The test assesses critical learning skills such as critical thinking, analytical writing and problem-solving ability required for success in higher studies.

Types of GRE Exam that exist:

• The GRE General Test can be used for admissions to most graduate programs like an MBA.

• The GRE Subject Tests are needed for special programs in subjects like Physics, Chemistry or Mathematics.

Students can choose to write the GRE at an authorised test centre or from their home comfort zone through an internet-based option. The GRE General Test takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes and costs approximately ₹22,000 in India. The GRE Subject Test takes anywhere between 2 to 2.5 hours depending on the subject and costs around ₹14,500.

Latest GRE Exam Highlights (2025)

• The GRE exam is now shorter – it takes only 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete, effective from September 22, 2023.

• Students can choose to take the GRE either at a test centre or from home, offering more flexibility.

• For Indian students, the cost of the GRE General Test is ₹22,550.

• Within eight to ten days following the exam date official GRE results are released.

• GRE scores are welcomed for admission to leading Indian Business Schools ISB, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore,  IIM Lucknow etc.

• Globally, top B-schools such as Harvard, Stanford, INSEAD etc also accept GRE scores for their MBA programs.

GRE Exam & its Types 

GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a globally accepted computer-based admission test for entry to graduate courses like MBA. It is organised by Educational Testing Service - ETS and tests an applicant's skills in verbal reasoning (VR), quantitative reasoning (QA) and analytical writing (AW). More than 1,300 business schools around the world like those in the India, USA, Canada, UK and Australia use GRE General Test scores for entry to their MBA and master's or doctoral programs in business.

The GRE General Test is the more popular test and is suitable for candidates applying to a broad variety of graduate programs such as MBA. It assesses three main skills of the candidates which are analytical writing, numeric reasoning and verbal reasoning.  Five years after the date of your score the test is still valid. For Indian students the General Test can be sat at home online or at a test centre in person and the cost is still ₹22,000.

GRE General Test takes a computer-based test and the test range is 260 to 340. The test is of about 1 hour and 58 minutes and it is administered throughout the year so the students can schedule as per their convenience. The test can be taken either at official test centers or from home based on availability.  

Key Highlights of the GRE Exam: At a Glance

GRE 2025 Eligibility & Fees 

Eligibility Criteria for the GRE Exam 2025 

There are no rigid eligibility criteria prescribed by ETS to appear for the GRE test. Anyone can sign up irrespective of age and educational qualifications. However, in order to appear for the test at the test centre test-takers are required to bring their original and valid passport as proof of identification. So, get yourself a passport prior to registration.

• No Age Limit – As such no age limit is set for the candidate to sit for the exam.

• No Particular Qualification Required – ETS does not need you to have any specific degree to write the test but a bachelor's degree is normally required if you are applying for a master's or PhD program.

• Passport is Required – Bring a current passport for verification purposes on test day.

Fees for the GRE Exam 2025 

GRE Exam Registration Process 2025

Students can register for the GRE test by visiting ETS India's official website. To book a time slot for the GRE test candidates have to pay the ₹22,000 registration fee through a debit or credit card or any other internet payment system. The applicant also needs to possess a valid passport to register for the exam.

How can candidates register themselves for the GRE exam (Online)?

Candidates must simply follow a few easy steps to register for the 2025 GRE exam:

1. Visit the Official ETS Website: Go to https://www.ets.org/mygre and either sign up for a new ETS account or sign in to your current one.

2. Choose the test type: The option for the GRE General Test to be selected

3. Select a Test Date and Location: Select a test centre and date of your convenience. If you want to attempt the test at home you can choose the GRE at Home option instead.

4. Make the Payment: Pay the registration fee of ₹22,000 through a debit card, credit card or any online mode of payment available.

5. Use a Valid Passport: A current passport must be presented at the time of registration as well as on test day to serve as proof of identity.

6. Save the Confirmation: Once your registration has been completed save the confirmation page or email to refer to later.

