GRE Exam: Complete Overview for 2025 Applicants

Are you planning to pursue graduate studies abroad in 2025?  Then the GRE exam is a crucial step in your academic journey. Recognized by thousands of universities worldwide, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) helps assess your readiness for graduate-level coursework. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore all aspects of the GRE, from its types and structure to registration, fees, preparation strategies, and more.

What is GRE?

The GRE exam full form is the Graduate Record Examination. It is a standardized test conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is widely accepted for admission into graduate and professional programs, including business and law schools. The test evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills.

Importance of GRE for Graduate Studies Abroad

The GRE exam is for those aspiring to pursue master's, MBA, JD, or PhD programs primarily in the United States, Canada, and several European countries. Many top-ranked universities require or accept GRE scores as part of their admission process. A good GRE exam score can enhance your profile, increase scholarship opportunities, and even compensate for a lower GPA.

• Accepted by 1,300+ business schools, including top MBA programs.
  
  
• Required or accepted for graduate studies in many global universities.
  
  
• Can improve chances for scholarships and assistantships.
  
  
• Test fee in India is approximately ₹22,500 for the General Test.
  
  
• GRE Subject Test costs approximately ₹14,500.
  
  
• Available in 47 Indian cities, making it highly accessible.
  
  
• Recognized by programs in STEM, business, law, and social sciences.

Who Should Take the GRE?

Anyone aiming for postgraduate studies in engineering, business, arts, sciences, or law can apply for GRE exam. It is particularly useful for:

• Recent graduates planning further education.
  
  
• Working professionals seeking a career boost through an international degree.
  
  
• Applicants to competitive programs needing to stand out with high scores.

GRE Exam Types

GRE General Test

The GRE General Test assesses your overall academic readiness. It focuses on:

• Verbal Reasoning
  
  
• Quantitative Reasoning
  
  
• Analytical Writing

GRE Subject Tests

The GRE Subject Tests evaluate your knowledge in specific areas. Available subjects:

• Physics
  
  
• Chemistry
  
  
• Psychology
  
  
• Mathematics

These are ideal if you're applying to programs that demand subject-specific expertise.

GRE Exam Eligibility Criteria

Educational Requirements

There are no strict educational prerequisites, but a bachelor's degree is generally expected by universities.

Age Limitations

There is no age limit for GRE exam, making it accessible to both fresh graduates and experienced professionals.

Identification Requirements

You need a valid, government-issued ID (such as a passport) matching the name used during registration.

GRE Registration Process

Step-by-Step Guide to Register for GRE

1. Visit the official ETS GRE website.
   
   
2. Create or log in to your ETS account.
   
   
3. Choose the type of test (General or Subject).
   
   
4. Select the test date and center.
   
   
5. Fill in personal and academic details.
   
   
6. Pay the registration fee.

GRE Booking Tips

• Book early to get your preferred date and location.
  
  
• Review available slots at least 2-3 months in advance.

Registration Fees and Accepted Payment Methods

Payment Methods: Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, e-checks, and money orders.

GRE Exam Dates and Test Centers

Understanding the rules and policies for the GRE exam is essential to ensure a smooth test-day experience and to avoid any disqualifications or delays. Below are the important guidelines every test taker should be aware of:

Overview of GRE Test Dates

• GRE General Test: Available year-round at Prometric centers and selected home testing dates.

• GRE Subject Test: Offered three times a year (April, September, October).

GRE Test Centers and Availability

There are hundreds of test centers worldwide, including major cities across India like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

How to Choose the Best GRE Test Date

• Consider university application deadlines.
  
  
• Choose a date that allows at least 2-3 months for preparation.

Also Read: GRE Exam Dates & Test Centres Complete List

Rescheduling or Cancelling the GRE Exam

• Can be done up to 4 days before the test date.
  
  
• Rescheduling fee: $50 OR ₹4,259
  
  
• Cancellation refund: 50% of original fee

GRE Exam Retake Policy

• Retake Limit: You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period.
  
  
• Subject Tests: These can be taken as often as offered, which is typically three times per year.

GRE Exam Validity

• The GRE exam score validity is 5 years from the test date. Ensure your scores are still valid when applying to universities.

GRE Exam Pattern

Structure of the GRE General Test

Total Duration: Approximately 1 hour 58 minutes (new pattern 2024 onwards).

Format of GRE Subject Tests

Each subject test consists of multiple-choice questions relevant to the field, lasting about 2 hours and 50 minutes.

Continue Reading: GRE Exam Pattern Guide

GRE Exam Syllabus

GRE General Test

• Verbal Reasoning: Reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence.
  
  
• Quantitative Reasoning: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data interpretation.
  
  
• Analytical Writing:Analyze an argument.

GRE Subject Tests

Each has a specific syllabus. For example:

• GRE Physics: Mechanics, electricity, magnetism, quantum physics.
  
  
• GRE Psychology: Biological, cognitive, developmental, and clinical psychology.

Continue Reading: GRE Syllabus Indepth Guide

GRE Exam Preparation

How to Start Preparing for GRE

Starting your GRE preparation journey can feel overwhelming, but with a step-by-step approach, it becomes much more manageable. Here's how to begin:

1. Understand the GRE Exam Structure and Syllabus

Before diving into preparation, it's crucial to know what you're up against. The GRE General Test is divided into three major sections:

• Verbal Reasoning
  
  
• Quantitative Reasoning
  
  
• Analytical Writing

Each section tests specific skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical writing. Familiarize yourself with the types of questions in each section, the number of questions, and the time limits. Also, review the GRE syllabus thoroughly to understand the topics that are commonly tested, such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, and argument analysis.

