GRE Exam Requirements and Eligibility: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
- MBA Entrance Exam Expert
- Oct 30
- 17 min read
The Graduate Record Examination maintains remarkably inclusive eligibility criteria, reflecting its role as a global gateway to graduate education. After guiding thousands of students through the registration process, I can confidently say that the GRE's accessibility represents one of its greatest strengths for prospective graduate students worldwide.
Table of Contents
Basic Eligibility Criteria for GRE
The Graduate Record Examination maintains remarkably inclusive eligibility criteria, reflecting its role as a global gateway to graduate education. After guiding thousands of students through the registration process, I can confidently say that the GRE's accessibility represents one of its greatest strengths for prospective graduate students worldwide.
The fundamental principle underlying GRE eligibility is simple: there are no formal educational prerequisites, age restrictions, or citizenship requirements. This open-access approach ensures that the test serves its primary purpose—providing graduate programs with standardized assessment data regardless of applicant background.
Core Eligibility Principles
Universal Access: The Educational Testing Service (ETS) designed the GRE to accommodate diverse educational backgrounds, career stages, and life circumstances. This inclusivity reflects modern graduate education's recognition that excellent candidates come from varied paths.
Self-Determination: Individuals decide their own readiness to take the GRE based on their academic goals and preparation level. This approach empowers test-takers to control their graduate school application timelines.
Equal Opportunity: The absence of formal prerequisites ensures that socioeconomic background, educational access, or geographic location don't create barriers to graduate school aspiration.
Practical Implications
Career Changers: Professionals seeking to transition into new fields can take the GRE regardless of their previous educational or professional background. I've successfully guided clients from business careers into psychology PhD programs and artists into data science masters programs.
Non-Traditional Students: Adults returning to education after extended career breaks face no eligibility barriers based on time away from formal education. Many of my most successful clients completed undergraduate degrees decades before pursuing graduate study.
International Flexibility: Students from any country can register for the GRE, making it truly global in scope. The test serves applicants from over 190 countries annually.
Who Should Consider Taking the GRE
While eligibility is universal, strategic timing considerations help optimize the test's value:
Undergraduate Students: Junior and senior year represent optimal timing for most students, balancing academic preparation with application timeline needs.
Recent Graduates: Taking the GRE within 1-2 years of undergraduate completion leverages fresh academic skills while providing flexibility for various application cycles.
Working Professionals: Those with established careers can take the GRE at any point when considering graduate education, regardless of years in the workforce.
Career Explorers: Individuals uncertain about specific graduate programs can take the GRE to keep multiple educational pathways open simultaneously.
Age Requirements and Restrictions
One of the most frequently asked questions I receive concerns age limitations for GRE registration. The answer consistently surprises people with its simplicity and inclusiveness.
No Minimum Age Requirement
Policy Overview: The GRE has no official minimum age requirement, theoretically allowing exceptionally gifted young students to take the test. However, practical considerations make this scenario uncommon.
Practical Considerations:
Cognitive Development: The GRE assesses analytical thinking skills typically developed through late adolescence and early adulthood
Academic Preparation: Test content assumes exposure to concepts typically covered in undergraduate coursework
Graduate Program Requirements: Most graduate programs require completed bachelor's degrees or equivalent preparation
Exceptional Cases: Occasionally, extraordinarily gifted students take the GRE during high school or early undergraduate years. These situations require careful consultation with target graduate programs regarding admission policies.
No Maximum Age Restriction
Lifelong Learning Support: The absence of age restrictions reflects ETS's commitment to supporting lifelong learning and career development at any stage.
Success Stories: I've worked with clients ranging from recent college graduates to professionals in their 60s and 70s pursuing graduate degrees. Age has never proven a barrier to GRE success or graduate school admission.
