Complete Guide to GRE 2025: Key Dates, Fees, Eligibility & More

Are you one of the ambitious students who wish to pursue a graduate degree at a prestigious university in another country? Then you are required to take exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, etc., as per the requirements of the universities.

And, if you want to study in the United States, maybe an MS in the US, you'll need to take the GRE, which is required by nearly all universities. The GRE test is also accepted in other English-speaking countries such as Canada and Australia.

However, let’s face it – the GRE is something everyone dreads, and we have all completed countless Google searches to find GRE Exam dates, fees, registration, eligibility, syllabus, pattern, etc. This article will cover all your pre-examination queries about the GRE. So keep reading till the end to learn everything there is to know about the GRE Exam 2025.

What is the GRE?

The Graduate Record Examination, abbreviated as GRE, is a standardised test required for admission to most graduate-level programs. Universities across the U.S, U.K., Germany, Canada, etc accept the GRE score and use the scores as a common criterion to compare students of different educational backgrounds. 

The GRE Exam includes two types of tests, namely the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Tests. These tests are owned and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The GRE Exam is conducted in both online and offline formats, and candidates can visit the official website of ETS for registration. 

GRE Exam Eligibility 2025

There are no specific GRE eligibility criteria as prescribed by ETS. Anyone can register for the GRE test, regardless of age or educational background.

This is because the conducting body of the GRE does not set any age limit or mandatory qualification for appearing in the GRE test.

• Since the GRE is used for admission to master's programs, candidates must have an undergraduate degree in any recognised field.
• A valid, government-issued photo ID is required. Acceptable forms include your passport only.
• No age limit - The GRE Exam can be taken at any age.

Types of GRE Exam

There are two types of GRE tests, which are-

1. GRE Subject Test - This test is specific and aims to measure the capability of candidate in specific subject areas only. The tests are available in Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology. In general, this test is required to get admission to specialised courses.

2. GRE General Test - This test is not related to a specific subject. Though it was aligned a long time ago, it is important for all as it closely lines up with the skills required for success in today’s graduate programs.

GRE Test Formats

At present, the GRE General Test is available in two formats in India.

GRE Computer-Based Test

Taking the GRE at a test centre provides a controlled and standardised environment, ensuring a fair testing experience. Though the at-home option is convenient, many candidates choose or need to take the test at an official centre. Let’s dive into all the important details about taking the GRE at a test centre!

• Finding a Test Centre: You can find GRE test centres all around the world! Just head over to the ETS website while you're registering to easily locate one that's close to you. 
• ID Check: Make sure to bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, like a passport or driver's license. The proctors will take a digital photo of you and scan your ID for verification.
• Security Measures: Personal items such as phones, bags, and coats can't be taken into the testing room. You'll need to store them in a designated area outside the room.
• Test Sections: The GRE is divided into Verbal Reasoning (two sections of 35 minutes each), Quantitative Reasoning (two sections of 35 minutes each), and Analytical Writing (two tasks, 30 minutes each).
• Breaks: You'll get a 10-minute break after the third section, plus shorter breaks between the other sections—just keep in mind the timer will continue running.

Once you finish the GRE, you can quickly check your unofficial scores for the Verbal and Quantitative sections right away!

Your official scores will be accessible in your ETS account in about 10-15 days. Test centres won’t provide physical score reports.

GRE at Home Test

The GRE at Home is the same official GRE General Test offered by ETS, but you can take it on your personal computer instead of at a test centre.

GRE at Home Requirements:

To take the GRE at Home, your setup must meet specific criteria to maintain test security and performance quality.

• Computer: You must use a desktop or laptop with Windows 10/8 or macOS 10.5+.
• Browser: Chrome or Firefox are required. Safari and other browsers are not compatible with the test software.
• Camera: You need a built-in or external webcam capable of showing a 360-degree view of your room.
• Audio: Use internal or external microphones and speakers. Headphones, earbuds, or anything covering your ears are prohibited.
• Software: You must download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser. Also, run the ProctorU system check in advance to ensure everything is compatible.

GRE at Home is often preferred by those who value privacy, flexibility, or have limited access to test centres.

How is the GRE Structured?

• The GRE General Test is divided into three sections (Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning) and takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. 

• While the GRE tests similar knowledge to the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), it is a bit more intense because of the styles of questions and ways you can answer.

The three GRE parts are analytical writing (the essay), quantitative reasoning (math), and verbal reasoning (reading). Here’s how they are broken up during the actual test:

1. Analytical Writing (aka the essay): The Analytical Writing section has 2 essays, with 30 minutes per essay to complete each essay. In total, you'll get 60 minutes for 2 essays on-

• Issue - You will be asked to respond to an issue presented to you, presenting your viewpoint and providing examples that support your view. You can support or refute the argument. It makes no difference which side of the issue you choose as long as you adequately assess the issue and present a thorough explanation.

• Argument - You will be asked to critique an argument’s reasoning and analyse the argument's strengths and weaknesses. You might be presented with a passage where the logic is flawed.

2. Verbal reasoning (aka the reading comprehension part): Two 30-minute sessions with 20 multiple-choice reading comprehension or vocabulary questions each. In total, you'll get 60 minutes for 40 questions on-

• Discrete Short-Answer – Fill-in-the-blank questions that test your reading comprehension, ability to use context clues, and vocabulary skills. You must select the correct word(s) to fill the blank(s) in the sentence. There might be up to three blanks. These types of questions will either be in the sentence equivalence style or the text completion style.