2. Take a GRE Practice Exam to Evaluate Your Starting Level

A diagnostic test is your first real step. Taking a full-length practice test under timed conditions will help you:

• Understand the test format.
  
  
• Get a feel for the pressure of time constraints.
  
  
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

This baseline score will act as a benchmark for future progress and help you tailor your study plan effectively.

3. Set Realistic Goals and Make a Study Schedule

Once you know where you stand, set a target GRE score based on the requirements of the graduate programs you're interested in. Then, design a study plan that fits your lifestyle and availability. Break your preparation into weekly goals, focusing more time on weaker areas. A typical study plan spans 2 to 3 months, but it varies based on your current level and desired score.

Include time for:

• Concept review
  
  
• Practice questions
  
  
• Mock tests
  
  
• Revision and error analysis

Best GRE Preparation Books and Resources

• ETS Official Guide to the GRE
• Manhattan Prep GRE Series
• Barron's GRE
• Kaplan GRE Prep

GRE Preparation Online

• EduVouchers
• Magoosh
• Kaplan Live Online
• Princeton Review
• ETS PowerPrep

Time Management Tips for GRE Preparation

• Devote 2–3 hours daily for 2–3 months.
  
  
• Use timers during practice.
  
  
• Focus on weak areas after mock tests.

GRE Exam Scoring

How GRE Scores Are Calculated

Understanding GRE Score Reports

• Percentile ranking included.
  
  
• Shows how your score compares with other test takers.

Also Read: GRE Exam Score Guide

Average GRE Scores for Popular Universities

Also Read: GRE Accepting Countries & Universities

GRE Results and Score Reporting

How to Check GRE Scores

• Log into your ETS account 8–10 days after the test.

Score Validity and Reporting to Universities

• GRE exam validity: 5 years
  
  
• You can send scores to 4 universities for free on test day.

Timeline for Receiving Scores

• Unofficial scores (Verbal & Quant) appear immediately after test.
• Official scores available within 10–15 days.

GRE Fees and Discounts

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is administered by ETS and has a standard registration fee, with some variation based on the test taker's location. The fee for Indian students is 22500/-. The fee in India includes all taxes and is applicable for both the test center and at-home versions.

GRE General Test Fees by Country (2025)

GRE Discount Coupons and Vouchers

The GRE exam can be a costly affair, especially for international students. However, many students can save money on GRE registration by using discount vouchers and promo codes.

What Are GRE Discount Coupons?

GRE coupon codes are special vouchers provided by ETS or authorized partners that reduce the cost of registration. These are typically available through:

• University programs
  
  
• Test prep companies
  
  
• Scholarship providers
  
  
• Authorized platforms like EduVouchers

You can get official ETS GRE voucher codes or GRE promotion codes from:

• EduVouchers – a verified platform offering GRE vouchers at a discount.
  
  
• ETS-sponsored programs for financially underprivileged students.
  
  
• College or university academic departments.

How to Use a GRE Promo Code

• Visit the ETS GRE registration page.
  
  
• On the payment page, look for the option to “Apply Voucher / Promo Code.”
  
  
• Enter the valid GRE discount code.
  
  
• The discounted amount will be applied before payment.

Also Read: How to Buy GRE Exam Vouchers

Additional GRE-Related Fees in India

You can pay the GRE fees in India using the following methods:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, Rupay, and American Express
  
  
• UPI & Digital Wallets: Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, Amazon Pay, WhatsApp, MobiKwik, Ola Money, FreeCharge, Airtel Money, JioMoney, and all BHIM UPI-enabled banking apps
  
  
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Supported for Visa and MasterCard cards issued outside India 

GRE vs. Other Exams

When to Choose GRE Over Other Tests

• Choose GRE if you're applying to both business and graduate programs.|
  
  
• Ideal if you're stronger in analytical and reasoning skills.

Conclusion

The GRE exam is a powerful tool that opens doors to global education opportunities. Whether you’re targeting top-tier universities or seeking scholarships, a solid GRE exam score can significantly boost your application. Understanding the types of GRE exam, exam structure, preparation strategies, and key timelines can streamline your journey.

Start your GRE preparation online today and book your test in advance to stay ahead. With the right resources and dedication, success in the graduate record exam is within your reach!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is the GRE exam about?

A. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test required for admission into many graduate schools, especially in the U.S. and Canada. It assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

Q. What is a 90% GRE score?

A. A 90th percentile GRE score means you scored higher than 90% of test-takers. This typically corresponds to around: Verbal: 162+ Quant: 166+ Total Score: 328+ (combined verbal and quant)

Q. Is it better to take GRE or IELTS?

A. It depends on your goals:

GRE is required for graduate programs, especially for STEM, business, or research fields.

IELTS is a language proficiency test, required for university admissions and visas in English-speaking countries.
You might need both if applying for graduate studies abroad.

Q. Is GRE MCQ based?

A. Yes, most of the GRE is multiple-choice, except for:

Analytical Writing: 2 essay tasks

Some Quant questions require entering a numeric answer.

Q. What is the highest GRE score?

A. The maximum scores are:

Verbal Reasoning: 170

Quantitative Reasoning: 170

Analytical Writing: 6.0

So, the highest total GRE score is 340.

Q. Is there negative marking in GRE?

A. No, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers on the GRE. It's a good idea to attempt all questions.

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