GRE Exam: Know Dates, Schedule, Syllabus & Pattern

Excel at the GRE Exam 2024: Know Dates, Schedule & Pattern

Prepare for the GRE exam 2024 with our comprehensive guide covering test dates, registration, and exam pattern. Learn about GRE test types, costs, and strategies to excel. Explore preparation tips and resources to ensure you are ready for test day and unlock opportunities for graduate studies worldwide.

If you’re aiming to take the GRE exam in 2024, you’re on the right path to opening doors to graduate schools worldwide. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the GRE exam, including important dates, schedule, pattern, and everything else you need to know. Let's dive into the essentials and ensure you're fully prepared for the test day.

This article answers the following questions:

  1. What is the GRE exam?
  2. What are the types of GRE tests?
  3. What is the structure and timing of the GRE General Test?
  4. What is the GRE exam pattern?
  5. What is the GRE exam dates for 2024?
  6. How do I register for the GRE exam?
  7. What are the fees for the GRE exam?
  8. What is the eligibility for the GRE exam?
  9. What is the validity of GRE scores?
  10. What is the GRE exam used for?
  11. How do I prepare for the GRE exam?
  12. What is the total testing time for the GRE General Test?
  13. Where can I find test preparation materials for the GRE?

What is the GRE Exam?

The GRE exam, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools in the United States and other countries. It measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. The GRE exam is designed to assess your readiness for graduate-level work. In a nutshell, if you are planning to go to graduate, business, or law school, then you need to take the GRE test.  

Types of GRE Tests

There are two types of GRE tests administered:

GRE General Test

The GRE General Test evaluates candidates on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, skills that are essential for success in graduate programs. It is widely accepted by universities for various disciplines. This test measures your ability to think critically, analyze written material, solve quantitative problems, and articulate complex ideas effectively.

GRE Subject Tests

The GRE Subject Tests focus on specific fields such as Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. These subject-specific tests are intended for students who have an extensive background in one of these areas and want to highlight their expertise to prospective graduate programs. Taking a GRE Subject Test can showcase your in-depth knowledge and strengthen your application to specialized programs.

GRE Exam Dates for 2024

The GRE exam is available throughout the year, offering flexibility in choosing a date that fits your schedule. For 2024, you can select test dates from January to December. It's important to book your test date as early as possible because popular dates can fill up quickly. Here is an image of the test date selection screen.

GRE Exam dates
  • GRE General Test: Available year-round, usually on a rolling basis. You can take it at home or at a test center.
  • GRE Subject Tests: Offered three times a year in September, October, and April.

Test Administration

Online Test Administration

The GRE can be taken online from home, offering flexibility and convenience. However, you must meet technical requirements and follow strict proctoring protocols, such as identity verification and continuous monitoring by a live proctor or invigilator, to ensure test security and fairness.

Test Center Administration

Alternatively, the GRE can also be taken at authorized test centers, availableworldwide. These centers provide a controlled environment with all necessary equipment and supervision. The test center administration follows standardized procedures to ensure a consistent and secure testing experience for all candidates.

GRE Exam Registration

Creating an ETS Account

First, you will need to create an ETS Account at www.ets.org/mygre to do the following:

  • Register for a GRE test
  • Sign up for the free GRE® Search Service
  • Purchase test preparation materials
  • View, change or cancel your registration
  • View your scores
  • Order Additional Score Reports
  • Access the free GRE Diagnostic Service

How to Apply for the GRE Exam

Registering for the GRE exam is straightforward. Follow these steps:

Create an ETS Account: Go to the ETS website and sign up for an account.

Sign In for Test Takers (ets.org)

Select Your Test Date and Center: Choose a convenient date and location for the test.

Fill in Your Details: Complete the registration form with your personal information.

Pay the Exam Fee: Pay the registration fee to confirm your booking.

You can save up to 15% on the GRE exam fee with EduVouchers exclusive GRE Discount Code. Don't miss out on the big savings!

Fees for GRE Exam

The GRE exam cost varies by country. As of 2024, the standard test fee is $220 in most locations. Additional fees may apply for special services like late registration or rescheduling. Check the ETS website, GRE General Test Fees (ets.org), for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees for the GRE exam.

LOCATION 

FEE 

INDIA 

22550/- 

China 

$231.30 

Other parts of the world 

$220 

Fees are stated in U.S. dollars, effective July 1, 2024, and are subject to change without notice.

If you're seeking GRE discounts, you might want to explore our comprehensive guide on how to get a GRE voucher.

GRE General Test Pattern and Timing

The GRE General Test, administered beginning on September 22, 2023, is composed of three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Here is a detailed breakdown of each section and their respective timings:

  • Analytical Writing:
  • One section with one timed writing task
  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Verbal Reasoning:
  • One 18-minute section with 12 questions
  • One 23-minute section with 15 questions
  • Quantitative Reasoning:
  • One 21-minute section with 12 questions
  • One 26-minute section with 15 questions

The total testing time for the GRE General Test is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes.

Further Reading: GRE Syllabus

Purpose and Validity of the GRE Exam 

What is the Purpose of the GRE Exam?

The GRE exam is used by graduate and business schools to assess the qualifications of applicants for advanced study. It provides a common measure for comparing candidates' academic abilities, helping admissions committees make informed decisions.

GRE Validity

Your GRE exam scores are valid for five years from the test date. This allows you some flexibility in your application timeline.  For example, if you take the test in 2024, your scores will be valid until 2029.

For information related to cancelation, refund, retest, ID requirements, score reports, and refund policies you can check the latest ETS bulletin - gre-info-bulletin-2024-25.pdf (ets.org)

Need vouchers for multiple exams? Visit EduVouchers for unbeatable discounts on TOEFL, PTE, and more

Continue Reading

Duolingo English Test

Master the Duolingo English Test: Comprehensive G...

Discover how to master the Duolingo English Test with our comprehensive guide. Learn about test structure, question types, and effective tips for success. Ensure your English proficiency shines wit...
Read Blog
PTE preparation resources

Top 5 PTE Preparation Resources to Maximize Your ...

Discover the top 5 PTE preparation resources to boost your score, featuring practice tests, expert tips, and strategies for tackling the exam's four key sections: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Li...
Read Blog