GRE Exam 2025: Key Dates and Scheduling Tips 

In India, the GRE test is available on various dates during the year and candidates have the option to schedule the test on dates and times that are convenient for them. It's advisable to reserve their GRE test in advance ideally 2–3 months prior to their first university admissions deadline. This leaves them with an opportunity to retake the test in case they're not happy with their original score.

Example: If the application deadline for the university is in December then they need to schedule the GRE in September or October. That way, if required they can retake it in November and still keep up with their deadlines.

Attempts at the GRE and Availability

Attempts:

• Attempts: Whether taking the GRE at home or at a testing facility, candidates may attempt it up to five times in a 12-month period (365 days), or once every 21 days.

GRE at Home:

• This one is available 24/7 and they can arrange it as early as 24 hours from the time of registration. Ensure their computer and testing environment are in compliance with the prescribed conditions.

GRE Subject Tests:

• These are administered three times a year and they can take them as frequently as they are offered.

GRE Test Centres in India (2025)

Indian students wishing to write the GRE have lot of test centres to pick from in every part of India or can take the GRE at Home option. ETS administers the test in more than 45 Indian cities making it easily available for students from all over.

For those who are unable to go to a test centre or do not have one close, the GRE at Home version is an easy and adaptable option. It permits them to take the test from the comfort of their home as long as their computer and surroundings comply with the technical specifications.

How to Pick a GRE Testing Facility

Candidates can select the closest test facility to their location when they enrol for the GRE. The list of test centres is continuously updated on the official ETS GRE website. Students are encouraged to book early to get their desired slot and location.

GRE Test Centres Available in India

Note:  The above information is from the ETS India Website.

GRE Slot Booking Process 2025 (India)

If the students are going to take the GRE in 2025 they'll have to book their test slot on the official ETS GRE website. It is essential to choose a date that provides them sufficient time to get their scores before their university application deadlines. Steps to Book the GRE Slot:

1. Create an ETS Account: Begin by registering on the official ETS GRE website. You will require an account to initiate the registration process.

2. Select Your Test Date and Centre: Once you have created your account, choose your desired test date, venue and time slot. You may select a local test centre or opt for the GRE at Home in case you are eligible.

3. Pay the Test price: Use a debit or international credit card to complete the booking process and pay the GRE registration price.

Important Tips :

• Book Early: Attempt to book your time slot well in advance to prevent last-minute complications or unavailability.

• Check Your Details: Ensure the name and details you provide at the time of registration are exactly as your name appears on your valid Indian passport.

• No Entry on Mismatch: If your registration details are not the same as your ID you will not be permitted to sit for the test.

• Review Policies: Read all the guidelines for test day and ID requirements on the ETS website prior to finalising your registration.

GRE 2025 Exam Pattern

The Graduate Record Examination popularly known as GRE has three sections in it GRE General Test. These sections are Analytical Writing (AW), Quantitative Reasoning (QR) and Verbal Reasoning (VR). The exam will be of 1 Hour and 58 Minutes in a computer-based format which can be taken at the centre or at the candidate's home. 

GRE Scores 2025 

Students taking the GRE test can access their scores by logging into their ETS account with their password and username. Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores are included in the total GRE score which can vary from 260 to 340. The Analytical Writing (AWA) component is scored independently. For 5 years GRE exam scores are useful.

GRE Score Range

Note: The above table is from ETS Official Website for GRE exam.

Sending Your GRE Scores

When candidates register for the GRE they can send up to 4 scores to colleges or scholarship plans free:

• For computer-based tests candidates must select recipients immediately after completing the test at the test centre.

• For paper-based tests candidates can select them when registering or on their admission ticket.

• If later candidates want to add other institutes they will have to make payment of $27 per recipient.

GRE Cutoff Scores

ETS has no specific GRE cutoff but universities and scholarship committees have their own minimum score requirements. Such cutoffs vary based on the ranking of the university, the program or specialisation, the level of competition and scholarship eligibility criteria. Scoring at or above the cutoff will enhance the prospect of admission or selection for scholarships for a test-taker.