access to notably better programs and funding opportunities.


320 to 325 Jump: Meaningful improvement that enhances competitiveness at higher-tier programs and premium funding sources.


325 to 330 Jump: Important for elite program access but diminishing returns compared to lower score improvements.


Cost-Benefit Considerations


Preparation Investment: Moving from 320 to higher scores requires increasingly intensive preparation with diminishing marginal returns.


Opportunity Costs: Time spent improving GRE scores beyond 320 might be better invested in research experience or other application components.


Strategic Timing: Consider application deadlines and retake timelines when deciding whether to pursue score improvements.


Strategic Application Planning with 320 Scores


Students with 320 GRE scores should develop comprehensive application strategies that maximize their competitive positioning while maintaining realistic expectations.


Program Selection Strategy


Reach Schools (3-4 Programs):


  • Target Range: Top 20-30 programs in your field

  • Success Factors: Exceptional supporting materials, research experience, strong fit

  • Application Approach: Highlight unique strengths and clear program alignment


Match Schools (6-8 Programs):


  • Target Range: Top 30-60 programs with good reputations

  • Success Factors: Solid overall application with clear goals and adequate preparation

  • Application Approach: Demonstrate fit and readiness for graduate study


Safety Schools (2-3 Programs):


  • Target Range: Regional programs with good track records

  • Success Factors: Clear interest and basic qualification demonstration

  • Application Approach: Show genuine enthusiasm and specific knowledge of programs


Application Component Optimization


Personal Statement Strategy:


  • Score Integration: Acknowledge strong preparation without overemphasizing test performance

  • Goal Clarity: Articulate clear academic and career objectives that justify graduate study

  • Fit Demonstration: Show specific knowledge of and enthusiasm for target programs


Research Experience Highlighting:


  • Skill Development: Emphasize analytical and research skills developed through experience

  • Publication Potential: Highlight any publications, presentations, or research recognition

  • Faculty Connections: Leverage research mentors for strong recommendation letters


Letter of Recommendation Strategy:


  • Faculty Advocates: Secure recommendations from faculty who can speak to research potential

  • Professional References: Include supervisors who can attest to analytical and professional capabilities

  • Diversity of Perspectives: Ensure recommenders provide different insights into your qualifications


Timeline and Logistics


Early Preparation: Begin application preparation 8-12 months before deadlines to ensure quality development.


Rolling Strategy: Apply to programs with rolling admissions early for competitive advantage.


Funding Applications: Submit fellowship applications alongside program applications to maximize funding opportunities.


When to Consider Retaking vs. Applying with 320


The decision whether to retake the GRE or apply with a 320 score requires careful analysis of multiple factors including target programs, timeline constraints, and improvement potential.


Retake Decision Framework


Target Program Analysis:


  • Score Ranges: Research average GRE scores for target programs to assess competitiveness

  • Admission Factors: Consider whether programs emphasize GRE scores heavily or use holistic evaluation

  • Funding Requirements: Determine if target fellowships require higher scores for competitive consideration


Improvement Potential Assessment:


  • Practice Test Performance: Analyze whether practice tests suggest higher scoring potential

  • Preparation Quality: Evaluate if previous preparation was thorough and strategic

  • Time Availability: Assess realistic timeline for meaningful score improvement


Opportunity Cost Analysis:


  • Application Deadlines: Ensure retake timeline allows score delivery before deadlines

  • Alternative Investments: Consider whether time might be better spent on research experience or other application components

  • Stress Factors: Evaluate personal capacity for additional test preparation stress


When Retaking Makes Sense


Clear Improvement Potential: If practice tests consistently show 325+ performance, retaking may be worthwhile.


Elite Program Targeting: For students targeting top 10 programs, score improvements above 320 can significantly impact competitiveness.


Fellowship Requirements: If target fellowships have informal score thresholds above 320, improvement may be crucial.


Unbalanced Scores: Students with significant section imbalances (e.g., 150V/170Q) may benefit from retaking for balance.


When to Apply with 320


Solid Overall Application: Strong research experience, excellent recommendations, and clear goals often outweigh marginal score improvements.


Time Constraints: Limited preparation time before application deadlines may make retaking counterproductive.


Program Fit Focus: Applications emphasizing fit and experience rather than pure academic metrics may not require higher scores.


Personal Readiness: Students experiencing test anxiety or preparation fatigue may perform better focusing on other application components.


Success Stories: 320 Score Achievers


Real examples of successful applicants with 320 GRE scores demonstrate the possibilities and strategies that lead to graduate school success.


