The GRE at Home is the same official GRE General Test offered by ETS, but you take it on your personal computer instead of at a test center. Here's why many students prefer this option:

• 24/7 scheduling: You can take it anytime, even during off-hours.
• Identical format and scoring: Same sections, same difficulty, same score validity.
• Accepted worldwide: All institutions that accept GRE scores will accept GRE at Home scores.
• Human proctoring via webcam: A live proctor monitors your test to ensure fairness.

It’s designed for flexibility, especially useful if you live far from a test center or prefer a familiar environment for high-stakes exams.

To take the GRE at Home, your setup must meet specific criteria to maintain test security and performance quality.

01. Equipment You’ll Need

• Computer: You must use a desktop or laptop with Windows 10/8 or macOS 10.5+. Tablets and Chromebooks are not allowed.
• Browser: Chrome or Firefox are required. Safari and other browsers are not compatible with the test software.
• Camera: You need a built-in or external webcam capable of showing a 360° view of your room.
• Audio: Use internal or external microphones and speakers. Headphones, earbuds, or anything covering your ears are prohibited.
• Software: You must download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser. Also, run the ProctorU system check in advance to ensure everything is compatible.
• Internet: A stable and fast internet connection is crucial. Disconnect unnecessary devices from your network to prevent lags or interruptions.

02. Your Testing Environment

Your room should be quiet, well-lit, and private. Here's what that means:

• Be completely alone in the room.
• Close the door, and make sure no one can enter during the test.
• Desk surface should be clear of books, phones, papers, or any other items.
• No food or drinks are allowed during the test.
• Sit on a regular chair—you can’t sit on a couch, bed, or recliner.
• Make sure your webcam shows your face, ears, and the door to the room.

This setup ensures test fairness and avoids any risk of score cancellation.

03. Rules for Note-Taking

Unlike at a test center where you can use scratch paper, at home you’re limited to:

• A small whiteboard with an erasable marker, or
• A sheet of paper inside a transparent plastic sleeve, also with an erasable marker

Traditional notebooks, loose paper, or pens and pencils are not allowed. After the test, you’ll be asked to erase your notes on camera.

Know more from Official ETS Source Here.

Let’s walk through a typical test day to reduce surprises:

1. Log in early: Arrive at your computer 15–30 minutes before the test. Use the ETS link in your confirmation email.
2. Check-in with proctor: Show your government-issued ID (passport is preferred), do a room scan, and complete a system check.
3. Launch the test: The proctor will guide you to start the exam using the secure browser.
4. The sections include:
   
   • Analytical Writing: 1 essay (30 minutes)
   • Verbal Reasoning: 2 sections
   • Quantitative Reasoning: 2 sections

Total test time: about 1 hour and 58 minutes. There are no scheduled breaks, and leaving your seat is not allowed.

5. Wrap-up: You’ll see unofficial Verbal and Quant scores immediately. You'll then erase your notes in front of the camera.‍
6. Score submission: Choose up to four schools to receive your scores at no extra cost.

Success in the GRE at Home depends on both preparation and mindset. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Use the official GRE practice tests to get familiar with the on-screen format.
• Practice using a whiteboard or the allowed note-taking setup to simulate real testing conditions.
• Take full-length mock exams during the same time of day as your real test to build stamina.
• Do a test-day simulation: Dress appropriately, prepare your room, and have your ID ready. Run the equipment check one more time the day before.
• Minimize distractions: Inform everyone at home, silence all notifications, and disable any auto-updating or background apps on your computer.‍
• During the test, avoid looking around, muttering, or anything that could seem suspicious on camera. If you need help, speak directly to the proctor.

The cost structure is the same as for test-center GREs:

• Test fee: $220 USD (subject to change by country)
• Reschedule fee: $50 if done at least 4 days in advance
• Cancellation: Also allowed if done in advance, with partial refund

Remember, test prep services, score reports beyond the free four, and sending additional scores also incur separate fees.

EverTutor is a trusted GRE prep platform designed especially for today’s digital-first test-takers. With EverTutor, you can:

• Customize your study plan: Focus on what matters most to you
• Simulate real GRE at home tests: Practice with authentic environments
• Get instant feedback: Identify and fix weak spots fast
• Track progress easily: Know exactly how close you are to your target score

Whether you're just starting or retaking the GRE for a better score, EverTutor helps you study smart, not just hard.