GRE Exam: Full Form, Pattern, Syllabus, Eligibility, Preparation & Fees in India
The GRE exam is a standardized test that is recognized worldwide and conducted by ETS. The purpose of the test is to measure skills in analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning that are necessary for graduate-level education. It is a major requirement for admission in MS, MBA, and PhD programs not only in the USA but also in Canada, Europe, and other parts of the world. Besides grades, Indian students’ GRE results are a valuable tool for universities to assess students’ academic capability, and they are also considered during scholarship and funding decision-making. In 2026, the GRE will be even more important, as test duration is shorter, test dates are more flexible, and business schools are increasingly accepting test scores. If students plan ahead and get help from Global Degrees, they will be able to coordinate their GRE preparation to align with the timing of university applications and the requirements of different intakes.
Highlights of the GRE Exam 2026
| Particulars | Details |
| Full Exam Name | Graduate Record Examination |
| Short Form | GRE |
| Conducting Body | ETS (Educational Testing Service) |
| Official Website | https://www.ets.org/gre |
| Year Introduced | 1936 |
| Exam Duration (Updated) | 1 hour 58 minutes |
| Exam Purpose | Assesses reasoning ability, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills for graduate-level study |
| Most Popular For | MS and MBA programs in the USA, Canada, Europe, and other study destinations |
| Exam Format | Computer-based test with the option to review and change answers in most sections |
| Test Structure | Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing |
| Mode of Exam | Test center–based and GRE at Home |
| Question Distribution | Verbal Reasoning: 27 questions Quantitative Reasoning: 27 questions Analytical Writing: 1 essay task |
| Question Type | Multiple-choice questions and one essay task |
| Scoring System | Verbal and Quantitative sections scored from 130–170 Analytical Writing scored from 0–6 |
| GRE Exam Fees (India) | GRE General Test: INR 22,000 GRE Subject Test: INR 14,500 |
| GRE at Home Availability | Available for Indian students with live online proctoring |
| GRE Subject Tests | Offered in selected subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology |
| Test Centres in India | Available across multiple cities in over 40 locations |
| Result Declaration Time | 8 to 10 days after the test date |
| Score Validity | 5 years |
| Acceptance | Accepted by universities worldwide for MS, MBA, and PhD programs |
| GRE Support (India) | Phone: 1800-120-0371 Email: GRESupport4India@ets.org |
What Is the GRE Exam in India?
One of the frequently asked questions among students preparing for their master’s studies abroad is “What is the GRE exam in India?” The GRE is a standardized test that evaluates skills needed for graduate studies at the university level. The test checks verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills that universities believe are necessary to succeed in advanced studies. Originally, the GRE test was meant to help colleges assess students’ application files more objectively, since transcripts don’t reflect problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
This test is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), a well-known testing organization globally, which is responsible for several international assessments. GRE scores are considered valid for a variety of study programs, such as MS, MBA, or PhD courses in different fields like engineering, science, business, and social sciences. The GRE test is accepted by universities in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several European countries. For this reason, it is very important for Indian students to consider going abroad for their studies.
GRE Full Form
The GRE exam full form stands for Graduate Record Examination. The purpose of the exam is to evaluate the preparedness of students for graduate studies. “Graduate” in the title denotes studies beyond the bachelor’s degree, “Record” refers to the score that colleges use to evaluate applicants, and “Examination” signifies that it is a formal test. Since it is a test of aptitude, it assesses the reasoning, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills of candidates in a standardized way.
Types of GRE Exam
You can choose the appropriate GRE version based on your study objectives and the type of course you want to pursue. Different universities employ various GRE tests to evaluate students either on general academic skills or subject-specific knowledge. This is true for all study destinations around the world, including programs related to planning to study in Germany, where aptitude tests complement academic qualifications. Knowing in advance also enables students to plan effectively, similar to finding out the GRE exam fees prior to test registration.
GRE Exam Types Overview
| Aspect | GRE General Test | GRE Subject Test |
| Primary Focus | Measures overall graduate-level aptitude | Measures subject-specific academic depth |
| Skills Assessed | Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing | Advanced knowledge in a single discipline |
| Purpose | Evaluates readiness for a wide range of graduate programs | Confirms expertise for specialized or research-based courses |
| Main Sections / Subjects | Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing | Mathematics, Physics, Psychology |
| Typical Applicants | MS, MBA, and most PhD candidates | Applicants to highly specialized graduate programs |
| Test Duration | 1 hour 58 minutes | Mathematics: 2 hours 50 minutes Physics: 2 hours Psychology: 2 hours |
| When It Is Required | Required by most universities worldwide | Required only by select universities and programs |
Whatis the GRE Exam Eligibility 2026?
Many students mistakenly think that eligibility for an exam and rules for admission to a university are one and the same thing, whereas actually, they have different purposes. GRE exam eligibility is purposely made to be flexible because ETS envisages candidates taking the test based on their own academic goals rather than being subjected to entry conditions that are very strict. Thus, students with different educational backgrounds can easily plan their postgraduate studies abroad without being subjected to unnecessary restrictions.
