GRE Exam 2026
If you are dreaming of pursuing a Master’s (MS), MBA, or PhD in countries like the USA, Canada, or Germany, the GRE Exam is likely your first big hurdle. Think of the GRE as a global passport for your postgraduate education—it tells universities that you are ready for advanced academic work.
However, the exam has changed recently. It is shorter, faster, and more streamlined than before. If you are confused about the new pattern, the fees in Indian Rupees, or how to start preparing, you are in the right place.
This guide covers every single detail you need to know about the GRE Exam in 2026—from registration to results—so you can focus less on Googling and more on studying.
What Is the GRE Exam?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It is one of the most widely accepted assessment tests for graduate admissions worldwide.
Unlike exams that test only your knowledge of a specific subject (like GATE for engineering), the GRE tests your critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills.
Types of GRE Exams
- GRE General Test: This is the most popular version. It is required for MS and MBA programs. When people say “GRE,” they usually mean this one.
- GRE Subject Test: This focuses on specific subjects like Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, or Psychology. You only take this if a specific university program asks for it.
Why Do Students Take the GRE?
- Global Acceptance: Accepted by thousands of graduate and business schools globally.
- Scholarship Opportunities: A high GRE score (320+) significantly increases your chances of getting funding or merit-based scholarships.
- Visa Approval: A good score strengthens your student visa application by proving your academic intent.
MBA Options: Many top business schools (like Harvard and Stanford) accept GRE scores instead of GMAT.
GRE Exam Dates 2026
One of the best things about the GRE is its flexibility. There is no single “exam day.” The test is conducted year-round. You can take it on almost any day of the week, depending on seat availability at the test centre.
You can take the test in two modes:
- GRE Test Centre: You go to a designated Prometric centre.
GRE General Test at Home: You take the test on your own computer under remote proctoring.
GRE Exam Dates Availability (Tentative 2026)
| Month | Available Test Dates | Mode | Booking Status |
| January 2025 | All Weekdays & Select Weekends | Centre / Home | Open |
| February 2025 | All Weekdays & Select Weekends | Centre / Home | Open |
| March 2025 | All Weekdays & Select Weekends | Centre / Home | Open |
| April 2025 | All Weekdays & Select Weekends | Centre / Home | Open |
| May 2025 | All Weekdays & Select Weekends | Centre / Home | Open |
GRE Exam Fee 2025
GRE Fee Structure (India)
| Service | Fee (USD) | Fee (INR approx.) |
| GRE General Test | $228 | ₹19,100 |
| GRE Subject Test | $150 | ₹12,600 |
| Rescheduling Fee | $50 | ₹4,200 |
| Change of Center | $50 | ₹4,200 |
| Additional Score Report | $35 | ₹2,900 |
GRE Exam Pattern & Sections
GRE Exam Sections Overview
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allocated | Score Range |
| Analytical Writing | 1 Essay Task | 30 Minutes | 0 – 6.0 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 27 Questions (2 Sections) | 41 Minutes | 130 – 170 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 27 Questions (2 Sections) | 47 Minutes | 130 – 170 |
| Total | 55 Questions | ~2 Hours | 260 – 340 |
- Computer-Adaptive: The test adapts to your level. If you do well in the first section of Verbal/Quant, the second section becomes harder (and allows you to score higher).
- No Breaks: Since the exam is short, there is no scheduled break.
- Calculator: An on-screen calculator is provided for the Quant section.
GRE Exam Syllabus (Brief)
You don’t need to be a math genius or a walking dictionary to crack the GRE. You just need to understand the logic behind the questions.
1. Verbal Reasoning
- Reading Comprehension: Reading passages and answering logical questions.
- Text Completion: Filling in blanks in a sentence with the correct vocabulary to complete the meaning.
- Sentence Equivalence: Choosing two words that complete a sentence and give it the same meaning.
2. Quantitative Reasoning
- Arithmetic: Integers, divisibility, roots, exponents, and remainders.
- Algebra: Linear equations, quadratics, and functions.
- Geometry: Circles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and coordinate geometry.
- Data Analysis: Statistics (mean, median, mode), probability, and interpreting charts/graphs.
3. Analytical Writing
- Analyze an Issue: You will be given a topic (e.g., “Technology makes us less creative”). You must write an essay supporting or opposing the statement with logical examples.
GRE Exam Score & Score Calculation
| Section | Score Scale | Good Score Estimate |
| Verbal Reasoning | 130 – 170 | 152+ |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 130 – 170 | 160+ |
| Analytical Writing | 0 – 6.0 (0.5 increments) | 4.0+ |
- Validity: Your GRE score is valid for 5 years from the test date.
