Preparing for grad school is like training for a marathon- timing and strategy matter just as much as stamina.
One question you’ll often hear is: How long are GRE scores valid?
Knowing the answer is like checking the expiration date on your running shoes- you want to make sure your gear (or scores) are still good when race day (application day) comes around.
Let’s explore everything about GRE score validity, how to check it, why scores expire, and how you can prep smartly with tools like EverTutor.
Think of your GRE scores like milk in the fridge- they’re fresh and useful only for a certain period. GRE scores have a “shelf life” of 5 years from the date you took the exam. Within this 5-year window, graduate schools will accept your scores as a valid reflection of your academic ability.
So whether you ask:
The answer is always: 5 years.
You can check your GRE scores by logging into your ETS account. There, you’ll see your test dates and score reports. Scores from tests taken within the last 5 years will be ready to send to universities.
If you’re unsure about what your GRE scores mean or where to apply, EverTutor’s UniSuggest helps by recommending universities that match your profile and scores. It guides you on whether you should retake the test or apply now, acting like a personalized admissions coach to maximize your chances.
Right after you finish the GRE, you’ll receive unofficial scores immediately on the screen for the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections. This quick feedback gives you an early idea of how you performed in these two parts.
However, the full, official GRE score report- which includes your Analytical Writing score along with the other sections- takes about 10 to 15 days to be processed and posted in your ETS account. This official report is what you’ll send to universities for your applications.
Your GRE scores are like a snapshot capturing your skills and knowledge at the exact moment you took the test. Just as a photograph becomes less accurate at showing how you look as you change and grow over time, your GRE scores may no longer fully reflect your current academic abilities years later. Because skills can improve or decline with practice, work, or further study, ETS sets a 5-year validity period to ensure that the scores schools see represent a recent and reliable measure of your readiness for graduate-level work.
The 5-year validity period gives you ample time to prepare, improve your scores if needed, and submit your applications. If your scores are approaching expiration, you can plan a “training boost” by scheduling a retake well before your application deadlines to ensure your scores remain valid.
Remember, your GRE score is not permanent — you can always improve it by retaking the exam. Here’s what you should know about retaking the GRE:
How EverTutor can support your GRE retake preparation:
Applying to grad schools is a lot like choosing the right marathon- you don’t just sign up for any race; you look for one that matches your current training, pace, and goals. Similarly, when your GRE scores are close to expiring or you’re unsure how competitive they are, it’s important to reassess where you stand and whether a retake might improve your chances.
This is where EverTutor’s UniSuggest becomes incredibly helpful. Think of it as your personal race coach- it analyzes your GRE scores, academic background, and preferences to recommend universities that are the best fit for your profile.
Whether you’re aiming high or just want to make sure your scores align with your target programs, UniSuggest helps you focus your efforts on schools where you have a realistic and strong chance of getting admitted- saving you time, stress, and uncertainty in the application process.
Your GRE scores are valid for 5 years- a decent window to prepare and apply, but only if you plan ahead. Think of EverTutor as your ultimate training partner, helping you build vocabulary, master question formats, plan university choices with UniSuggest, and take mock tests to track your progress.
If you want to get the most out of your GRE prep and keep your scores fresh and useful, EverTutor is here to help you run your grad school race with confidence.
It’s recommended to take the GRE at least 6 months before your application deadlines. This gives you time for score reporting, possible retakes, and application prep.
Absolutely. You can retake the GRE once every 21 days and up to five times in a rolling 12-month period. Many test-takers see score improvement after additional focused preparation.
Pro tip: EverTutor helps you prepare for your retake with personalized learning plans, vocabulary-building tools like Vocab Path, and 5 full-length mock tests that replicate real GRE conditions.
Yes, as long as your scores are still within the 5-year validity window at the time of application submission, they are considered valid. However, if you're cutting it close, consider retaking the test early to avoid last-minute stress.
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