Practical Advantages for Mature Students:
Life Experience: Professional experience often provides valuable context for analytical reasoning questions
Motivation Clarity: Older students typically have clearer educational goals and stronger intrinsic motivation
Study Discipline: Professional experience often translates to effective study habits and time management
Special Considerations by Age Group
Traditional College Students (Ages 18-25):
Timing Optimization: Junior or senior year provides optimal balance of academic preparation and application timeline flexibility
Multiple Attempts: Young students have more flexibility for retakes if needed
Career Exploration: Early GRE completion allows exploration of various graduate programs
Young Professionals (Ages 25-35):
Career Integration: Must balance test preparation with professional responsibilities
Motivation Clarity: Often have clearer career goals than traditional students
Financial Considerations: May need to balance test costs with other adult financial responsibilities
Mid-Career Professionals (Ages 35-50):
Time Management: Must integrate preparation with family and career obligations
Study Approach: May benefit from structured preparation programs rather than self-study
Technology Adaptation: May need additional time adapting to computer-based testing format
Senior Professionals (Ages 50+):
Accommodation Needs: May benefit from accessibility accommodations for vision or physical considerations
Learning Style Adaptation: May need to adjust to current educational technology and testing formats
Motivation Advantages: Often have exceptional clarity of purpose and commitment to academic goals
Educational Prerequisites and Background
Understanding the educational context for GRE success helps students make informed decisions about timing and preparation strategies.
No Formal Educational Requirements
Open Access Policy: The GRE requires no specific degree completion, coursework, or educational credentials for registration. This policy ensures accessibility for diverse educational backgrounds.
Graduate Program Requirements: While the GRE itself has no educational prerequisites, graduate programs typically require completed bachelor's degrees or equivalent preparation. The distinction is crucial for planning purposes.
Recommended Educational Preparation
Mathematical Foundation:
High School Mathematics: Solid understanding of algebra, geometry, and basic statistics
College-Level Mathematics: Many students benefit from completing college algebra and introductory statistics
STEM Preparation: Students targeting quantitative fields should complete calculus and advanced mathematics
Writing and Analytical Skills:
College Composition: Strong foundation in academic writing and critical analysis
Reading Experience: Extensive exposure to academic and intellectual texts across disciplines
Critical Thinking: Experience with argument analysis and logical reasoning
General Academic Preparation:
Broad Liberal Arts Foundation: Exposure to diverse academic disciplines and intellectual traditions
Research Experience: Familiarity with academic research methods and scholarly communication
Intellectual Curiosity: Demonstrated interest in learning and intellectual growth
Educational Background Optimization Strategies
Recent High School Graduates: Should typically complete at least two years of college-level coursework before taking the GRE. This preparation ensures adequate academic maturity and subject knowledge.
Community College Students: Can successfully take the GRE, often bringing strong motivation and clear career goals. Many of my community college clients have achieved excellent scores and gained admission to competitive graduate programs.
International Students: May need additional English language preparation and familiarity with American educational expectations. The combination of TOEFL/IELTS and GRE preparation often proves optimal.
Non-Traditional Educational Backgrounds: Students with alternative educational experiences (online degrees, professional certifications, military training) can successfully take the GRE with appropriate preparation.
Subject-Specific Preparation Considerations
STEM Fields:
Mathematics Proficiency: Strong algebra, geometry, and statistical reasoning abilities
Scientific Method: Understanding of research design and data analysis
Quantitative Problem-Solving: Experience with mathematical modeling and analytical thinking
Humanities:
Reading Comprehension: Extensive experience with complex academic texts
Writing Proficiency: Strong academic writing and argument development skills
Cultural Knowledge: Broad familiarity with intellectual history and cultural contexts
Social Sciences:
Research Methods: Understanding of both quantitative and qualitative research approaches
Statistical Literacy: Basic understanding of statistical concepts and interpretation
Critical Analysis: Ability to evaluate arguments and evidence systematically
Documentation Requirements for Registration
Successful GRE registration requires careful attention to documentation requirements, which vary based on testing location and personal circumstances.
