What score will my GRE AWA essay get, and how is it graded?
16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Muskan Vashishtha · 1 min read
Quick Answer
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The GRE AWA essay is typically graded on a scale of 0 to 6 by one human and one computer grader. If they agree, that is your score; if not, a second human reviews it. A score of 4.0 or higher is usually considered good, though expectations vary by university.
Your GRE essay is graded on a scale of 0 to 6, and graders focus on how well you explain your ideas. Two different graders, one human and one computer, typically look at your work.
What Graders Look For
| Criterion | Question asked |
|---|---|
| Clear position (issue task) | Do you take a firm side on the issue? |
| Good examples | Do you use facts or stories to prove your point? |
| Organization | Is your essay easy to follow from start to finish? |
| Grammar | Is your English clear and mostly free of mistakes? |
How the Final Score Is Decided
- If the two graders agree, that is your score.
- When the two scores differ, another human grader reviews the essay.
- A score of 4.0 or higher is usually considered good for most GRE-accepting colleges, but check each university's expectation.
My Advice
In the issue task, write with a clear position, support it with examples and keep the essay well organised. Check your target universities' expectations for the writing score.
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