GRE Registration 2025 – Complete Guide to GRE Exam Registration & Dates
Planning to pursue your master’s degree abroad? Then booking your GRE slot is your first real step toward that dream. The GRE registration process is simple, entirely online, and designed to be flexible for students worldwide. Whether you are aiming for an MS in the US or an MBA in Europe, securing your test date early is crucial.
In 2025, the GRE exam registration remains open throughout the year, but popular slots in major cities fill up fast. The process takes just 15-20 minutes if you have your documents ready. From creating your ETS account to paying the fee, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Don’t leave this for the last minute! Understanding the GRE test registration rules and checking the latest GRE registration dates now will save you from unnecessary stress later. Let’s get you ready for test day.
GRE Exam Registration Steps – How to Register for GRE in 2025
Registering for the GRE is not rocket science, but small mistakes can cause big headaches later. The official portal is user-friendly, and you can complete your GRE registration from the comfort of your home. Here is the step-by-step process to help you navigate the system:
GRE Exam Registration Steps
- Create Your Profile: Visit the official ETS website (ets.org) and create a test-taker account. Ensure your name matches your ID exactly.
- Select Test Type: Choose between the “GRE General Test” or “GRE Subject Test” based on your program requirements.
- Pick a Location: Decide if you want to take the test at a center or opt for the “GRE at Home” version.
- Find a Date: Browse the available GRE registration dates on the calendar. You will see a 2-month view of available slots.
- Fill Academic Details: You will be asked for basic background information (this helps ETS suggest universities).
- Review & Pay: Double-check all details and pay the fee online to confirm your GRE exam registration.
Download Confirmation: Save the acknowledgment receipt sent to your email.
GRE Test Registration Requirements
Before you start clicking buttons, you need to have specific things ready. ETS is very strict about identification, especially for GRE test registration in India. If your details don’t match, you won’t be allowed to take the test, and you will lose your money.
GRE Registration Requirements
Requirement | Details |
Valid ID Proof | Original Passport is mandatory for Indian students. No other ID is accepted. |
ETS Account | A verified account on the official ETS website. |
Mode of Exam | Decide between Center-based or Home-based testing before starting. |
Registration Fee | A valid credit/debit card (International enabled) or UPI for payment. |
Name as per ID | Your First and Last name must match your Passport exactly (Letter for Letter). |
Key Points to Remember:
- Your ETS profile name cannot be changed easily later, so type it carefully during GRE registration.
- Students must choose the correct test mode (Center vs. Home) during booking; switching later costs extra.
- If choosing “GRE at Home,” ensure you have a webcam, microphone, and stable internet before completing your GRE test registration.
GRE Registration Dates 2025 – When Can You Apply?
One of the best things about the GRE is its flexibility. Unlike other entrance exams that happen once a year, GRE registration dates are available year-round. However, “available” doesn’t mean “always open.” Popular centers in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore get booked weeks in advance.
GRE Registration Dates Availability
Mode | Registration Dates | Notes |
GRE at Test Center | Throughout the year (Mostly Weekdays & Weekends) | Specific dates vary by city and center capacity. |
GRE at Home | 7 Days a Week, 24 Hours a Day | You can book a slot as early as 24 hours later. |
GRE Subject Test | Fixed dates (usually Sep, Oct, Apr) | Only available during specific testing windows. |
Tip: Experts suggest completing your GRE exam registration at least 60-90 days before your university application deadlines to allow time for a retake if needed.
GRE Exam Registration Fees 2025
Budgeting is an important part of your study abroad journey. The GRE registration fee in India is slightly higher than in other countries due to currency exchange rates and taxes.
GRE Fees Breakdown (India)
Category | Fee (INR) |
GRE General Test | ₹22,000 (Approx) |
GRE Subject Test | ₹14,500 |
Rescheduling Fee | ₹5,000 |
Cancellation Fee | ₹11,000 (50% refund only) |
Change Test Center | ₹5,000 |
Payment Notes
- You can pay using Visa, MasterCard, Rupay, or UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm).
- Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) is supported for international cards.
Always keep the payment receipt safe after your GRE test registration.
GRE Registration Process for Indian Students
For Indian candidates, the GRE registration process has a few specific nuances. The most critical factor is the ID requirement. While students globally might use a driver’s license, Indian students MUST use a valid Passport.
Key Points for Indian Students
- Passport Check: Ensure your passport is not expired and won’t expire before the test date.
- Name Format: Indian names can be long. Ensure you split your First, Middle, and Last names correctly in the ETS form to match your Passport.
- Payment Gateways: ETS now accepts UPI and Bharat QR, making GRE exam registration much easier for Indian bank account holders.
Support: If you face issues, you can contact the dedicated ETS India support line (1800-120-0371) or email GRESupport4India@ets.org.
GRE Exam Registration Modes – Online, Phone & Test Center
You have options when it comes to how you take the test. During your GRE test registration, you will need to select the mode that fits your comfort level and infrastructure.
- Online (GRE at Home): Best for students who have a quiet room and good internet. You are proctored remotely via webcam.
- Test Center: Best for students who want a controlled environment without worrying about power cuts or internet failure.