Primary Identification Requirements
Government-Issued Photo ID: All test-takers must present valid, government-issued photo identification that matches their registration information exactly.
Acceptable Forms of ID:
Driver's License: Most common form of identification for domestic test-takers
Passport: Required for international students and recommended for all test-takers
State-Issued ID Card: Acceptable alternative to driver's license
Military ID: Valid for active duty and veteran test-takers
ID Verification Criteria:
Current and Valid: Must not be expired on test day
Photo Quality: Clear, recognizable photograph that matches current appearance
Name Match: Must exactly match name used during registration
Government Seal: Must display official government seal or designation
Special Documentation Situations
Name Discrepancies: Any difference between registration name and ID name requires advance coordination with ETS customer service. Common issues include:
Recent Marriage: Legal name changes require supporting documentation
Preferred Names: Must register using legal name as it appears on official documents
International Characters: Names with accents or non-Latin characters require careful registration attention
Expired Documentation:
Renewal Timeline: Allow adequate time for document renewal before test date
Temporary Documents: Temporary licenses or ID cards may not be acceptable
Backup Documentation: Consider obtaining passport as backup identification
International Student Documentation
Passport Requirements: International students should always use passports for registration and testing to ensure consistency across all educational applications.
Embassy/Consulate Considerations:
Document Authenticity: Ensure all documentation meets official government standards
Translation Needs: Documents in non-English languages may require official translation
Cultural Naming Conventions: Understand how different naming traditions interact with US testing requirements
Visa Status Considerations: While visa status doesn't affect GRE eligibility, students should ensure their documentation supports their intended graduate school applications.
Accessibility Documentation
Accommodation Requests: Students requiring testing accommodations must submit additional documentation during registration.
Medical Documentation:
Professional Evaluation: Documentation from qualified healthcare professionals
Specific Needs: Clear description of required accommodations and justification
Recent Assessment: Documentation typically must be current (within 3 years)
Processing Timeline: Accommodation requests require additional processing time, typically 6-8 weeks before desired test date.
International Student Eligibility
International students represent approximately 25% of GRE test-takers, reflecting the exam's crucial role in global graduate education access.
Universal International Eligibility
Global Access: Students from any country can register for and take the GRE, subject only to local testing center availability and political restrictions.
No Citizenship Requirements: US citizenship or permanent residence status is not required for GRE registration or testing.
Equal Treatment: International and domestic test-takers receive identical test content, scoring, and score reporting services.
Country-Specific Considerations
Testing Center Availability:
Major Cities: Most countries with significant student populations have testing centers in major metropolitan areas
Regional Limitations: Some countries may have limited testing locations, requiring travel for test access
Political Restrictions: Occasionally, political situations may temporarily limit testing availability in specific regions
Cultural and Educational Adaptations:
Testing Format: International students may need additional preparation for computer-based testing if unfamiliar with the format
Question Styles: American-style multiple choice questions may require specific preparation for optimal performance
Time Management: Cultural differences in educational pacing may affect optimal test strategy
Language Considerations
English Proficiency: While the GRE has no English proficiency prerequisites, strong English skills are essential for success, particularly on Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections.
Preparation Strategies:
Vocabulary Development: Systematic building of academic English vocabulary
Reading Practice: Extensive exposure to academic English texts across disciplines
Writing Practice: Development of American academic writing conventions and styles
Complementary Testing: Most graduate programs require both GRE scores and English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS) from international applicants.
Regional Testing Patterns
East Asia:
High Participation: China, South Korea, and India represent the largest international test-taking populations
Quantitative Strength: Students often excel in Quantitative Reasoning sections
Verbal Preparation: May require additional focus on Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing
Europe:
English Advantage: Students from English-speaking countries or strong English education systems often perform well across all sections
Educational Alignment: European educational systems often align well with GRE analytical thinking requirements
Latin America:
Growing Participation: Increasing numbers of students from Mexico, Brazil, and other Latin American countries
English Development: Often combines GRE preparation with intensive English language development
Middle East and Africa:
Variable Access: Testing center availability varies significantly across regions
Educational Diversity: Wide range of educational background preparation levels
Special Accommodations and Accessibility
The ETS demonstrates strong commitment to accessibility by providing comprehensive accommodations for test takers with documented disabilities.
