The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required for entrance to most graduate programs and includes a general as well as a subject-specific test. The general test measures verbal, quantitative, and analytical reasoning skills as well as critical thinking skills and writing ability. These are the skills deemed necessary for success in any graduate program. The subject test will measure your knowledge of facts and concepts within a specific subject area, such as Psychology or Physics. Whether you take one or both tests depends upon your chosen field of study.