Mode Comparison
Mode | Convenience | Cost | Availability |
Test Center | High (Equipment provided) | Same (₹22,000) | Limited seats per center |
At Home | High (No travel needed) | Same (₹22,000) | Available 24/7 |
Most students prefer the Test Center option for GRE registration to avoid technical glitches at home.
Documents Required for GRE Exam Registration
You don’t need a pile of documents to book your slot, but you do need the right one. ETS keeps it simple but strict.
Checklist
- Original Passport: The physical document (not a photocopy or phone photo) is required on exam day.
- Credit/Debit Card: For paying the fee during GRE exam registration.
- Academic Details: You don’t need to upload transcripts, but knowing your GPA/grades helps in filling out the background questionnaire.
Note: Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Driving License are NOT accepted for GRE registration or entry.
GRE Registration Confirmation & What Happens Next?
Once you hit “Submit,” don’t just close the tab. Ensure your GRE registration is actually confirmed.
- Email Confirmation: You will receive an email from ETS with your appointment number, test center address, and time.
- Dashboard Update: Log in to your ETS account; your “My Tests” section should show the upcoming exam.
- Receipt: Download the payment receipt for your records.
- Next Step: Start your prep! You can also select up to 4 universities to send your scores to for free (you can do this on test day too).
Common Issues During GRE Test Registration & Solutions
Sometimes technology fails. Here are common problems students face during GRE exam registration and how to fix them quickly.
- ID Mismatch: If you realize your name on the form doesn’t match your passport after booking, contact ETS support immediately. You cannot fix this yourself.
- Payment Failure: If your card declines, try a card with international transactions enabled or switch to UPI.
- No Test Slots: If your preferred center is full, check GRE registration dates for nearby cities or switch to the Home edition.
- Session Timeout: The ETS portal times out quickly for security. Keep your details ready to finish GRE registration in one go.
Conclusion – Plan Your GRE Registration Early for Best Results
The GRE registration process is your gateway to global education. While the system is flexible, waiting until the last minute can limit your choices of dates and centers.
Remember, having a confirmed GRE exam registration date gives you a concrete deadline to work toward, boosting your study motivation. Double-check your passport, pick a date that aligns with your admissions timeline, and book your slot today. Your future master’s degree is just a few clicks away!
Feel free to reach via contact us form.
Have a question?
For Indian students, a valid Original Passport is the only mandatory document. You will also need a valid payment method.
Experts recommend completing your GRE registration at least 60 to 90 days before your university application deadline. This gives you a buffer for re-taking the test if needed.
Yes, you can reschedule. However, you must do it at least 4 days before the test date, and it costs INR 5,000.
Yes, for the General Test. GRE registration dates are available throughout the year, but specific center availability depends on demand.
You can view available slots on the ETS website without paying. Create an account, click “Register,” and browse the calendar for your city.
No. A passport is mandatory. If yours is expired or lost, apply for a new one before attempting GRE test registration.
If you cancel at least 4 days before the test, you get a 50% refund (approx INR 11,000). If you cancel later, you lose the full amount.
Technically yes, but it is not recommended for candidates in India. The online GRE exam registration process is faster and less prone to errors.
If you don’t show up, you are marked “Absent” and forfeit your fee. You will have to pay the full amount again for a new GRE registration.
GRE doesn’t have a specific “late registration” window like SAT. You can book a slot as long as it is available, even 2 days before (for online tests), but centers usually fill up weeks ahead.
A 75th percentile GRE score means outperforming 75% of test-takers, typically around 158 Verbal and 162 Quantitative on the 130-170 scale per section, based on ETS annual data. This ranks above average for many graduate programs. Check official percentile tables for exact matches.
Create an ETS account at ets.org/gre, enter personal details, choose test date/center (home or test center), upload ID photo if needed, and pay fee online via card/PayPal. Confirmation email follows; reschedule if required up to 24 hours prior. India-specific: use ets.org/india.
No, 300 total (150 Verbal/Quant) is average (45-50th percentile), achievable in 1-3 months prep for most with consistent practice on official ETS materials. Challenging for weak areas like quant or vocab, but not elite level. Sufficient for mid-tier schools.
The GRE General Test fee is $228 USD worldwide, including India as of 2025; late fees add $35, rescheduling $50. Additional score reports cost $30 each. Pay during online registration; fee waivers available for eligible students.
Depends on strengths: GRE emphasizes advanced verbal/math reasoning (harder for non-natives/math-averse), IELTS tests basic English skills across four sections (easier speaking/listening for fluent speakers). Both require 1-2 months prep; GRE more academic.
90th percentile GRE is approximately 162 Verbal and 167 Quantitative, per ETS charts, excellent for competitive admissions. Varies slightly yearly; combines for strong total around 329. Top programs often expect this or higher.
Yes, 320 (160 average per section) reaches 85th+ percentile, competitive for most US/grad programs except elites (330+). Strong for STEM/business; enhances applications with GPA/experience. Program cutoffs vary.
Yes, a perfect 340 (170V + 170Q) is possible, though rare (<1% achieve); demands 3-6 months intensive prep, error-free performance. Many top scorers hit 168-170; AWA separate (0-6). ETS data confirms feasibility.
Top 1% exceeds 99th percentile: 170 Verbal (99%) and 170 Quantitative (97-99%), totaling 340, elite for Ivies/top schools. Based on ETS global test-taker data; extremely selective benchmark.
Top Ivy League Admits