Types of Available Accommodations
Extended Testing Time:
Standard Extensions: 50% additional time most common accommodation
Flexible Extensions: Up to 100% additional time for specific documented needs
Section-Specific: Different timing accommodations for different test sections
Physical Accommodations:
Large Print Materials: For test-takers with visual impairments
Screen Magnification: Computer-based accommodations for visual needs
Alternative Seating: Ergonomic or accessibility-focused seating arrangements
Wheelchair Accessibility: Ensuring full access to testing facilities
Sensory Accommodations:
Screen Readers: For test-takers with blindness or severe visual impairment
Audio Accommodations: For students with hearing impairments
Alternative Format Materials: Braille or other specialized formats when needed
Cognitive and Learning Accommodations:
ADHD Support: Extended time and alternative testing environments
Learning Disabilities: Various accommodations based on specific documented needs
Memory Support: Accommodations for documented memory impairments
Documentation Requirements for Accommodations
Professional Evaluation:
Qualified Evaluators: Licensed psychologists, physicians, or other qualified professionals
Comprehensive Assessment: Detailed evaluation of functional limitations and educational impact
Recent Documentation: Typically within 3 years of test date
Specific Documentation Elements:
Diagnostic Information: Clear description of diagnosed condition and its educational impact
Functional Limitations: Specific description of how condition affects test-taking ability
Accommodation Recommendations: Professional recommendations for specific accommodations
Educational History: Documentation of previous accommodations and their effectiveness
Application Process and Timeline
Advanced Planning:
Application Deadline: Submit accommodation requests at least 6-8 weeks before desired test date
Documentation Review: ETS requires time to review and approve accommodation requests
Appeal Process: Additional time needed if initial request requires modification or appeal
Registration Integration:
Special Registration: Accommodation requests integrate with standard registration process
Testing Center Coordination: ETS coordinates with testing centers to ensure accommodation availability
Scheduling Flexibility: May require flexibility in test date and location selection
Success Strategies for Accommodated Testing
Preparation Adaptation:
Practice with Accommodations: Practice tests should simulate actual testing accommodations
Timing Strategies: Develop pacing strategies appropriate for extended time allocations
Technology Familiarity: Practice with any assistive technology used during actual testing
Day-of-Test Considerations:
Early Arrival: Plan for additional check-in time and accommodation setup
Communication: Clear communication with testing center staff about accommodation needs
Backup Plans: Prepare contingency strategies for any technical or accommodation issues
Registration Process Step-by-Step
Navigating GRE registration efficiently requires understanding the complete process and potential complications that may arise.