- Total Score: The total is out of 340 (Verbal + Quant).
- Top Universities: For Ivy League or top-tier colleges, aim for 320+.
- Average Universities: A score between 300–310 is generally safe for many good state universities.
Best GRE Prep Books for 2026
Don’t buy every book you see. Stick to the trusted ones.
Book Title | Publisher | Best For |
The Official Guide to the GRE | ETS | Must-Have. Authentic questions from the test makers. |
5 lb. Book of GRE Problems | Manhattan Prep | Quant Practice. Thousands of math problems. |
GRE Prep Plus 2025 | Kaplan | Strategy. Good for learning tips and tricks. |
Barron’s GRE | Barron’s | Vocabulary. Excellent word lists and harder practice sets. |
How to Prepare for GRE Exam in 2026?
Preparing for the GRE takes about 2 to 3 months for most students. Here is a simple strategy:
- Take a Diagnostic Test: Before studying, take a free mock test to see where you stand (e.g., scoring 290 vs. 310 requires different strategies).
- Build Vocabulary: GRE English is tricky. Learn 10–20 new words daily using apps like Magoosh or flashcards.
- Practice Quant Basics: If you haven’t done math since Class 10, review basic formulas for Geometry and Algebra first.
- Mock Tests: Take at least 5 full-length mock tests. Analyze why you got a question wrong—was it a calculation error or a concept gap?
- Focus on Weakness: If your Quant is 165 but Verbal is 140, spend 70% of your time on Verbal.
GRE Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
Registering is easy, but ensure your name matches your ID exactly.
- Visit ETS: Go to the official ETS GRE website.
- Create Account: Sign up using your email ID.
- Start Registration: Click on “Register / Find Test Centers.”
- Select Details: Choose your city, date, and preferred time slot.
- Payment: Pay the $228 fee using an International Credit/Debit card.
- Confirmation: You will receive an appointment email. Save this.
GRE Exam Day Guidelines
- Mandatory ID: In India, a VALID PASSPORT is the only accepted ID. Aadhar/PAN cards are strictly NOT accepted at centres.
- Reporting Time: Reach the centre at least 30 minutes before your slot.
- No Electronics: Watches, phones, and fitness bands must be stored in a locker.
- Scratch Paper: The centre will provide paper and pencils for rough work.
Feel free to reach via contact us form.
Have a question?
It is used for admission to Master’s (MS), MBA, Specialized Master’s in Business, and Doctoral (PhD) programs globally.
It is challenging but manageable. The math is high-school level (Class 10), but the vocabulary and logical reasoning can be tough for non-native English speakers.
A score of 320+ is excellent. A score of 300–310 is average/good. Anything below 290 might make admissions difficult.
You can take it once every 21 days, up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period.
No! There is no negative marking. You should answer every single question, even if you have to guess.
Yes. You will be denied entry without a valid original passport. No other ID works.
Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided for the Quantitative Reasoning section only.
Scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
Yes. GRE tests your academic readiness (logic/math). IELTS/TOEFL tests your English language proficiency. Most universities require both.
Yes, the “GRE General Test at Home” is available. You need a private room, a reliable computer, and a webcam for proctoring.
For most top universities, yes. Some universities made it optional after COVID-19, but a good score still helps your application stand out.
It fluctuates with the dollar rate, but it is approximately ₹19,000 to ₹19,500.
Ideally, take it between August 2025 and October 2025. This gives you time to report scores before deadlines (Dec/Jan).
Analytical Writing is always first. The order of Verbal and Quant sections varies.
No. You must retake the entire exam. However, with the “ScoreSelect” option, you can choose to send only your best total score to universities.
Usually, no. Engineering students find the Quant section easier but often struggle with Verbal Reasoning.
Yes. Unlike the SAT, the GRE does not provide a formula sheet. You must memorize formulas for Geometry, Algebra, etc.
You see your unofficial Verbal and Quant scores immediately after finishing the test. The official report (with essay scores) comes in 8–10 days.
You see your unofficial Verbal and Quant scores immediately after finishing the test. The official report (with essay scores) comes in 8–10 days.
The General Test covers Math and English. The Subject Test covers deep knowledge of one specific field (e.g., Physics). 90% of students only take the General Test.
Yes, you can reschedule up to 4 days before your test date, but you have to pay a fee of $50.
Top Ivy League Admits
