How to Register for the GRE Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide

Registering for the GRE exam is an important first step in your GRE preparation journey. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the registration process, important deadlines, and tips to ensure a smooth registration experience.

1. Create an ETS Account

The first step in registering for the GRE is to create an account with ETS (Educational Testing Service), the organization that administers the GRE. Here's how to get started:

  • Visit the ETS GRE website: Go to the official GRE website (www.ets.org/gre) and click on the "Register for the GRE" button.
  • Sign Up: If you don’t already have an ETS account, click on “Create an Account” and provide your personal information, including your name, date of birth, contact details, and educational background.
  • Set Up Your Profile: Once your account is created, you’ll need to complete your profile, which includes selecting your preferred test dates and locations.

Creating an ETS account is free, and it allows you to access your test scores, register for the exam, and manage your GRE-related activities.

2. Choose Your Test Date and Location

Once your account is set up, you can proceed with choosing your test date and location. Here’s what you need to do:

Tip 1: Test Dates

The GRE is offered year-round at designated test centers worldwide. You can take the test on any available date that suits your schedule, but keep in mind that spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak testing periods (e.g., before application deadlines for graduate schools).

Tip 2: Test Locations

Choose a test center that’s convenient for you. During the registration process, you will be able to search for test centers in your area and select the one closest to you.

Tip 3: Plan Ahead

Be sure to plan your registration well in advance. Some test centers may have limited availability, and registering early will help ensure that you get your preferred date and location.

3. Register for the GRE Exam

Once you’ve chosen your test date and location, you can officially register for the GRE exam. Here’s how to complete the registration process:

  • Login to Your ETS Account: Go to the ETS GRE website and log in to your account.
  • Select Your Test: Choose the GRE General Test and confirm your test date and location.
  • Provide Payment Information: The GRE costs $205 (subject to change, so check the current fee on the ETS website). You can pay using a credit card, debit card, or through PayPal. Be sure to review the payment information before submitting.
  • Review and Confirm: After entering your payment details, review your registration details, including the test date, location, and payment information. Once confirmed, submit your registration.

After completing the registration, you will receive a confirmation email with your test details, including the test center address, date, and time. Be sure to save this confirmation for reference.

4. Pay the GRE Exam Fee

The GRE exam fee is $205, and it can be paid through credit card, debit card, or PayPal during the registration process. Keep in mind that:

  • The registration fee covers the cost of the test, as well as sending your scores to up to four graduate programs or business schools.
  • If you wish to send your scores to additional schools, there is a fee of $27 per recipient.
  • If you need to reschedule your test, the fee for rescheduling is $50. The fee to change your test center location is also $50.

Be sure to double-check all the payment information before submitting your payment to avoid delays in your registration process.

5. Receive Your Confirmation Email

After you complete your registration and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email from ETS with your test details. This email will include:

  • Your test center location and address
  • Your test date and time
  • Instructions for test day

It’s important to keep this email safe and refer to it on test day. You will need to bring a valid ID and your confirmation information to the test center.

6. Rescheduling or Cancelling Your GRE Test

If you need to reschedule or cancel your GRE test, you can do so through your ETS account. However, keep in mind the following guidelines:

  • Rescheduling: You can reschedule your test up to four days before your original test date. There is a $50 fee for rescheduling.
  • Cancelling: You can cancel your test up to four days before the scheduled date. You will receive a partial refund (the amount refunded depends on when you cancel).

Make sure to reschedule or cancel as soon as possible to avoid additional fees and ensure that you’re prepared for the test.

7. Important Deadlines

It’s important to be aware of any deadlines related to GRE registration, especially if you are applying to graduate programs that have specific application deadlines. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Apply Early: Graduate programs often have application deadlines in the fall, so be sure to register for the GRE well in advance to allow time for score reporting.
  • Late Registration: ETS offers late registration for an additional fee of $25, but it’s best to avoid this by registering early.

Check the deadlines for both GRE registration and the programs you are applying to, and make sure to register well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.

8. Conclusion

Registering for the GRE is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to plan ahead and follow the necessary steps to ensure a smooth experience. By creating an ETS account, selecting your test date and location, and submitting your registration, you’ll be well on your way to taking the GRE. Be sure to keep your confirmation details handy, and don’t forget to prepare for test day!