Why is the test getting longer? What is the difference between a CAT and a CBT?
The main reason for the increase in time is that ETS is changing the GRE’s format from a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) to a Computer Based Test (CBT). Currently the GRE is given in a CAT format where the difficultly of question you see depends on if you correctly answered the previous question. A CAT can score your exam using fewer questions because the questions you are given are adapted based on your performance. Each test taker is given a different mix of questions depending on how well they do on each question. This way, the test “hones in” on your score. The new GRE is a linear computer-based test. Everyone that takes the test on the same day you do will see the same questions. The new exam will include more questions in order to test varied difficulty levels. You will be scored on the number of questions you get right, wrong or leave blank.
