GRE Exam Eligibility Criteria: A Comprehensive Guide

The GRE (Graduate Record Exam) is a globally recognized test that plays a key role in the admission process for graduate programs. Prestigious universities like Oxford, Harvard, and Yale use it to evaluate applicants’ skills in areas like analytical thinking, reasoning, and quantitative problem-solving. Because the GRE is so competitive, it’s important to first understand if you meet the eligibility criteria before you start preparing. To make this easier, we’ve put together a clear guide outlining the GRE exam eligibility requirements. We’ve also included a list of top universities that accept GRE scores, so you know where you can apply.

GRE Exam: A General Overview

The GRE exam is an aptitude test commonly required for admission into graduate programs. It is widely accepted by law, business, and other postgraduate programs across the globe to evaluate a candidate’s critical thinking and analytical skills. Depending on the type of program you’re applying for, you can choose between two types of GRE exams: the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. The table below provides a detailed comparison of the different GRE exam fees: 

Exam Types	Description	Fees
GRE General Test	The GRE General Test is aimed at assessing a candidate’s analytical writing, verbal and quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking abilities. It is typically designed for students applying for law and business programs.	₹22,550
GRE Subject Test	The GRE Subject Test evaluates a candidate’s expertise in a particular given subject. There are three distinct subject exams – mathematics, physics, and psychology. It is designed for students who already have a background in these disciplines.	₹14,500

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GRE Exam Eligibility Criteria

The GRE exams are competitive tests taken by candidates from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. The GRE eligibility criteria are quite flexible, but having a clear understanding of them is essential before you register. Here are the key eligibility requirements you need to know:

i. Education Qualification: 

The GRE exams are open to candidates from all disciplines and educational levels. There are no strict educational prerequisites set by ETS (Educational Testing Service). However, most universities expect applicants to have completed their undergraduate degree or be in their final year during the time of application.

For the GRE Subject Test, a background in the chosen subject is required. This means candidates should have either completed an undergraduate program in a specific field or have fundamental work experience in that discipline.

ii. Age Limit:

There is no age restriction for taking the GRE. Candidates of any age can appear for the exam.

iii. Grades and Score:

There are no minimum cut-off marks or GPA requirements to appear for the GRE. Candidates with any academic grades or scores are eligible to take the test.

iv. Language:

The GRE is conducted in English, so fluency in English is essential. Candidates need strong comprehension and writing skills to perform well in the verbal reasoning and analytical writing sections.

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Documents Required for a GRE Exam

While the GRE eligibility criteria are flexible, ETS (Educational Testing Service) enforces strict rules regarding documentation. Proper identification is essential during both the registration process and on the day of the exam. Failing to provide the correct documents may lead to disqualification. Here’s a list of the documents you must carry at all times:

• Valid Passport that should include your name, signature, and photograph.
• A valid government ID proof that proves your citizenship. 

Note: Make sure your documents are not expired, since ETS only accepts valid documents.

GRE at Home Eligibility Criteria

In response to COVID-19, ETS introduced the GRE at Home option, allowing candidates to take the exam from home under strict monitoring. To ensure the integrity of the test, you must meet the following GRE exam eligibility criteria:

• Candidates must be dressed appropriately for the exam.
• The exam must be taken on a laptop or desktop computer with the webcam always on, giving a full view of the candidate and everything that is going on in the background.
• Candidates must not use headphones or earbuds during the exam.
• The external and internal communication would be done via a speaker.
• The room must be devoid of external noise.
• No notes must be taken on extra sheets.

Also Read: GRE Pattern

Eligibility Criteria for Specially-Abled Candidates

ETS is an all-inclusive board and conducts exams for specially-abled candidates as well. Candidates must meet the GRE exam eligibility criteria to appear for the exam. These criteria are as follows.

• Mention the disability they are going through.
• Provide medical and developmental records.
• List all the limitations the candidate might encounter during the examination.
• Specify the test equipment.

Universities Accepting a GRE Score

The GRE is a widely accepted aptitude test, recognized by over 1,300 business schools and universities globally for admissions into graduate and professional programs. Scoring well in the verbal, quantitative, and writing sections can give your application a significant edge. The table below lists some of the top universities and the average GRE scores typically expected for admission.

Universities	Verbal	Quantitative	Writing
California Institute of Technology	160	157	5.0
Stanford University	159	158	4.8
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	155	167	5.0
Duke University	160	160	4.5
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	158	159	5.3
University of Notre Dame	165	165	5.3
Johns Hopkins University	163	164	4.8
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	160	167	5.0
University of California, Berkeley	153 – 156	167	4.5
The University of Texas, Austin	155	165	4.0

Also Read: What is a good GRE score?

Conclusion

Understanding the GRE exam eligibility criteria is a vital step in preparing effectively for this important test. The GRE serves as a key standardized assessment for admission to top universities in India and worldwide. A good GRE score can significantly boost your chances of securing a place at your dream institution. This exam evaluates your abilities in verbal reasoning, analytical writing, and quantitative reasoning, providing a clear measure of your skills. To ensure comprehensive preparation, make use of the wide range of free and premium study materials available on the official GRE website.

Several universities also look for English proficiency exam scores. Check out our guide on TOEFL vs IELTS to find the most suitable exam for yourself.

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