What to expect in this Test?

Organised into three major areas of biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology & genetics, this Subject Test contains about 180 multiple-choice questions. Many of these are grouped in sets toward the end of the test and are based on laboratory situations, diagrams, or experimental results. In addition to the total score, a sub-score in each of these areas is reported. Since these three disciplines are basic to the study of all organisms, test questions include both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. The three sub-score areas are interrelated. Subsequently, individual questions or sets of questions may test more than one content area. Likewise, the topics listed are not all-inclusive, they represent the typical undergraduate experience. T he GRE Board doesn't expect you (the examinees) to have encountered all the topics mentioned in the content chart. As a result, none of you are expected to know the answers to the entire question.


What does it aim to test?

Right through the test, there is a strong emphasis on questions requiring problem-solving skills (including mathematical calculations that do not require the use of a calculator) as well as knowledge of the content. Mind you, while only two content areas in the following outline specifically mention methodology, questions on methodology and data interpretation are included in all sections. In developing questions for the test, the test development committee considers both the content of typical courses taken by undergraduates and the knowledge and abilities required for graduate work in the fields related to the test.

  Biochemistry — 36%

A. Chemical and Physical Foundations
B. Biomolecules
C. Catalysis and Binding
D. Major Metabolic Pathways
E. Bioenergetics (including respiration and photosynthesis)
F. Regulation and Integration of Metabolism
G. Methodology


  Cell Biology — 28%

A. Cellular Compartments of Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes: Organization, Dynamics, and Functions
B. Cell Surface and Communication
C. Cytoskeleton, Motility, and Shape
D. Protein Synthesis and Processing
E. Cell Division, Differentiation, and Development


  Molecular Biology and Genetics — 36%

A. Genetic Foundations
B. Chromatin and Chromosomes
C. Genomics
D. Genome Maintenance
E. Gene Expression
F. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes
G. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes
H. Bacteriophages and Animal and Plant Viruses
I. Methodology