- Age Criteria: You can take the GRE test at any age you want. There is no minimum or maximum age limit.
- Educational Qualification: ETS has not set any mandatory academic requirements, though the majority of the test-takers are either graduates or students in their final year.
- Identity Requirement: It is compulsory to have a valid, original passport for registration as well as for identity verification on the exam day.
Students generally turn to Global Degrees study abroad consultants in Kochi for advice on how to synchronize GRE preparation with application deadlines.
GRE Registration 2026: Step-by-Step Process
There are several ways through which students may register for the GRE; however, online registration is by far the most popular method. ETS even permits registration by phone, mail, or fax, yet essentially, most test-takers find digital registration to be the fastest and most convenient. By finishing registration early, one pretty much guarantees their preferred test day and location.
- Register on the official website by creating an ETS account using your personal and passport data.
- Decide on the type of GRE you wish to take, the General Test or a Subject Test.
- Confirm your email, and double-check your country and time zone.
- Pick a test date, a test center, or opt for GRE at Home.
- Double-check all information before making the payment.
- Register entirely by settling the fee for the GRE exam.
Following this procedure, your test slot for 2026 will be secured successfully.
GRE Exam Fees in India 2026
The GRE exam registration fee in India is established by ETS and is the same for both test center and GRE at home options. The base price alone covers the exam, but a lot of candidates end up spending more as a result of rescheduling or sending extra score reports. Moreover, knowing the total price in advance enables students to organize their finances better and not miss their application deadlines. The GRE exam registration fee is the main cost that should be taken into account; however, one should not forget about possible add-on charges.
GRE Exam Fees Structure for Indian Students
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) | Details |
| GRE General Test (Base Fee) | 22,000 | Mandatory registration cost |
| GRE Subject Test | 14,500 | Applies to subject-specific exams |
| Rescheduling Charge | 5,000 | If the test date is changed within the allowed window |
| Additional Score Report | 2,900 | Per the university, after the first four free reports |
| Suggested Safe Budget | ~30,000 | Buffer for one reschedule and one extra report |
Planning aside from the base fee helps keep your test and application timeline on track.
GRE Exam Dates 2026
The GRE exam in India is available throughout the year. Students have the flexibility to decide on the test dates depending on university application deadlines and when they feel ready for the test. ETS regularly opens test slots at physical test centers as well as for the GRE at Home, giving candidates many options each month. One can take the GRE up to five times within a rolling 12-month period. Plus, a 21-day waiting period after one attempt is required before taking the test again. It is a good idea to book the seats in advance, especially during the peak intake seasons, so that you can get the dates and locations you prefer.
GRE Exam 2026 Dates in India (City-Wise Overview)
| City | Test Availability | Months Covered | Typical Exam Dates |
| Delhi NCR | Multiple test centers | January–February 2026 | Early, mid, and late month slots available |
| Chennai | Multiple test centers | January–February 2026 | Regular weekday and weekend dates |
| Bengaluru | Multiple test centers | January–February 2026 | Frequent slots across the month |
| Mumbai | Multiple test centers | January–February 2026 | Consistent availability throughout |
Note: GRE exam dates are available on several days throughout the month, and test center-specific availability may differ. If candidates want to have enough time for the score reporting process and if they decide to take the test again, they should make reservations two to three months ahead of the university application deadlines.
GRE Test Centres in India
While signing up for the GRE, students have the freedom to pick a test centre that is not only convenient for them but also fits well with their travel plans. There are several ETS-authorised testing locations in major cities across India where the GRE exam is offered. This way, students from different parts of the country get equal opportunities to take the test. It is better to reserve tickets at least a few days in advance to get the first choice of spots since not all cities have the same number of available exam centres.
List of GRE Test Centres in India
| Test Centre Name | City |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited | Ahmedabad |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited | Bengaluru |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited | Chennai |
| Cyberstation | New Delhi |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited | Gurgaon |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited (ITI centre) | Hyderabad |
| Indexpo Corporation | Kolkata |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited | Mumbai |
| GRAD Dreams Education Consulting Private Limited | Pune |
| Prometric Testing Private Limited | Trivandrum |
| Exuberant Technologies Private Limited | Mysore |
| ANCONS International | Coimbatore |
| Saint Kabir Public School | Chandigarh |
| IPEM (Institute of Professional Excellence in Management) | Allahabad |
Note: The test centre location and available dates will be given to you during the registration process at the ETS website. So, before you pay the amount for your test, it is better to get the details of the test centre.
GRE Exam Pattern 2026
The newly updated GRE exam pattern is a bit shorter, but it still tests the main skills necessary for graduate-level education. The GRE General Test is a tool for evaluating one’s academic preparedness through three major sections that emphasize reasoning, analysis, and problem-solving, thus making it a perfect fit for students planning to study in USA or any other foreign country.
- Analytical Writing has only one task, “Analyze an Issue”, for which you are allotted 30 minutes. It gauges your ability to think critically, develop ideas, and communicate clearly in writing; the score ranges from 0 to 6.
- Verbal Reasoning is made up of about 27 questions, and the areas tested include reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence. This segment assesses one’s ability to use vocabulary, understand context, and logically reason, and the mark is set between 130 and 170.
