The GRE Psychology Test as an unobstrusive measure of motivation

Abstract

The Psychology Achievement Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE-P) and failure to prepare for it may serve as an unobstrusive measure of motivation necessary for success in graduate school whether or not the content of the test taps abilities necessary for success. To test this hypothesis, records of 31 male graduate psychology students were obtained. Predictors included GRE-P, GRE Verbal and Quantitative Aptitude Test, Miller Analogies Test (MAT), undergraduate overall and undergraduate psychology GPA, and number of psychology courses taken prior to the GRE. Criteria included percentage of "A" grades in graduate school and graduation vs. termination. Only GRE-P and a difference score consisting of GRE-P minus MAT showed significant validity against the criteria. The results were interpreted as supporting the hypothesis. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)