Online Registration Through ETS Account
Account Creation:
1. Visit Official ETS Website: Navigate to www.ets.org/gre
2. Create Account: Provide accurate personal information that matches identification documents
3. Profile Completion: Complete all required demographic and educational background information
4. Email Verification: Confirm email address through verification process
Test Selection and Scheduling:
1. Test Type Selection: Choose between computer-delivered or paper-delivered GRE (where available)
2. Location Selection: Search for convenient testing centers based on geographic preferences
3. Date Selection: Choose from available test dates within desired timeframe
4. Time Slot Selection: Select specific testing time that aligns with personal preferences
Payment Processing and Confirmation
Fee Payment:
Payment Methods: Credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, or vouchers accepted
International Payments: International credit cards accepted with currency conversion
Payment Security: Secure processing through encrypted ETS payment systems
Registration Confirmation:
Confirmation Email: Immediate email confirmation with test details and important information
Registration Number: Unique identifier for all future communication with ETS
Voucher Generation: Downloadable admission ticket for test day
Pre-Test Preparation and Logistics
Documentation Verification:
ID Check: Verify that identification meets all ETS requirements
Information Accuracy: Ensure all registration information exactly matches identification documents
Address Verification: Confirm score reporting addresses and recipient codes
Test Day Preparation:
Location Familiarization: Research testing center location and parking availability
Timing Considerations: Plan arrival time accounting for check-in procedures
Permitted Items: Review list of allowed and prohibited items for test day
Score Reporting Setup
Free Score Reports:
Institution Selection: Choose up to four institutions to receive free score reports
Code Verification: Verify correct institution codes and department specifications
Timing Considerations: Understand score reporting timeline and deadlines
Additional Score Reports:
Future Needs: Consider likely future score reporting needs
Cost Considerations: Additional reports cost $27 each
Timeline Planning: Factor score reporting time into application timeline planning
Payment Methods and Fee Structure
Understanding GRE costs and payment options helps students plan financially for their graduate school preparation.
Current Fee Structure (2025)
Standard GRE General Test:
United States: $220 USD
All Other Locations: $220 USD (local currency equivalent)
Subject Tests: $150 USD (where available)
Additional Services:
Rescheduling Fee: $50 USD (up to 4 days before test date)
Additional Score Reports: $27 USD per recipient
Score Review Services: Various fees for score verification services
Accepted Payment Methods
Online Payment Options:
Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover
Debit Cards: Bank-issued debit cards with major card network logos
PayPal: Convenient alternative payment method
ETS Vouchers: Prepaid vouchers available through authorized distributors
International Payment Considerations:
Currency Conversion: Automatic conversion to USD for international payments
Bank Fees: International transaction fees may apply depending on payment method
Payment Security: All transactions processed through secure, encrypted systems
Financial Assistance and Fee Reduction
Fee Reduction Program:
Eligibility: Available for financially disadvantaged test-takers in United States
Reduction Amount: 50% reduction in test fee
Application Process: Requires documentation of financial need
Annual Limit: One fee reduction per test type per year
Institutional Vouchers:
University Programs: Some colleges provide GRE vouchers for students
Scholarship Programs: External organizations may provide testing support
Employer Benefits: Some employers reimburse professional development testing costs
Payment Timeline and Policies
Registration Payment:
Immediate Payment: Full payment required at time of registration
Payment Confirmation: Immediate confirmation of successful payment processing
Refund Policies: Limited refund availability under specific circumstances
Cancellation and Refund Policies:
Full Refund: Available if cancelled more than 10 days before test date, minus $50 fee
Partial Refund: 50% refund available if cancelled 4-10 days before test date
No Refund: No refund available for cancellations within 4 days of test date
Scheduling and Rescheduling Policies
Effective scheduling requires understanding availability patterns and flexibility options for optimal test timing.
