The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test widely used for graduate school admissions worldwide. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE evaluates critical skills like analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. Registering for the GRE online is the most convenient and efficient way to secure your test date, whether you choose to take it at a test center or at home.
This guide provides a step-by-step process to register for the GRE online. By following these steps, you can book your preferred test date and location in just 15–20 minutes, allowing you to focus on preparing for the exam.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register for the GRE Online
Step 1: Create an ETS Account
To begin, visit the official ETS website and create an account. Click on the “Create an Account” option under the “New Users” section. You’ll need to provide personal information, including your full name, date of birth, email address, home address, and phone number. Ensure the name you enter matches exactly with the identification (ID) document you’ll present on test day, as discrepancies may prevent you from testing or lead to score cancellation. After filling in your details, set up a username, password, and security question. You’ll receive an email verification link to activate your account.
Step 2: Log In to Your ETS Account
Once your account is verified, log in to your ETS account. On the “My GRE Home” page, locate the “Register/Find Test Centers, Dates” button to start the registration process. This portal allows you to manage your test registration, view scores, and make changes to your test date or location if needed.
Step 3: Choose Your Test Type and Format
Select whether you’re registering for the GRE General Test or a GRE Subject Test. The General Test assesses analytical writing, verbal, and quantitative skills, while Subject Tests evaluate proficiency in specific fields like Mathematics or Psychology. Next, decide whether you want to take the test at a test center or at home. The at-home option is available in most countries (except Mainland China and Iran) and requires a computer, webcam, microphone, and a suitable testing environment. Ensure your setup meets ETS’s equipment and environment requirements, such as a quiet room with a visible door and no unapproved items like notes or food.
Step 4: Select a Test Date and Location
For test center registration, choose a two-month period to view available test dates and centers. The GRE General Test is offered year-round at over 1,000 test centers in more than 160 countries, with appointments available on a first-come, first-served basis. For at-home testing, appointments are available 24/7, and you can often schedule a test within 24 hours of registration. Pick a date and time that aligns with your preparation timeline and graduate school application deadlines, ideally allowing 3–6 weeks for potential retakes, as scores are reported 8–10 days after the test.
Step 5: Complete Registration Details
Verify your personal information and choose whether to opt into the free GRE Search Service, which allows universities and fellowship sponsors to contact you about admissions opportunities. You’ll also need to provide background information, such as your gender, ethnicity, and undergraduate GPA, for the GRE Search Service. Optionally, select any ETS test preparation materials, like POWERPREP Online, to add to your cart.
Step 6: Pay the Registration Fee
The GRE General Test fee is $220 USD in most countries ($213 in India, $231.30 in China). For Subject Tests, the fee is $150. Payment can be made via credit/debit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, JCB, or Rupay), PayPal, or e-check. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready. After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, location (or test link for at-home testing), and a confirmation number. Save this email, as you’ll need it on test day.
Step 7: Review and Confirm
Before finalizing, review all details, including your test type, date, time, and location. Ensure your ID matches your registration details to avoid issues on test day. Once confirmed, print or save your test voucher for reference. If you’re taking the test at home, run the equipment check provided by ETS to confirm your computer and testing environment meet the requirements.
Key Policies to Understand
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Testing Frequency: You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, even if you cancel scores from a previous test.
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Cancellation and Rescheduling: Cancel at least four days before your test date (10 days in Mainland China) to receive a 50% refund. Rescheduling costs $50 and must also be done at least four days before the test.
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ID Requirements: Your ID must be government-issued, original, and unexpired, with a name matching your ETS account exactly. Check ETS’s ID policies, as requirements vary by country.
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Fee Reductions: Eligible candidates can apply for a GRE Fee Reduction Voucher based on financial need or unemployment status, reducing the test cost by 50%. Contact ETS for details.
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Accommodations: If you have disabilities or health-related needs, submit the Test Authorization Voucher Request Form to request accommodations before registering.
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FAQs
How far in advance should I register for the GRE?
Register at least 2–3 months in advance to secure your preferred test center and date, especially for test center appointments, as slots fill quickly. For at-home testing, you can register as late as 1–2 days before, but early registration is recommended to align with application deadlines.
Can I change my test date or location after registering?
Yes, you can reschedule through your ETS account or by calling the Regional Registration Center, but you must do so at least four days before your test date and pay a $50 fee. Availability for new dates or locations is not guaranteed.
What happens if my ID doesn’t match my registration details?
If your ID doesn’t match the name on your ETS account, you won’t be allowed to test, and your fees will be forfeited. Double-check your details during registration and use the exact name on your ID.
Is the at-home GRE test different from the test center version?
No, the at-home GRE General Test is identical in content, format, and scoring to the test center version. It’s monitored by a human proctor via ProctorU, and you must meet strict equipment and environment requirements.
How do I know if I’m eligible for a fee reduction?
ETS offers fee reductions for those demonstrating financial need, unemployment, or participation in specific programs like the Gates Millennium Scholars. Check the GRE Fee Reduction Program page on the ETS website for eligibility criteria and application steps.