GRE Examination Fee: Everything You Need to Know [2025]

Preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is an important step for students who wish to study abroad. As one of the most recognized standardized tests for university admissions globally, the GRE influences academic and career opportunities. However, to help candidates prepare appropriately, it is equally important to understand the financial aspects of taking the GRE, especially the fees associated with it. In this blog, we will discuss the details of the GRE examination fee. We’ll provide information on the registration processes, payment options, and ways to save money as you prepare for your test.

GRE Examination Fee (Breakdown)

The GRE is a standardized test accepted by most graduate schools in the United States and other countries. It evaluates your capacity for quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking. For most test-takers, the overall graduate record examination cost can be pricey. This is because the cost might include registration fees and expenses for preparatory study materials and coaching. 

Let’s break down the fees associated with taking the GRE exams. 

1. GRE Exams Registration Fees 

The GRE offers three types of tests, allowing candidates to choose based on their needs and convenience. Below is an overview of the registration fees for each test format:

i. GRE General Test

The GRE General Test is the most commonly taken exam version and assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It evaluates skills relevant to graduate school and is designed to reflect the type of thinking required in challenging graduate programs such as business and law. The fee for the GRE General Test in India is ₹22,550. This fee applies whether the test is taken at a physical test center or online from home. 

Note: GRE also examines your English proficiency and one way to enhance it is by practicing Duolingo English speaking test topics. If you’re planning to study abroad, improving your English skills will be useful for success. 

ii. GRE Subject Test

The GRE Subject Test measures your knowledge skill level in specific subject areas such as mathematics, psychology, or literature. The registration fee for this test is generally lower than that of the general test, costing ₹14,500 only. 

Also Read: GRE Syllabus

iii. GRE At Home Test

For those who prefer to take the exam from the comfort of their home or another safe location, the GRE at Home Test also costs ₹22,550. This option became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to be available for students who meet specific requirements. All at-home tests are monitored by a human proctor.

Here’s a summary of the fees for each of the three GRE examination fees:

GRE Test Format	Fees (INR)
GRE General Test	₹22,550
GRE Subject Test	₹14,500
GRE at Home Test	₹22,550

3. GRE Fees: Special Handling Requests

Apart from the standard GRE registration fee, candidates may encounter additional costs for specific services like rescheduling, changing the test center, etc. Below is a list of the special handling requests and their respective costs:

i. Rescheduling Fees

If you want to reschedule your GRE test, you must do so at least 4 days before your scheduled test date to get a partial refund which is 50% of the fee. Otherwise, if you don’t cancel your test in due time, you will lose all your fees.

ii. Changing Test Center Fees

An additional fee is required if you want to change your test center. For this process, you will incur a changing test center fee of ₹5,000. Since the registration fee itself is very high, it is advised to select the test center carefully.

iii. Additional Score Report Fees

If you want to send your GRE General Test scores to additional institutions after your test date, you can purchase Additional Score Reports (ASRs). Each additional score report will cost ₹2,900. It’s important to plan and consider which schools you want to send your scores to during registration, as this can help minimize additional costs later on.

iv. Score Review

If you believe that your analytical writing score was inaccurately assessed, you have the option to request a score review for a fee of ₹5,900. This service allows for a re-evaluation of your essays by a different rater. If your score changes as a result of this review, updated reports will be sent to the schools you selected at no additional charge.

v. Score Reinstatement

If you’ve previously canceled your GRE scores but later decide that you want them reinstated, there is a score reinstatement fee of ₹5,000. You may reinstate your scores by sending a reinstatement request to ETS within 60 days after your test date. This option is beneficial for candidates who may have initially felt dissatisfied with their performance but later reconsidered their decision.

vi. Returned Payment

If payment for any GRE-related fees fails or is returned (due to insufficient funds or incorrect account information), a returned payment fee of ₹2,900 will apply. To avoid incurring this extra charge, be sure to enter the correct information for payment.

Here’s a summary of additional special handling fees: 

Special Handling Request	Fees
Rescheduling	₹5,000
Changing Test Center	₹5,000
Additional Score Report	₹2,900
Score Review	₹5,900
Score Reinstatement	₹5,000
Returned Payment	₹2,900

Pro Tip: If you are planning to pursue an MBA, check out our guide on the best countries for an MBA which includes a list of top universities, their tuition fees, etc.

Fee Reduction/Waiver Program

The GRE examination fee program is designed to assist students who face financial challenges in accessing the GRE examination at a significantly reduced cost. To be eligible for this program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial hardship, which can include being from a low-income background or experiencing significant personal or family hardships.
• Unemployment: Individuals who are unemployed may also qualify for fee reductions.
• Underrepresented Groups: Students from underrepresented groups in graduate education may be eligible for assistance.

Recipients of this voucher pay ₹8,450 for the GRE General Test and ₹6,352 for the GRE Subject Test, which is 50% of the regular fee. Additionally, those registering for the General Test receive free access to valuable GRE test preparation materials worth ₹8,450, which include:

• POWERPREP PLUS® Online Practice Test 1 and Test 2 (₹3,388 value each)
• ScoreItNow! ™ Online Writing Practice (₹1,694 value)

NOTE: Unfortunately, Indian students residing in India are generally not eligible for this program. However, those studying or residing in the U.S. may benefit from these waivers. 

GRE Examination Fee: Modes of Payment

The GRE is a computer-based exam that accepts payment through credit/debit card, PayPal, or voucher. Understanding how to pay for your GRE examination fees is important to ensure a smooth registration process. 

Here are some of the convenient payment methods you can use to pay your GRE fee:

1. Debit and Credit Cards

The most common method of payment is through debit or credit cards. Accepted cards include Maestro credit and debit cards, Rupay credit and debit cards, VISA, and MasterCard. If paying by card, make sure your card allows international transactions, since your payment will be processed in USD.

2. UPI or Digital Wallet

In India, payments can also be made using UPI or Bharat QR through several digital wallets, including:

• Paytm
• PhonePe
• MobiKwik
• Airtel Money
• JioMoney
• FreeCharge
• Google Pay
• PayZapp
• Ola Money
• Amazon Pay

Conclusion

Understanding the GRE examination fee in India requires consideration of both standard registration costs and additional fees associated with special handling requests. Having a solid idea of the fee structure, add-on costs, and available payment methods will help avoid unexpected financial burdens. By preparing early and taking advantage of fee waivers for eligible candidates, you can focus more on performance rather than the costs.

If you are interested in studying abroad, check out our blog on the exams to study abroad and take your career to the next level.

FAQs