Test Date Availability
Year-Round Testing:
Computer-Delivered Tests: Available continuously throughout the year
Appointment Frequency: Multiple test dates available daily at most testing centers
Seasonal Variations: Higher demand during peak application seasons (fall/winter)
Geographic Considerations:
Urban Centers: More frequent testing opportunities in major metropolitan areas
Rural Areas: May have limited testing center options requiring advance planning
International Locations: Availability varies significantly by country and region
Scheduling Strategy Recommendations
Optimal Timing Considerations:
Application Deadlines: Schedule tests allowing adequate time for score reporting
Retake Possibilities: Allow time for potential retakes while meeting application deadlines
Personal Preparation: Align test dates with peak preparation readiness
Life Circumstances: Consider work, school, and personal commitments
Peak Season Planning:
High Demand Periods: October through January see highest registration volume
Early Registration: Book desired dates 2-3 months in advance during peak seasons
Flexibility Benefits: Weekday testing often has better availability than weekends
Rescheduling Procedures and Policies
Rescheduling Timeline:
Advance Notice: Changes allowed up to 4 days before scheduled test date
Fee Structure: $50 rescheduling fee applies to all changes
Availability Constraints: Subject to availability at desired new date and location
Emergency Rescheduling:
Medical Emergencies: May qualify for fee waiver with appropriate documentation
Natural Disasters: ETS provides accommodations for weather or disaster-related issues
Technical Problems: Testing center issues may result in free rescheduling opportunities
Cancellation Policies
Voluntary Cancellation:
Advance Cancellation: More than 10 days before test date: full refund minus $50 fee
Short Notice Cancellation: 4-10 days before test date: 50% refund
Last-Minute Cancellation: Within 4 days: no refund available
Involuntary Cancellation:
Testing Center Issues: Full refund or free rescheduling for ETS-caused cancellations
Weather Events: Accommodations provided for severe weather or natural disasters
Health Department Restrictions: Special policies during public health emergencies
Retake Policies and Limitations
Understanding retake policies helps students plan comprehensive test strategies and score improvement approaches.
Frequency and Timing Restrictions
21-Day Rule:
Minimum Interval: Must wait 21 calendar days between test attempts
Calculation Method: Counting begins the day after previous test date
No Exceptions: Rule applies regardless of circumstances or emergency situations
Annual Limitations:
Maximum Attempts: Five test attempts per continuous rolling 12-month period
Rolling Calendar: 12-month period calculated from first test date in sequence
Reset Timing: Counter resets 12 months after earliest test in sequence
Score Reporting and Choice
All Scores Reporting:
Historical Policy: Until 2012, all test scores were automatically reported
Current Flexibility: Test-takers can choose which scores to send to institutions
Strategic Advantages: Allows for multiple attempts without penalty
ScoreSelect Options:
Most Recent: Send only scores from most recent test date
All Scores: Send scores from all test dates within five-year validity period
Any Scores: Send scores from any specific test dates within validity period
Strategic Retake Planning
Score Improvement Expectations:
Typical Improvements: Most students see 5-15 point total score improvements with adequate preparation
Diminishing Returns: Each successive retake typically yields smaller improvements
Preparation Quality: Improvement depends heavily on identifying and addressing specific weaknesses
Timeline Integration:
Application Deadlines: Ensure retake scores arrive before all target program deadlines
Preparation Time: Allow adequate time between attempts for meaningful skill development
Stress Management: Balance improvement potential against application timeline pressure
Retake Decision Framework
When to Retake:
Significant Score Gaps: 15+ point difference between practice tests and actual scores
Section Imbalances: Dramatic differences between Verbal and Quantitative performance
Target Requirements: Scores below competitive range for target programs
Test Day Issues: External factors (illness, anxiety, technical problems) affecting performance
When Not to Retake:
Marginal Improvements: Scores within 5-10 points of practice test performance
Time Constraints: Insufficient time for meaningful preparation improvement
Application Strength: Strong overall application profile with adequate scores
Stress Factors: Excessive anxiety about testing affecting overall application quality
Score Validity and Reporting
Understanding score validity and reporting procedures ensures optimal strategic use of GRE scores across multiple application cycles.
Five-Year Validity Period
Validity Timeline:
Start Date: Scores valid beginning on test date
End Date: Scores expire exactly five years after test date
No Extensions: Validity period cannot be extended under any circumstances
Global Recognition: Five-year validity accepted by institutions worldwide
Strategic Implications:
Early Testing: Students can test early in undergraduate career for extended validity
Career Planning: Scores remain valid through career changes and gap years
Multiple Applications: Single test can support applications across multiple years
Official Score Reporting
Score Availability Timeline:
Computer-Delivered Tests: Scores available 8-10 days after test date
Analytical Writing: Included in official score report timeline
Score Notification: Email notification when scores become available
Free Score Reports:
Four Recipients: Included in test registration fee
Selection Timing: Must designate recipients before test begins
Institution Codes: Specific codes required for accurate score delivery
Additional Score Reporting
Cost and Timeline:
Additional Reports: $27 per recipient beyond initial four
Processing Time: 5-10 business days for score delivery
Rush Options: No expedited delivery options available
Recipient Management:
Institution Verification: Verify correct codes and departments before ordering
Duplicate Prevention: Track score reports to avoid unnecessary duplicate orders
Timeline Planning: Factor delivery time into application deadline planning
Common Eligibility Misconceptions
Through my extensive experience guiding students through GRE registration, several persistent misconceptions continue to create unnecessary barriers and anxiety.
