GRE POWERPREP

GRE POWERPREP is ETS’s official practice suite for the GRE General Test, built around full-length simulations rather than a broad course curriculum. It is best for applicants who need to learn the exam’s format and pacing from the test maker, with free starting points and a more detailed paid simulation for deeper review.

Overview

POWERPREP focuses on the mechanics that matter on test day: GRE structure, question types, scoring, testing tools and strategy under timed conditions. The two free tests make it a sensible first stop for anyone unfamiliar with the interface or exam flow. Candidates seeking extensive teaching content, however, will find this a practice-test product rather than a complete study program.

Access is managed through an ETS account. Add a test in the Shop for Test Preparation area, then launch it from My Test Preparation and Services. That extra account step is straightforward but means practice is tied to the ETS portal instead of a standalone app.

Key features

The free POWERPREP 2 is a full-length timed test with an answer key, scored Analytical Writing sample essays, rater commentary and a performance report. It is the most useful no-cost option for rehearsing pacing across the exam and reviewing writing performance.

POWERPREP 1 is also full length but untimed. It supplies the answer key, scored writing samples and performance report, yet gives no Verbal Reasoning or Quantitative Reasoning scores. Use it to learn question formats and tools, not to estimate your section-level readiness.

POWERPREP PLUS Online is the closest simulation in this range. It supports timed testing, movement between questions and answer changes within sections, then returns instant scores, answer explanations, difficulty insights and scored sample essays. Those controls and diagnostics make PLUS particularly valuable when your priority is pacing analysis and targeted review rather than simply accumulating another exam attempt.

Online practice supports extended time, extra breaks, screen magnification, selectable colors, screen readers and refreshable braille. Magnification, color selection, screen-reader and braille modes require the downloadable GRE Practice Test software. On Mac, built-in accommodations currently cover only extended time and extra breaks, so candidates who rely on other adjustments should plan around that constraint.

Pricing

Plan	Price	What you get
POWERPREP 2 timed practice test	free	One full-length timed test, answer key, scored Analytical Writing sample essays and performance report
POWERPREP 1 untimed practice test	free	One full-length untimed test, no Verbal or Quantitative scores, answer key, scored writing samples and performance report
POWERPREP Online	Custom pricing	Two practice tests
POWERPREP PLUS Online	$44.95 a month, billed per practice test	Three practice tests sold separately, with the PLUS simulation and enhanced scoring feedback

The free plans are enough to become familiar with the exam and complete one timed rehearsal, but the untimed test’s missing section scores limit its diagnostic value. POWERPREP Online adds two tests, while PLUS charges per practice test at the stated monthly rate; choose it when detailed explanations and difficulty information justify paying for additional attempts. There is no free trial.

Platforms

GRE POWERPREP runs on the web, Windows and macOS. ETS lists Windows 7, 8.1 and 10 for PCs and OS X 10.7 or later for Macs. Chrome is recommended on PC and Safari 10 or later on Mac, with a minimum 1280 × 1024 display and one monitor; dual displays are not supported. The downloadable software requirement for several accessibility modes makes system compatibility worth checking before purchase.

Who it's for

Choose POWERPREP if you are taking the GRE General Test and want official, full-length practice that mirrors the exam’s navigation, timing and scoring approach. It is especially well suited to first-time test takers, applicants validating readiness close to test day and candidates who need accessibility accommodations.

It is less suitable as a sole preparation resource for learners who need lessons, large question banks or a structured multi-week curriculum. The product is narrowly focused on one exam and on test simulation.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Official exam alignment: ETS’s own practice reflects the GRE format, tools and scoring conventions.
• Useful free entry point: A full timed test and a separate untimed test cost nothing.
• Strong PLUS diagnostics: Instant scores, explanations, difficulty insights and scored essays make review more actionable.
• Accessibility coverage: Extended time, breaks, visual options, screen readers and braille are supported, subject to software and Mac limits.

Cons

• Limited scope: It provides practice tests rather than comprehensive instruction.
• Untimed-score gap: POWERPREP 1 cannot assess Verbal or Quantitative performance.
• Paid-test structure: PLUS lists $44.95 a month billed per practice test, with three tests sold separately.
• Older system requirements: Browser, resolution, single-monitor and operating-system constraints may require setup adjustments.

Alternatives

GregMat is the better choice when you want GRE practice alongside videos, study-plan modules and three free full practice tests; its GregMAT+ plan is $11.99 a month.

TOEFL TestReady fits applicants preparing for TOEFL iBT instead of the GRE, with a free plan and a full scored practice test.

LSAT Demon is for LSAT candidates who need released exams, lessons and tutoring tools rather than GRE simulations.

GMAT Official Prep suits GMAT candidates seeking official practice exams.

Medify targets UCAT, GAMSAT, interview and A-level preparation.

PTE Academic Smart Prep is aimed at PTE Academic candidates wanting scored practice tests.

Kaplan Test Prep is a broader paid-course option for learners seeking scheduled instruction.

PTE Tutorials focuses on PTE practice questions, model answers and AI scoring.

Browse the Exam Prep Apps list for more category options.

Verdict

GRE POWERPREP is the right choice for GRE applicants who value official full-length rehearsal, especially the free timed test or PLUS’s detailed simulation feedback. Look elsewhere if you need a complete teaching course, extensive drills or preparation for an exam other than the GRE.