How To Do GRE General Test Registration: Registration Date, Eligibility Criteria And Fees

Nearly 500,000 people register for the GRE General Test every year, marking it as a key step for those pursuing graduate studies. Yet, the registration process can feel like a maze of deadlines, fees, and test center options. Add the pressure of picking the perfect test date and worrying about your GRE score, and it’s easy to see why many feel overwhelmed from the start.

The reality is, navigating GRE registration isn’t always straightforward. You may struggle with choosing a convenient test center or worry about missing important deadlines. But don’t worry—by following some practical steps, you can avoid these common pitfalls and focus on what really matters: getting ready to take the GRE General Test and securing the scores you need for your future.

What Is The GRE Exam Eligibility 2024?

The GRE test is one of the most widely accepted exams for graduate and business school admissions. When it comes to eligibility, the GRE doesn’t impose strict requirements regarding age, education, or background, making it accessible to a broad range of test takers. However, understanding the basic guidelines and ensuring you’re prepared before registering for the GRE General or GRE Subject Tests is crucial. Familiarizing yourself with the eligibility criteria will help you navigate deadlines, test dates, and what to expect from the test-taking experience.

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Age Requirement	There is no age limit to register for the GRE test.
Educational Qualification	No specific qualifications are required. However, the GRE test is typically taken by prospective graduate applicants.
Test Types	GRE General Test or GRE Subject Tests.
Test Takers	Anyone, regardless of nationality or academic background, can take the GRE.
Number of Attempts	The GRE can be taken multiple times, but the test can only be retaken after 21 days from the previous test date.
Score Validity	GRE scores are valid for five years after the test date.
Reschedule/Cancel Policy	Test takers can reschedule or cancel their registration at least four days before the test date (10 days for subject tests).
Test Taken Previously	Previous GRE scores remain on your record, but only the best scores will be sent to schools.
Deadline	Applicants should register for the GRE well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

How To Do Registration For GRE General Test?

Getting ready for the GRE General Test can feel like an intimidating process, but registering doesn’t have to be one of the challenges. Whether you’re a prospective graduate student, business school applicant, or someone with an extensive background in a particular field, following the steps for GRE General Test registration will ensure you’re all set for test day. To make things easier, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the registration process smoothly.

1. Create an Account on ETS.org

Begin by visiting ETS.org and creating an account. This account is essential for scheduling your GRE General Test, viewing your test scores, and accessing various policies and procedures regarding test registration. Be ready to provide personal information like your name, address, undergraduate major, and passport details.

2. Choose Your Preferred Test Date and Location

Once your account is set up, select a preferred test date. Remember that the GRE is offered year-round, so finding a convenient time within the next 365 days should be easy. Make sure to check the test center availability before finalizing your selection. If you’re applying to graduate schools or business programs, plan ahead to meet admission deadlines.

3. Review the Test Registration Policies and Procedures

Before you complete the registration process, carefully read through the test registration policies and procedures, including any specific requirements for test takers with disabilities or health-related needs. ETS also offers a Bulletin Supplement for Test Takers to help you familiarize yourself with test-day expectations and rules.

4. Pay the Registration Fee

GRE registration requires a fee, which can be paid using a debit or credit card. If you’re approved for a GRE fee reduction (available for test takers who are unemployed within the past year or those requesting a voucher), you can apply during this stage. Fee waivers can also be requested for individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria.

5. Confirm and Print Your Registration Details

After payment, confirm your registration details and print the confirmation. Keep it safe, as you will need this information on test day. If necessary, you can cancel or reschedule your test up to four days before the scheduled date without incurring additional fees.

6. Test Preparation

Once registered, start preparing for the test using official ETS resources. These include free practice tests, question banks, and in-depth guides on how to improve your proficiency in the test’s various sections. Test preparation is key to a successful GRE performance and helps you feel confident on test day.

6 Important GRE Exam Day Tips

 By now, you’ve spent hours studying, understanding test registration policies, and following through with your preparation plan. To ensure everything goes smoothly on the day of your GRE General Test, here are six important tips to help you stay calm and focused.

1. Double-Check Your Test Center Location and Time

Before heading out, make sure you know the exact location of your test center and the time you need to arrive. Check your confirmation email or ETS account for the scheduled date and test center information. Arriving late could result in being denied entry, so plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early.

2. Bring the Necessary Documents

Make sure to carry a valid passport or other forms of identification that meet ETS guidelines. If you forget your ID, you won’t be allowed to take the test. Always have a printed copy of your test registration confirmation, as some centers might ask for it.

3. Dress Comfortably

Dress in layers to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the test. Test centers can vary in temperature, so wearing something that allows you to adjust accordingly will help you stay focused on the test.

4. Familiarize Yourself with Test Center Policies

GRE test centers have strict rules. Review the Bulletin Supplement for Test Takers to understand the policies about breaks, personal items, and the use of calculators. Knowing what to expect will help you avoid any unnecessary stress.

5. Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Well-Being

Get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam and eat a balanced breakfast. Avoid caffeine overload, as it could lead to jitteriness. During the test, if you start feeling anxious, take a deep breath and focus on the task at hand.

6. Be Ready for the Unexpected

If something goes wrong—like feeling unwell or running into tech issues at a computer-delivered test—inform the staff immediately. ETS also offers options for rescheduling if you cannot take the test for valid reasons, so don’t panic if things don’t go as planned.

Conclusion

In the end, registering for the GRE General Test is more about preparation than stress. The key lies in understanding the process, keeping track of deadlines, and staying informed about the various policies. It’s a task that may feel daunting at first, but once you get through the steps—creating an account, choosing your test date, and paying the fee—it’s just another milestone toward your academic journey.

Ultimately, the GRE is just one part of the broader picture. With proper planning, it’s manageable, and you’ll soon be able to focus on what truly matters: achieving the best possible score and moving closer to your graduate or business school goals. The journey might seem long, but each step is a move toward something bigger, and that’s what counts.

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