Misconception 1: "I need a college degree to take the GRE"
Reality: The GRE has no educational prerequisites. While most graduate programs require completed bachelor's degrees, the test itself can be taken by anyone.
Strategic Implication: Advanced high school students or college students can take the GRE early to maintain flexibility in their academic planning.
Misconception 2: "International students face different eligibility requirements"
Reality: All test-takers, regardless of citizenship or residency status, face identical eligibility criteria. The only differences involve testing center locations and documentation requirements.
Strategic Implication: International students should focus on preparation and logistics rather than eligibility concerns.
Misconception 3: "Previous test scores affect future eligibility"
Reality: Poor performance on previous GRE attempts doesn't impact eligibility for future tests, subject only to timing and frequency restrictions.
Strategic Implication: Students can retake the GRE strategically without fear of eligibility complications.
Misconception 4: "Age restrictions limit older students"
Reality: No age restrictions exist for GRE registration. Many successful graduate students begin their studies in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Strategic Implication: Mature students should focus on preparation strategies rather than eligibility concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the GRE without a college degree?
Yes, the GRE has no educational prerequisites. Anyone can register for and take the test regardless of their educational background. However, most graduate programs that require GRE scores also require completed bachelor's degrees for admission. Taking the GRE early can provide flexibility in your academic planning.
Is there an age limit for taking the GRE?
No, there are no age restrictions for GRE registration. Students of any age can take the test, from exceptionally gifted high school students to professionals seeking career changes later in life. I've successfully guided clients ranging from teenagers to septuagenarians through the GRE process.
Do I need US citizenship to take the GRE?
No, citizenship or residency status doesn't affect GRE eligibility. International students from any country can register for and take the GRE. The test is available in over 190 countries, making it truly global in accessibility.
How far in advance should I register for the GRE?
I recommend registering 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak testing seasons (October through January). While some test dates may be available with shorter notice, advance registration ensures you get your preferred date, time, and location. This timeline also accommodates any documentation issues that might arise.
Can I change my test date after registering?
Yes, you can reschedule your GRE up to 4 days before your scheduled test date for a $50 fee, subject to availability at your desired new date and location. Changes within 4 days of your test date are not permitted. Plan ahead to avoid rescheduling fees when possible.
What happens if I don't bring proper identification to the test?
Without proper identification that exactly matches your registration information, you will not be permitted to take the test. You would forfeit your test fee and need to register and pay for a new test date. Always verify your ID meets ETS requirements well before test day.
How many times can I take the GRE?
You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period. Most graduate programs accept your highest scores, making strategic retakes a viable option for score improvement. Plan retakes carefully to ensure scores arrive before application deadlines.
Do I need to take the GRE Subject Tests in addition to the General Test?
GRE Subject Tests are required only by specific graduate programs, typically in fields like Psychology, Physics, or Mathematics. Most graduate programs require only the GRE General Test. Check with your target programs to determine whether Subject Tests are required or recommended for your field.
About the Author: As a certified MBA admission consultant with over 20 years of experience in higher education consulting, I have successfully guided more than 3,000 students through GRE registration and preparation processes. My expertise includes navigating complex eligibility situations, accommodation requests, and international student requirements. Connect with me for personalized consultation on your GRE registration strategy and graduate school planning.
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