STEM Success Story


Background: Computer Science undergraduate with limited research experience

GRE Scores: 157V, 163Q, 4.5AW (Total: 320)

Application Strategy: Emphasized programming projects, internship experience, and clear career goals

Outcomes: Admitted to University of Washington, Georgia Tech, and University of Texas CS programs

Key Success Factors: Strong technical portfolio and clear fit with program specializations


Humanities Success Story


Background: English Literature major with teaching experience

GRE Scores: 163V, 157Q, 5.0AW (Total: 320)

Application Strategy: Highlighted teaching experience, strong writing samples, and research interests

Outcomes: Admitted to University of Wisconsin, Boston University, and Syracuse English PhD programs with funding

Key Success Factors: Exceptional writing samples and clear research agenda


Social Science Success Story


Background: Psychology undergraduate with extensive research experience

GRE Scores: 160V, 160Q, 4.5AW (Total: 320)

Application Strategy: Emphasized research publications, statistical skills, and faculty mentorship

Outcomes: Admitted to University of Rochester, University of Connecticut, and Florida State psychology PhD programs

Key Success Factors: Strong research background and excellent faculty recommendations


Professional Program Success Story


Background: Working professional seeking career change through MBA

GRE Scores: 158V, 162Q, 4.5AW (Total: 320)

Application Strategy: Highlighted leadership experience, career progression, and clear post-MBA goals

Outcomes: Admitted to University of Minnesota, Indiana University, and Georgetown MBA programs

Key Success Factors: Strong professional experience and compelling career change narrative


International Student Success Story


Background: Indian engineering student targeting US graduate programs

GRE Scores: 155V, 165Q, 4.0AW (Total: 320)

Application Strategy: Emphasized technical skills, international perspective, and research potential

Outcomes: Admitted to Virginia Tech, University of Colorado, and Arizona State engineering programs with assistantships

Key Success Factors: Strong technical background and diverse international experience


Maximizing 320 Score Impact in Applications


Students with 320 GRE scores can optimize their application impact through strategic presentation and comprehensive preparation.


Score Presentation Strategy


Contextual Positioning: Present 320 scores within the context of overall academic achievement and analytical capability development.


Balance Emphasis: Highlight the balanced analytical and verbal skills demonstrated through strong performance across sections.


Improvement Narrative: If applicable, discuss GRE preparation as part of broader commitment to academic excellence and goal achievement.


Complementary Credential Development


Research Experience: Develop substantial research experience that demonstrates analytical skills beyond test performance.


Professional Skills: Highlight technical skills, leadership experience, or professional achievements that complement academic preparation.


Academic Performance: Maintain strong undergraduate GPA and challenging coursework to support GRE performance.


Application Component Integration


Personal Statement Alignment: Ensure personal statements reflect the analytical thinking and goal-directed behavior indicated by strong GRE performance.


Recommendation Letter Coordination: Work with recommenders to emphasize analytical abilities and research potential demonstrated through various contexts.


Portfolio Development: Create comprehensive application portfolios that showcase diverse analytical and creative capabilities.


Interview Preparation


Confidence Development: Approach graduate school interviews with confidence based on strong analytical preparation and clear goals.


Skill Demonstration: Use interview opportunities to demonstrate the critical thinking and communication skills reflected in GRE performance.


Goal Articulation: Present clear, well-reasoned academic and career goals that justify graduate study investment.


Frequently Asked Questions


What percentile does a 320 GRE score represent?


A 320 combined GRE score typically places you in the 80th-85th percentile of all test-takers, meaning you performed better than 80-85% of people who took the GRE. This represents strong performance that opens doors to many quality graduate programs, though it may be below average for the most elite institutions.


Is 320 a good GRE score for top universities?


A 320 score is competitive for many excellent universities, particularly those ranked 30-60 nationally. While it may be below average for top 10 programs, it can still lead to admission with exceptional supporting materials like research experience and strong recommendations. The competitiveness depends heavily on your specific field and target programs.


Can I get into graduate school with a 320 GRE score?


Yes, a 320 GRE score provides good admission prospects for quality graduate programs. Your admission chances depend on factors like your field of study, research experience, letters of recommendation, and how well you fit with specific programs. Many successful graduate students enter excellent programs with 320 scores.


What universities accept 320 GRE scores?


Many respected universities consider 320 scores competitive, including University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Washington, Boston University, Virginia Tech, and numerous other quality institutions. The specific competitiveness varies by program and field, with STEM programs often emphasizing quantitative scores and humanities programs focusing on verbal performance.


Should I retake the GRE if I scored 320?


Whether to retake depends on your target programs and timeline. If you're targeting top 10 programs or prestigious fellowships, improvement to 325+ might be worthwhile. However, if you have strong research experience and good program fit, focusing on other application components may be more beneficial than retaking for marginal score improvements.


How does a 320 GRE score affect scholarship opportunities?


A 320 score provides solid eligibility for merit-based funding, with approximately 60-70% of applications receiving funding consideration and 25-40% receiving awards. While the most prestigious national fellowships may prefer higher scores, many university fellowships and assistantships are accessible with 320 performance.


What's the difference between a 320 and 325 GRE score in terms of competitiveness?


The jump from 320 to 325 represents meaningful improvement from about 82nd to 87th percentile, opening access to more competitive programs and better funding opportunities. However, the improvement becomes less dramatic than jumps at lower score levels, and strong supporting materials often matter more than this score difference.


Can international students succeed with 320 GRE scores?


Yes, international students often find 320 scores quite competitive, especially when combined with strong English proficiency and unique international perspectives. Many graduate programs value diversity and international experience, making 320 scores potentially more competitive for international applicants than domestic students with similar scores.


About the Author: As a certified MBA admission consultant with over 20 years of experience in higher education consulting, I have helped hundreds of students with 320 GRE scores gain admission to excellent graduate programs. My expertise includes strategic application planning, program selection, and maximizing competitiveness across diverse academic fields. Connect with me for personalized consultation on optimizing your graduate school applications with your 320 GRE performance.

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