GRE Exam Dates : What is the best time to take the GRE in India?

Planning to take the GRE for your graduate studies abroad? You might be wondering when’s the best time to schedule your exam in India. It’s a common question many students face as they balance their current studies or work with preparing for this important test. Choosing the right exam date can feel tricky when you’re thinking about application deadlines and when you’ll be most ready.

This blog post will help you figure out the best time to take your GRE in India. We’ll look at different times of year to take the test and what to think about when picking your date. Whether you’ve just finished your degree or you’re working now, you’ll find information here to help you choose a test date that works well with your plans and situation. Let’s explore the GRE exam dates in India and find the timing that’s right for you.

GRE Exam Eligibility

The GRE General Test has no specific eligibility criteria set by ETS, the organization that conducts the test. Anyone can take the test regardless of age or educational background. However, candidates should check the eligibility requirements of the universities they plan to apply to, as these vary by program.

The GRE General Test is conducted year-round, and students usually take it as part of the admission process for graduate or business school. It is advisable for test-takers to ensure they meet the admission criteria of their chosen institutions before registering for the test.

When to take the GRE test?

It’s advisable to take the GRE at least three to four months before your application deadlines. GRE dates are available year-round, so choose a time that allows for retakes if needed. You can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times within a 12-month period.

To ensure success, give yourself enough time to prepare without compromising on quality. The computer-based GRE is the most common format, offering flexibility in scheduling, so plan early to avoid last-minute stress and maximize your performance.

When to Register for the GRE Test?

You should register for the GRE test at least 2 to 3 months before your desired test date, especially during peak application seasons. This allows flexibility for retakes if needed. Registering early ensures you secure your preferred test date and time at your chosen centre.

How to Register for the GRE Test at a Test Centre?

If you’re planning to take the GRE General Test at a test centre, follow these steps:

1. Create an ETS account on the official GRE website.
2. Log in and select “Register for the GRE General Test.”
3. Choose a convenient test centre and select your preferred date and time.
4. Complete the registration process by entering your personal details and submitting the required fee.
5. Confirm your registration by reviewing the details and receiving a confirmation email.

The test can be taken throughout the year, so plan your registration well in advance to secure your spot.

How to Register for the GRE Test at Home?

To register for the GRE at-home test, follow these steps:

1. Create an ETS account and log in.
2. Select “GRE at Home” from the available options.
3. Choose a date and time that fits your schedule, keeping in mind your application deadline.
4. Complete the registration process by entering your details and paying the fee.
5. Book your GRE by confirming your selection and receiving a confirmation email.

Make sure to schedule your test well in advance to meet your application deadlines and secure your preferred time for the GRE at-home exam.

How to Register for a GRE Subject Test?

To register for a GRE Subject Test, follow these steps:

1. Create an ETS account and log in.
2. Select “Take a GRE Subject Test” from the available options.
3. Choose your preferred test centre and check the available GRE Subject Test dates.
4. Select a test date to get your preferred slot and complete the registration by entering your details and paying the fee.
5. Confirm your registration and receive a confirmation email with your test details.

Ensure to register early as GRE Subject Test dates are limited throughout the year.

GRE Dates 2025 & Test Centres

Here is a table with the GRE Exam Dates for 2025 and the corresponding test centres in the selected cities across India. Keep in mind that GRE test centres are available year-round for the General Test and at specific times for the Subject Tests.

City	Exam Dates 2025	Test Centres
New Delhi	April 21 – May 4	Council for American Education, Defence Colony; Cyberstation CPS Global, Dwarka; Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, Gurugram
Bengaluru	April 21 – May 4	Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, Prestige Shantiniketan, Whitefield; I-Domain Technologies, Koramangala
Pune	April 21 – May 4	GRAD Dreams Education Consulting Pvt LTD, Bibwewadi; Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Bibwewadi
Chennai	April 21 – May 4	Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, Tambaram; Everonn Systems India Ltd, Nungambakkam
Kolkata	April 21 – May 4	Indexpo Corporation, Park Circus
Tirupati	April 21 – May 4	ANCONS International, Tirupati
Mumbai	April 21 – May 4	Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, Goregaon; Everonn Systems India Ltd, Andheri
Ahmedabad	April 21 – May 4	Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, Prahladnagar
Chandigarh	April 21 – May 4	Saint Kabir Public School, Sector 26
Cochin	April 21 – May 4	Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, Hotel Ruby Arena
Coimbatore	April 21 – May 4	ANCONS International, Sundaresa Layout
Patna	April 21 – May 4	Yet to be announced
Trivandrum	April 21 – May 4	Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd, KEK Towers
Vijayawada	April 21 – May 4	Yet to be announced

These dates correspond to the general availability for the GRE 2025. More specific dates and slots can be chosen when registering through the official ETS portal.