- Quantitative Reasoning consists of roughly 27 questions that primarily focus on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Hence, it measures both mathematical and problem-solving skills; the score ranges from 130 to 170.
Certain candidates may face an unscored experimental section that ETS uses for research purposes.
What is the GRE Exam Syllabus 2026?
The GRE exam syllabus is a list that shows the detailed topics an aspirant should cover while preparing for each section of the GRE General Test. It is quite different from the exam pattern that reflects the structure and scoring of the test. The syllabus tells about the topics and skills that are tested. A good understanding of these areas would help students come up with a better preparation plan and highlight the most important topics. The syllabus here is for the GRE General Test, which is the main requirement for most MS and MBA programs worldwide.
GRE General Test Syllabus (Topic-Wise)
| Section | Topics You Need to Prepare |
| Analytical Writing | Issue analysis, idea development, logical organization, clarity of arguments, and coherent academic writing |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence, vocabulary in context, sentence structure, verb tense, modifiers, parallelism, idioms, pronoun usage, and subject–verb agreement |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Arithmetic concepts, percentages, ratios and proportions, exponents and roots, algebraic expressions, linear equations, geometry topics such as lines, angles, triangles, circles, quadrilaterals, and basic data interpretation |
Rather than mere memorization, this syllabus is focused on the understanding and application of concepts, as well as the development of reasoning skills; thus, targeted practice becomes a must.
GRE Result 2026
Usually, GRE results are announced within 10 to 15 days after the test date. After they are published, the results are available through the test taker’s ETS account and can be checked online anytime. Students appearing for the GRE exam in India can benefit from digital score reporting, which makes it easier to demonstrate the results to different universities and institutions during the application phase.
How to Check GRE Result Online
- Go to the official GRE page on the ETS website.
- Log in with your ETS-registered user credentials.
- Find the score area related to your test appointment.
- Check your GRE score and print it out if necessary.
The official score reports will show not only the number of points per section, but also the overall results. You can send them directly to the universities of your choice via the ETS portal.
GRE Exam Preparation Tips for Indian Students
Highly effective GRE exam preparation in India is anchored on a thorough understanding of the test pattern combined with a well-organized study plan. Implementing specific strategies for each section not only yields better results but also helps avoid panic at the last minute.
- Know What the Exam is About First: Get to know the different sections, types of questions, and the scoring system well ahead of your preparation.
- Make a Reasonable Study Plan: Based on your timetable and desired score, plan your study in such a way that you can meet your daily and weekly targets.
- Study Each Section Thoroughly: Separate your focus on Quant concepts, Verbal reading and vocabulary, and some time allotted for Analytical Writing practice.
- Do Mock Tests Frequently: Mocks of the entire length show how prepared you are, help you get faster, and point out weaknesses.
- Increase Vocabulary Step by Step: Instead of rote learning, try associating the words with their use and keep on revising them.
- Use Time Wisely: Practise under time constraints and determine the best course of action to tackle a difficult problem without overburdening yourself.
There are many aspirants who also get in touch with Study Abroad Consultants in Calicut so that they can get GRE preparation synchronized with their application submission plans.
Conclusion
For Indian students, the GRE exam is likely to remain one of the key requirements to get admission in a postgraduate program abroad. It is used mostly for MS, MBA, and PhD programs. This is because, apart from grades, it enables universities to evaluate students’ academic potential and to provide a universal measure to compare applicants of diverse cultural backgrounds. Students who figure out the test format, the areas covered, and the exam cost in advance will be able to plan their preparation effectively, avoid unnecessary expenses, and avoid last-minute pressure during the application process.
It is equally significant that while preparing for the GRE, students plan their time in each subject according to the deadlines of the respective university. If you begin preparing early, you will have extra time to enhance your score and retake the test if necessary, plus you will also be able to keep the application process on schedule. The first time around, it might all be quite a bit for a newbie, but having a clear strategy and proper guidance makes things doable. If you are looking for professional assistance with exam planning, timelines, and study abroad decisions, Global Degrees is the right place to get the help you need and continue your journey with confidence and clarity.
FAQs
Not necessarily. Nowadays, lots of universities have gone GRE-optional; however, submitting a good GRE score may still enhance your application for very selective programs.
Definitely. A strong GRE score serves as a great backing to a lesser academic record, as you demonstrate through it the talents and skills of analysis and reasoning that are highly appreciated by admission officers.
The majority of universities consider the highest score submitted, without taking into account how many times the test was taken, unless a program explicitly states otherwise.
Getting coaching is not compulsory. There are plenty of students who exploit only the resources of self-study to accomplish great results, provided that they are following a well-organized plan together with regular practice.
GRE on its own will not influence visa decisions, but it may indirectly contribute to obtaining a visa if it helps secure university admissions and scholarships.
Global Degrees also helps students with university shortlisting, application strategy, paperwork planning, and getting test scores in line with admission goals.
Definitely. Global Degrees analyzes your academic profile and targets universities to give you the best advice on whether submitting a GRE score can be beneficial for your application.
Global Degrees
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