The GRE stands for Graduate Record Examinations, and is also called the GRE General Test. It is a standardised test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is a key requirement for students who want to pursue Master’s degrees, MBA or JD degrees in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Singapore. As of 2026, the GRE format has been shortened and is designed for efficiency and precision in a fully digital set-up.
The GRE is a computer-adaptive test that lasts for one hour and 58 minutes. There is no negative marking and the candidate can navigate freely through the sections.
GRE: An Overview
| Exam Feature | Information (2026 Details) |
| Exam Name | GRE General Test (Shorter Version) |
| Conducted By | Educational Testing Service (ETS) |
| Format | Fully Digital; Section-Level Adaptive |
| Total Sections | 3: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning |
| Total Duration | 1 hour and 58 minutes (No scheduled breaks) |
| Total Questions | 54 questions + 1 Essay task |
| Scoring Scale | 260 – 340 (Section scale: 130 – 170); AWA: 0 – 6 |
| Marking Scheme | No negative marking for incorrect answers |
| Calculator Policy | On-screen calculator provided for Quantitative Reasoning |
| Mode of Exam | Online at test centers or GRE at Home (Proctored) |
| Standard Fee (India) | $220 (Approx. ₹22,550 including GST) |
| Frequency | Available year-round (Continuous basis) |
What is the GRE Exam?
- What is the GRE Exam?The GRE exam is a standardised test taken by graduates and working professionals to check their general readiness for advanced studies. The GRE is a measure of general skills such as Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. In 2026, it is accepted not only for traditional Master’s and PhD programs but also by top tier business schools and law schools.The exam is accessed through a secure browser at authorised GRE centres or through an “At Home” version that is monitored. It provides a level-playing field to applicants from different backgrounds. Important Summary about GRE:
- The GRE is administered globally by ETS.
- It tests high-level vocabulary, reading comprehension, and high-school-level mathematics.
- Scores are valid for 5 years, allowing for flexible planning.
The test is section-level adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the second section depends on your performance in the first.
GRE Exam Eligibility
The ETS does not set strict age or academic restrictions, but the test is intended for those pursuing post-undergraduate education.
| Category | Details |
| Age Requirement | No minimum or maximum age limit. |
| Education Level | Typically taken by those who have completed or are in the final year of an undergraduate degree. |
| Registration Process | Create an account on the official ETS website, select a date/location, and pay the fee. |
| Identification | For Indian students, a valid Passport is the only accepted primary ID. |
GRE Dates 2026
Unlike the SAT, the GRE does not have fixed national dates. You can choose almost any day of the year (Monday–Friday, and some Saturdays) depending on the availability of your local test center.
Pro Tip: It is recommended to register at least 45–60 days in advance for popular months like September and October (peak application season).
GRE Registration 2026
Registration for the GRE is a straightforward online process.
Steps to Register for GRE 2026:
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Create an ETS Account: Visit the official ETS website and set up a profile.
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Select Test Type: Choose “GRE General Test.”
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Find a Location & Date: Choose “Test Center” or “Home Edition,” then pick a date and time.
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Complete Background Info: Fill in details regarding your undergraduate major and intended graduate goals.
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Payment: Pay the $220 registration fee using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal.
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Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email; this acts as your appointment trigger.
GRE Exam Fee 2026
The fee for the GRE is consistent globally, with regional adjustments for taxes.
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Approximate Amount (INR)* |
| Standard Registration Fee | $220.00 | ₹18,480 |
| GST (for India) | Included in some portals | ₹4,070 |
| Total Standard Fee | $220.00 | ₹22,550 |
Digital GRE Exam Syllabus 2026
The syllabus focuses on logic and critical thinking rather than rote memorization.
| Section | Syllabus Topics |
| Analytical Writing | Analyze an Issue (Critical thinking and persuasive writing) |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Analysis |
GRE Digital Exam Pattern 2026
The 2026 GRE is a “Shorter GRE.” Here is the timing breakdown:
| GRE Exam Sections | Time Allocated | Number of Questions |
| Analytical Writing | 30 minutes | 1 Essay Task |
| Verbal Reasoning (2 Sections) | 41 minutes (Total) | 27 questions (12+15) |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 Sec) | 47 minutes (Total) | 27 questions (12+15) |
| Total | 118 minutes | 54 questions + 1 Essay |
GRE Score 2026
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Verbal & Quant: 130–170 each.
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AWA: 0–6.
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Total Score Range: 260–340.
What’s a Good GRE Score?
An average score is roughly 300–305. A score above 320 is considered “Good” for most competitive universities, while 330+ is “Excellent” for Ivy League and top-tier STEM programs.
Sending GRE Scores
On the day of the test, you can send your scores to four universities for free. If you choose to send them later, the cost is $35 per recipient. Scores are typically delivered to universities within 8–10 days of your test date.
GRE Preparation Strategy 2026
| Preparation Strategy | Description |
| 1. Diagnostic Test | Take a free PowerPrep test to see your baseline score. |
| 2. Vocabulary Building | Master high-frequency GRE words using flashcards. |
| 3. Math Refresh | Review high school geometry and data interpretation. |
| 4. Practice Timed Sets | Use the “Shorter GRE” format to build stamina. |
Best Books for GRE Exam 2026
| Resource | Description |
| The Official Guide to the GRE | The “Gold Standard” from ETS with real past questions. |
| Manhattan Prep 5 lb. Book | Best for high-volume Quantitative practice. |
| Kaplan GRE Prep Plus | Great for overall strategy and online resources. |
| Princeton Review | Excellent for Verbal and AWA templates. |
GRE Test Centres in India 2026
The GRE is conducted in major cities including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Pune. Testing is usually held at Prometric centers or specialized educational institutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many times can I take the GRE?
You can take it once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period.
Is the GRE harder than the GMAT?
The GRE Verbal is often considered more vocabulary-heavy, while the GMAT Quantitative section is usually viewed as more logic-intensive.
Do Law Schools really accept the GRE?
Yes, as of 2026, over 90% of ABA-accredited law schools in the US, including Harvard and Yale, accept the GRE.
Can I go back to questions I skipped?
Yes, you can navigate freely and change answers within the same section. Once a section is submitted, you cannot go back to it.