GRE Subject Test Dates

Unlike the GRE General Test, Subject Tests are only offered on paper and at designated test centres on specific dates. Not all subjects may be available at all test centres, so it’s important to check availability when registering. Here’s a table with the GRE Subject Test dates for 2025, organized by subject:

GRE Subject	Test Dates (2025)
Biology	April 12, October 25
Chemistry	April 12, October 25
Literature in English	April 12, October 25
Mathematics	April 12, October 25
Physics	April 12, October 25
Psychology	April 12, October 25

These dates are typically consistent from year to year, but it’s always best to check the official ETS website for the most up-to-date information.

How to choose a GRE exam date in India?

When choosing a GRE exam date in India, consider these key factors:

1. Application deadlines for your target programs
2. Your preparation timeline and readiness
3. Availability of test centres in your preferred location
4. Potential for retakes if needed
5. Your current academic or work commitments
6. Seasonal factors (e.g., weather, festivals) that might affect your performance
7. Time needed for score reporting (typically 10-15 days)
8. Your visa application process timeline
9. Any upcoming life events or personal commitments

Balance these elements to select a date that gives you enough preparation time, meets application deadlines, and allows for potential retakes. Book your preferred date early to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

How to Reschedule Your GRE Test Date?

To reschedule your GRE test date, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your ETS account.
2. Select “Reschedule” under your existing test appointment.
3. Choose a new GRE test date that suits you. It’s recommended to reschedule as early as possible to secure your preferred date.
4. Pay the rescheduling fee and confirm the change.
5. Receive a confirmation email with the updated details.

Make sure to reschedule as early as possible to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure you’re choosing a GRE test date that fits your preparation timeline.

How to Cancel Your GRE Exam Date?

To cancel your GRE exam date, log in to your ETS account and select “Cancel or Reschedule” under your test appointment. GRE rescheduling and cancellation policies require you to cancel or reschedule at least four days before your test date. If you cancel, you’ll receive a 50% refund of your registration fee.

The rescheduling fee is $50. Failure to cancel or reschedule within the required timeframe results in no refund. Make sure to act early to avoid losing your fee. Keep in mind that rescheduling and cancellation policies do not allow any changes after the days following your test date.

When should you retake the GRE?

You should retake the GRE General Test if your scores from the test taken previously don’t meet the requirements of your target programs. Ideally, retake the GRE after thoroughly reviewing weak areas.

 Ensure you have enough time to prepare before you schedule your GRE again. The test fee for retaking the GRE is the same as the initial registration fee, which is $228 in most locations. Plan your retake early to avoid application deadlines.

How to apply for GRE Accommodation?

To apply for GRE accommodation, follow these steps:

1. Create an ETS account and register for the GRE.
2. Complete the accommodations request form available on the ETS website.
3. Provide documentation that supports your need for accommodation, such as medical records or a doctor’s note.
4. Submit the form and documentation either online, by mail, or by fax.
5. ETS will review your request and notify you of the decision.

Be sure to apply for accommodations well in advance, as processing can take several weeks before your scheduled GRE test date.

What is a good GRE score?

A good GRE score depends on the programs you’re applying to, but generally, a score of 310 to 320 is considered competitive for most graduate schools. For top-tier programs, especially in fields like business or engineering, you may need a score above 325. In general, a good GRE score should align with the average scores of admitted students to your target schools.

It’s essential to check each program’s specific requirements to ensure your score falls within their accepted range. Additionally, excelling in one section can sometimes offset a slightly lower score in another.

Preparation tips for GRE

Here are some preparation tips for the GRE in a step-wise manner:

1. Understand the format: Familiarize yourself with the GRE’s structure, sections, and types of questions.
2. Set a study schedule: Allocate regular study time based on your exam date and personal pace.
3. Use official resources: Practice with ETS materials and sample questions.
4. Target weaknesses: Identify weaker areas and focus your preparation on improving them.
5. Take practice tests: Simulate test conditions to improve time management and accuracy.
6. Review thoroughly: Analyse mistakes in practice tests to avoid them during the actual exam.
7. Stay consistent: Regular, focused study sessions yield the best results.

Conclusion

Selecting the right GRE exam date in India is a personal decision that depends on your unique circumstances and goals. By considering factors such as application deadlines, your preparation level, and personal commitments, you can choose a date that sets you up for success. Remember, the best time to take the GRE is when you feel most prepared and confident. Whether you opt for a test date during the academic year or choose to focus on GRE preparation during summer break, the key is to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to achieve your target score.

With the flexible scheduling options available throughout the year, you can find a date that aligns perfectly with your graduate school aspirations. Take charge of your GRE journey, and use the above information to make an informed decision that puts you on the path to your desired graduate program.

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