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GRE Subject Test: Physics Practice Test

33 questions available

The GRE Subject Test: Physics Practice Test is a comprehensive assessment designed for undergraduate physics majors and recent graduates who are preparing for graduate school applications. This practice exam covers the full breadth of topics typically included in the official GRE Physics Subject Test, including Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Laboratory Methods, Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics, Special Relativity, Optics, Wave Phenomena, Specialized Topics (nuclear, particle, solid state), and Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics. The test consists of 35 carefully constructed questions that mirror the style, difficulty, and distribution of the actual exam. It is intended for serious learners who wish to gauge their readiness, identify strengths and weaknesses, and build confidence before taking the official test. By completing this practice exam, test-takers will gain a realistic sense of time management, question complexity, and the interdisciplinary thinking required. The content emphasizes conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply fundamental principles across multiple domains of physics. This practice test is not a substitute for comprehensive review but serves as a critical diagnostic tool and a benchmark for progress.

Certification exam
100 Exam questions
2 hours 50 minutes Time Limit
Practice bank
33 Practice Questions
33 minutes Practice Time
Start Practice
The bank 33 Practice questions checked against the official objectives.
Official objectives from ETS
ETS33 practice questionsBlueprint 1.0Bank updated 2026-07-22

Sample Questions

Try a few questions to see what the full exam is like.

Special Relativity, Optics, Wave Phenomena

Which option best identifies four-vector formalism in relativistic kinematics?

Specialized Topics (nuclear, particle, solid state)

Which option best identifies semiclassical carrier dynamics?

Laboratory Methods

Which choice is correct for project-based resource type in solid-state applications?

Specialized Topics (nuclear, particle, solid state)

Which option best identifies collective motion in solids?

Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics

Which option best identifies current-like probability flow in quantum mechanics?

Why This Certification Opens Doors

Mastering the material on this practice test matters because the GRE Physics Subject Test is often a key component of graduate school admissions in physics and related fields. A strong score can distinguish an applicant in a competitive pool, potentially opening doors to top-tier programs, research assistantships, and fellowships. Beyond admissions, the process of preparing for this exam deepens your understanding of core physics principles that underpin real-world technologies-from quantum computing and medical imaging to renewable energy systems and semiconductor devices. The analytical rigor and problem-solving habits developed here translate directly into research competence and professional expertise. In short, this practice test is not just about a score; it is about building the foundational fluency that defines a capable physicist.

Exam Blueprint

Each domain is weighted to match the real certification exam, so a full practice simulation predicts your result.

01Specialized Topics (nuclear, particle, solid state)
25%
02Classical Mechanics
20%
03Electromagnetism
18%
04Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics
12%
05Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
10%
06Special Relativity, Optics, Wave Phenomena
9%
07Laboratory Methods
6%

Exam Details GRE-PHYS | $150 USD | 2 hours 50 minutes

Exam Code GRE-PHYS
Vendor ETS
Exam Cost $150 USD
Time Limit 2 hours 50 minutes
Exam questions 100
Question TypesMultiple Choice, Select All That Apply, Numeric Entry, Essay (constructed response)
Retake Policy GRE General: once every 21 days, maximum 5 times in any continuous rolling 12-month period. GRE Subject Tests: offered only 3 times per year (Sep, Oct, Apr); one attempt per administration. TOEFL iBT: once every 3 days; unlimited attempts. Praxis: retake policies vary by state; typically a 21-28 day waiting period after a failed attempt.
Exam Format Paper-based (linear); Prometric test centers only
Online Proctoring Available

Study Resources

Official GRE Super Power Pack
ETSFree
Includes 2 real, full-length practice tests. Free POWERPREP online practice tests also available.
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POWERPREP Online (GRE)
ETSFree
Two free full-length practice tests. Additional paid POWERPREP Plus tests available ($39.95 each).
View
The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test
ETSFree
Includes 8 full-length practice tests plus access to online tests.
View
Praxis Interactive Practice Tests
ETSFree
Official interactive practice available per test title at ets.org/praxis.
View

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I use this practice test most effectively?

Take it under timed conditions (approximately 1 minute and 42 seconds per question) in a quiet environment. After completing, review every question-both correct and incorrect-to understand the reasoning. Use the results to identify which topic areas need the most review, then revisit those topics in your textbooks or notes before taking another practice test.

Is this practice test harder or easier than the actual GRE Physics Subject Test?

This practice test is designed to match the official exam in difficulty and topic distribution. However, no practice test can perfectly replicate the exact experience. The official test may include some questions that are slightly more nuanced or require more advanced recall. Use this test as a benchmark, but expect the real exam to feel similar in overall challenge.

What if I haven't taken courses in all the specialized topics like nuclear or solid state physics?

That is common. The official test includes a small percentage of questions from specialized topics, so you do not need to master them. Focus on the core areas-Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, and Thermodynamics-which make up the majority of the test. For specialized topics, review the most fundamental concepts and formulas.

How much time should I spend on each question?

Aim for an average of about 1 minute and 40 seconds per question. If a question stumps you, mark it and move on. It is better to answer all questions with some guesses than to run out of time. There is no penalty for guessing on the actual GRE Subject Test, so practice the same strategy here.

Should I memorize formulas for this test?

Yes, but focus on understanding the relationships behind the formulas. The test often requires you to combine multiple concepts or apply a formula in a non-standard way. Memorize key equations from each topic area, but practice using them in context rather than in isolation.