How to Prepare for GRE and TOEFL for MS Admissions: Expert Insights & Underrated Strategies

It is quite overwhelming to prepare for the GRE and TOEFL; however, with the right approach and underrated tips, you can ace these exams and strengthen your application for an MS study in the USA. Though general strategies provide a good foundation, small hidden gems often make the biggest difference in performance. This guide from HelloUni combines well-known and underrated techniques to help you prepare efficiently for the GRE and TOEFL.

Why GRE and TOEFL Matter for MS Study in the USA?

GRE (Graduate Record Examination):

Measures Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing—skills crucial for graduate-level studies.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

Tests your proficiency in reading, listening, speaking, and writing in academic settings.

Universities in the USA often require a competitive GRE score (310+) and a TOEFL score (90+) for MS programs. Excelling in these exams strengthens your application.

General GRE Prepare Strategies

1. Master the GRE Verbal Section

Build vocabulary using tools like Magoosh GRE Flashcards and read academic journals (The Economist, Scientific American).

Practice understanding context over memorization. GRE tests words in use, not in isolation.

2. Tackle GRE Quantitative Reasoning

Focus on foundational concepts: arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.

Use the Manhattan 5lb Book and GMAT Club Forums for challenging practice questions.

Practice with time constraints to improve speed and accuracy.

3. Ace the GRE Analytical Writing Section

Develop a universal essay framework with-

Introduction: Clear thesis statement.

Body: Three paragraphs with one main point each.

Conclusion: Summarize your argument.

Analyze ETS sample essays to understand high-scoring responses, their features and strengths.

General TOEFL Prepare Strategies

1. Reading & Listening

Read academic texts daily. Focus on key points and summarize paragraphs.

Listen to TED Talks, university lectures, or podcasts. Practice active note-taking with trigger words like Who, What, Why, and How.

2. Speaking Section

Practice timed responses (45-60 seconds). Start your answers with a confident hook:

“It is my firm belief that digital platforms have made quality education available to students worldwide.”

Record and compare your responses to model answers on platforms like E2 Test Prep.

3. Writing Section

Use a clear structure for both essay types:

Integrated Task: Summarize main ideas from reading and listening.

Independent Task: State your opinion with specific examples.

Underrated GRE Prepare & TOEFL Prepare Strategies

1. Context Over Memorization for GRE Verbal

Stop memorizing word lists. Instead, write each word in three context-specific sentences (formal, casual, and academic).

2. Simplify GRE Verbal Sentences

Break complex sentences into basic subject-verb-object structures to uncover their meaning.

Example:

“Despite objections, the scientist, driven by his passion, persevered through experimentation.”

Simplified: The scientist persevered despite objections.

3. GRE Quant: Fix Weak Spots with the 80/20 Rule

Spend 80% of your time on weak topics like word problems and data interpretation. These are common but often neglected areas.

4. TOEFL Listening: Active Shorthand Note-Taking

Write key points using symbols and abbreviations. Example:

“Important economic theory” → Econ Th >> Imp.

5. TOEFL Speaking: Own the First 10 Seconds

Start every response with a strong opening line to boost confidence and fluency.

Example:

“In my opinion, books are a timeless way to gain new insights and learn about the world.”

6. Simulate Tougher Test Conditions

GRE Prepare: Reduce time limits during mock exams (e.g., 28 minutes for Verbal instead of 35).

TOEFL Prepare: Practice speaking in noisy environments like a busy room to improve focus.

7. Use Niche Resources Others, Miss,

GRE Quant: Explore GMAT Club Forums for tougher questions.

TOEFL Listening: Use tools like SpeechTexter to transcribe and evaluate your speech.

8. Build Endurance Like an Athlete

Simulate an entire exam day: Take a GRE mock test followed by two TOEFL sections (Listening and Writing). This boosts mental stamina.

9. Adjust Your Sleep Cycle to Match Test Hours

If your GRE or TOEFL exam is at 9 AM, train your brain to be active at that time by scheduling study sessions accordingly.

10. Leverage Technology for Smarter Preparation

GRE Prepare: Use Anki for personalized flashcards and spaced repetition.

TOEFL Prepare: Listen to TED Talks and practice speaking with apps like Duolingo English Test for fluency improvement.

Conclusion: Preparation That Sets You Apart

Acing the GRE and TOEFL is more than just practice—it’s about smart, focused strategies that leverage both popular and underrated techniques. By combining foundational preparation with unique methods like active note-taking, real-time simulations, and niche resources, you can excel in both exams and confidently apply with confidence for your MS study in the USA.

Start implementing these strategies today, and remember: train smarter, not harder. Studying in the USA might be much easier if you smartegise!