A Complete Guide to GRE Registration and Fees

Published on:
May 7, 2025
Read time:
12 minutes

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Introduction:

Complete Guide to GRE Registration and Fees

If you’re considering graduate school, you’ve probably come across three letters that hold a lot of weight: GRE.

The GRE isn’t just another standardized test- it’s the launchpad for your graduate school journey, a gateway to academic ambition and professional growth.

This guide is your one-stop resource for navigating the GRE, from registration and rescheduling to test prep and policies.

01. How to Register for the GRE General Test

GRE Test Center Registration

Student registering for the GRE.

Candidates may register to take the GRE General Test at a designated test center through two primary methods:

Online Registration

Registration is completed via the ETS account portal in most countries.

However, candidates located in mainland China must register through an NEEA account.

Phone Registration

Candidates in the United States, its territories, and Canada may register by calling Prometric Services at 1-443-751-4820 or 1-800-473-2255.

Those in other regions must contact their respective Regional Registration Center (RRC) as listed in the official GRE Information Bulletin  document.

Registration Deadline: You must register at least two days prior to the intended test date.
Test Fee: The standard registration fee is $220 USD.

Payment Methods: Credit or debit card, PayPal, e-check, ETS voucher, or mailed paper check.

GRE at Home Registration

Student filling out GRE registration form on laptop.

Candidates also have the option to take the GRE General Test from home, subject to meeting specific technical and environmental requirements. Registration must be completed online through the candidate’s ETS account.

Test Fee: Typically $220 USD, subject to regional variations and available discounts.


Minimum Requirements:

  • A desktop or laptop computer (Chromebooks and tablets are not supported)
  • A movable webcam
  • A functioning microphone and speaker (headphones are not permitted)
  • A quiet, private testing environment

The at-home test is administered via ProctorU with a live human proctor to ensure compliance with ETS testing standards.

To avoid any last-minute issues, it is strongly recommended that you carefully review the official GRE At-Home Test Day Guidelines. This page outlines exactly what to expect on test day - including setup instructions, security protocols, and behavior policies. Reviewing these details in advance will help you feel confident, prepared, and fully equipped for a stress-free test day.

02. Test Formats and Frequency

Student focused on GRE preparation.

The GRE General Test is offered in two formats:

  • Computer-Based Test: Available year-round at authorized test centers globally.
  • Paper-Based Test: Offered twice annually typically in February and November, in locations where computer-based testing is not available.

To learn more about the test format and structure, visit the official ETS’s About the GRE General Test page.

03. Changing or Managing Your Test Registration

03. Changing or Managing Your Test Registration

ETS offers flexible options for candidates who need to adjust their test plans.

A student reviewing GRE profile details, representing GRE ID and verification process.

Rescheduling

Candidates may reschedule their GRE test date via their ETS account or by phone, no later than four days prior to the originally scheduled date (ten days for test-takers in China). A rescheduling fee will apply. The new date must be within one year of the original appointment.

Canceling

Tests may be canceled through the ETS account or by phone. If canceled at least four days in advance, ETS will issue a 50% refund of the test fee. No refund is granted for cancellations made after this period. All refunds are processed in U.S. dollars.

Retaking the GRE

Candidates may retake the GRE General Test once every 21 days, and no more than five times within any continuous 12-month period, regardless of the test delivery method.

Visit the official site for more information - The GRE® General Test

04. GRE Refund and Payment Policies

GRE Refunds and Policies.

The following policies apply to GRE test-takers in the 2025 testing cycle:

  • If payment is not received in full, scores will be withheld, and a $20 service charge will be applied.
  • No refunds are offered for additional services such as score reporting or rescheduling.
  • All refunds are issued in U.S. dollars.
  • Non-payment results in suspension of test services and access to scores.

For complete details, read the official GRE Information Bulletin.

05. Score Reporting and Availability

A student analysing score for the GRE.

After completing the GRE General Test:

  • Unofficial scores for the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are displayed immediately.
  • Official scores, including those for the Analytical Writing section, will be available in your ETS account within 10 to 15 days of the test date.

Test registration includes the ability to send scores to four institutions at no additional cost. Additional score reports may be purchased for $40 per recipient.

06. Study Smarter, Not Harder: GRE Prep Tips

Student getting to know about GRE study tips and strategies.

Preparing for the GRE is like training for a marathon - it’s about consistency, pacing, and mental stamina.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

  1. Understand the Format: Know the sections, timing, and question types inside and out. You can start by reviewing the format on the GRE General Test Overview.
  2. Practice with Purpose: Use official GRE materials to build familiarity with the exam.
  3. Identify Weak Spots: Whether it’s geometry or vocabulary, focus on the areas where you're losing points.
  4. Take Full-Length Tests: Simulate test day to build endurance.
  5. Build a Study Plan: Set goals, track progress, and reward yourself for milestones.

07. At Home vs. Test Center: Which Is Right for You?

Student deciding between taking GRE at home or at a test center.

GRE at Home

Best for: Independent learners who are tech-savvy and comfortable testing in a quiet space.
Learn more from official ETS Source: Test Day at Home

GRE at a Test Center

Best for: Students who prefer a formal, distraction-free environment and need a stable test infrastructure.
Learn more from official ETS Source: Test Day at a Center

Conclusion

Successfully preparing for the GRE begins with understanding the registration process, choosing the appropriate test format, and being aware of key policies related to scheduling, cancellations, retakes, and payments. Whether testing at home or at a center, knowing what to expect and following official guidelines ensures a smooth experience.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you make informed decisions throughout your GRE journey. For the most accurate and updated information, always refer to ETS's official resources and documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

01) How much does it cost to schedule GRE?

The GRE General Test fee for most locations worldwide is $220 (as of 2023-2024). This fee includes sending your scores to up to four graduate institutions of your choice.

Some additional costs to consider:

  • Rescheduling fee: $55
  • Late registration fee: $25
  • Additional score reports:$ 40 per recipient
  • Score review service: $50
02) How can I get the GRE fee waived?

ETS offers a Fee Reduction Program for eligible test-takers based on financial need, participation in national programs, or specific criteria (e.g., unemployment). Approved applicants may receive:

  • A 50% discount on the GRE General Test fee
  • Access to free official GRE prep materials
03) Can I use a calculator on the GRE?

Yes, but only a basic on-screen calculator is provided during the Quantitative Reasoning sections of the GRE. You cannot bring your own calculator to the test whether at home or at a center.

04) What is considered a good GRE score?

What qualifies as a "good" score depends on your target program, but generally:

  • 320+ (Verbal + Quantitative) is considered strong for competitive graduate programs.
  • 310–319 is good for many mid-tier universities.
  • 330+ is excellent and may strengthen your profile for top-tier institutions.

Always check the average GRE scores of admitted students at your desired schools.

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