• Critical Reading – You will be given a brief passage to read and then asked several questions that require you to interpret and analyse what you read.

3. Quantitative reasoning (aka the math part): There are two 35-minute sessions, each with 20 multiple-choice or fill-in-the-blank math problems. In total, you'll get 70 minutes for 40 questions on-

• Quantitative Comparison – You will be given two quantities (Quantity A and B). For each of these questions, the question will be four possible answers. There are in total of 15 of these questions on the exam.

• Discrete Quantitative – The typical multiple-choice math questions. Just solve the problem and provide the correct answer – either by selecting the correct answer choice or typing the numerical answer in the box. There are also some questions where you will have to choose more than one answer. There are in total of 19 discrete quantitative questions on the exam.

• Data Interpretation – You will be shown some kind of set of data through a graph, chart, table, or figure. The questions will ask you to analyse the data by either calculating something or making some kind of inference. There are 6 of these questions on the exam.

There are two more sections, namely unscored and research, where the number of questions and time may vary according to the situation. 

What is the GRE Exam Syllabus?

The GRE syllabus is divided into three main sections, where -

1. The Analytical Writing Syllabus requires you to

• • Articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

  • Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples.

  • Examine claims and accompanying evidence.

  • Sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion.

  • Control the elements of standard written English.

2. The Verbal Reasoning Syllabus requires you to 

• • Analyse and conclude discourse; reason from incomplete data; identify the author's perspective and/or assumptions; understand multiple levels of meaning, such as literal, figurative, and the author's intent

  • Select important points; distinguish major from minor or irrelevant points; summarise text; understand the structure of a text

  • Understand the meaning of individual words, sentences, and entire texts; understand the concepts and relationships among words

3. The Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus requires you to 

• • Understand, interpret and analyse quantitative information

  • Solve problems using mathematical models

  • Apply basic skills and elementary concepts of algebra, arithmetic, data analysis, and geometry.

GRE 2025 Scores

Candidates can access their GRE scores by logging into their ETS account by entering their credentials.

The maximum marks that you can score are 340, while the minimum marks are 260.

GRE Score Range

Source: ETS

How Do I Register for the GRE?

Before proceeding with the Graduate Record Examination registration process, kindly review all the policies and procedures mentioned on the ETS website, for eg, the fees charged for the exam, rescheduling and cancellation policies, personal credentials, etc.

Now, let’s start with the GRE registration process. 

1. Create an ETS account on the official website.e

2. Students can register either at a test centre or online. Any of the following is acceptable.

3. To register for the GRE General test at home, students are requested to register through their official ETS account.

4. Students are advised to register as soon as possible as they can get their preferred test location and date selection.

5. Pay the fees online to complete registration. If you are willing to pay with a paper check or money order, students are advised to request an Authorisation Voucher by mail.

Rescheduling your GRE Test:

1. Students who are willing to reschedule their test have to do it no later than 4 days before their GRE test date.

2. Students can reschedule their test online by calling the appropriate Regional Registration Centre (RRC).

Cancelling your GRE Test:

1. Students who want to cancel their test have to do it no later than 4 days before their GRE test date.

2. Students will receive a refund equivalent to half of the original fee.

3. Students can cancel their test by calling the appropriate Regional Registration Centre (RRC).

How Much Does the GRE Cost?

GRE Fees for Standard Test Administration are $249, which accounts for approximately INR 22,000/-, and if later students want to change their test centres, they will be charged an amount of additional $56, which accounts for approximately INR 5000/-

So be careful while selecting your test centre.

GRE Special Handling Requests India Rates

GRE Exam Dates for 2025

There are several GRE dates in 2025, just like there are for other international standardised examinations, and students can select any GRE date that is convenient and available to them.

GRE Dates 2025 for Delhi

GRE Dates 2025 for Mumbai

GRE Dates 2025 for Kolkata

GRE Dates 2025 for Bengaluru

GRE Dates 2025 for Hyderabad

GRE Dates 2025 for Pune

GRE Dates 2025 for Chennai

GRE Dates 2025 for Ahmedabad

GRE Dates 2025 for Chandigarh

GRE Dates 2025 for Cochin

Note: Late registration closes one week after the regular registration deadline. 

GRE Test Centres

Candidates can schedule their GRE from any of more than 1,000 GRE test centres in over 160 countries. Otherwise, you can take it from the comfort of their homes.

ETS conducts the GRE in 47 Indian cities across the country.

Here is a list of Indian cities where test centres are available:

Source: ETS India Official Website

GRE Registration

Here’s a step-by-step guide for the registration process of GRE 2025

• Go to the ETS GRE official website and create your account.

• Then, log in to your ETS account, click on the “Register for GRE” option, and subsequently choose the type of GRE test you want to appear for.

• Choose your preferred exam date and centre and start filling in the details stated in the application form.

• The next step is to submit your original identity proof, like Aadhar, Voter, PAN Card or Passport.

• Now, you can proceed to make the fee payment.

Once your payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation email for your GRE 2025 registration.

How Do I Prepare for the GRE?

Students who are willing to prepare for the GRE Exam 2025 can visit the official website, as it offers free and affordable tools for students. 

Other important tips are: 

1. Watch relevant tutorials.

2. Make the best use of the internet.

3. Take as many practice tests as you can.

4. Solve the previous year's sample papers. 

Conclusion

The GRE Exam in 2025 opens doors to prestigious universities worldwide! Understanding the exam dates, fees, structure, and syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. Make sure to register early, utilise official ETS resources, and practice regularly. With a solid strategy in place, achieving a strong GRE score is completely attainable!