Introduction
If you’re planning to take the GRE Exam in 2025, you’re one step closer to pursuing your dream of attending a top graduate program! The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test widely accepted by universities and business schools across the world. Whether you’re aiming for a Master’s, MBA, or even some law programs, the GRE is likely part of your journey.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about the exam — from exam fees and syllabus to exam dates in 2025 and eligibility. Plus, we’ll give you tips on how to prepare for the GRE exam and answer common FAQs to make sure you’re fully prepared.
Table of Contents
What is the GRE Exam?
The exam is a standardized test created and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is designed to measure the skills and knowledge needed for success in graduate school. The GRE General Test assesses your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing abilities.
The test is widely accepted by thousands of schools worldwide, including institutions in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and many others. While it’s commonly used for graduate admissions, some MBA programs and even law schools now accept the GRE as well.
Pro Tip: You can check the official ETS website for more information on the GRE General Test here.
GRE Exam Fees 2025
The exam fees can vary depending on your location. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with taking the GRE in different countries:
As of August 1, 2024, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) fees for candidates in India are as follows:
GRE Exam Fees in India:
| Test Type | Fee in INR |
|---|---|
| GRE General Test | ₹22,550 |
| GRE Subject Test | ₹14,500 |
These fees are standardized across all cities in India, including Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, and others.
Additional Fees:
- Rescheduling Fee: ₹5,000
- Test Center Change Fee: ₹5,000
- Additional Score Report: ₹2,900 per recipient
- Score Reinstatement Fee: ₹5,000
- Returned Payment Fee: ₹2,900
Additional fees include costs for rescheduling, changing test centers, and ordering additional score reports.
If the exam fee is too high, ETS offers fee waivers for eligible students. You can apply for fee reductions through the GRE Fee Reduction Program.
For more information on fees, check out the official GRE page on ETS: GRE Fee Information.
GRE Exam Dates 2025 For Every States Below
One of the benefits of the GRE is its flexibility. The exam is available year-round, and you can choose a test date that fits your schedule. Here’s a quick overview of what to know about exam dates in 2025:
New Delhi:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 06, 15, 17, 20, 31 |
| February 2025 | 07, 12, 20, 26, 28 |
| March 2025 | 07, 13, 21, 26, 30 |
Bengaluru:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 13, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 07, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30 |
Pune:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 07, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30 |
Chennai:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 13, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 31 |
Kolkata:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 24, 25, 27 |
Mumbai:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 07, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30 |
Ahmedabad:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 07, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 31 |
Chandigarh:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 06, 15, 17, 20, 31 |
| February 2025 | 07, 12, 20, 26, 28 |
| March 2025 | 07, 21, 26, 30 |
Cochin:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 13, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 07, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30 |
Hyderabad:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 02, 06, 07, 08, 09, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 |
| February 2025 | 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| March 2025 | 03, 04, 06, 07, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30 |
Jaipur:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 06, 15, 17, 20, 31 |
| February 2025 | 07, 12, 20, 26, 28 |
| March 2025 | 07, 13, 21, 26, 30 |
Lucknow:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 06, 13, 17, 20, 28 |
| February 2025 | 07, 11, 15, 20, 26, 28 |
| March 2025 | 07, 14, 21, 27, 30 |
Nagpur:
| Month | Available Dates |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 06, 15, 17, 20, 31 |
| February 2025 | 07, 12, 20, 26, 28 |
| March 2025 | 07, 13, 21, 26, 30 |
Important Notes:
- Booking in Advance: The availability of dates is subject to demand, so it’s recommended to book your GRE exam slot early.
- ETS Website: For real-time availability, visit the official ETS website (www.ets.org).
- Test Centers: Always confirm the test center’s address and operational status when scheduling your GRE exam.
Important: The computer-based GRE is available almost every day in most locations, while the paper-based GRE is only offered on selected dates. It’s recommended to register early to secure your preferred date.
To find the specific exam dates 2025 in your location, visit the official ETS Test Center Locator here.
GRE Exam Syllabus 2025
The exam syllabus is divided into three main sections:
- Verbal Reasoning:
- Measures your ability to understand and analyze written material.
- Includes text completion, sentence equivalence, and reading comprehension.
- Focuses on vocabulary, critical reasoning, and analytical skills.
- Quantitative Reasoning:
- Assesses your basic math skills, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- This section focuses on problem-solving and understanding quantitative information.
- Analytical Writing:
- Requires you to write two essays: one to analyze an issue and another to analyze an argument.
- This section tests your ability to present logical arguments and articulate complex ideas clearly.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each section:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 40 questions (2 sections) | 60 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 40 questions (2 sections) | 70 minutes |
| Analytical Writing | 2 tasks (1 section) | 60 minutes |
Pro Tip: Preparing for the GRE means working on both your vocabulary and math skills. You can use free resources like Khan Academy for math and Merriam-Webster for vocabulary!
GRE Exam Pattern 2025
The exam pattern is fairly straightforward. It’s a computer-based test in most parts of the world, though a paper-based format is available in regions where computer testing is not available.
1. Analytical Writing
This section measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills. Candidates are evaluated on their ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
| Tasks | Details |
|---|---|
| Analyze an Issue Task | Write an essay expressing your views on a given topic, supporting your position with examples and logic. |
| Analyze an Argument Task | Critique the reasoning of an argument presented in a brief passage. |
| Time | 30 minutes per task |
2. Verbal Reasoning
This section assesses reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary usage.
| Topics | Details |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Answer questions based on given passages. |
| Text Completion | Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate words or phrases. |
| Sentence Equivalence | Identify two correct answers that create a coherent sentence. |
| Skills Tested | – Analyzing written material – Synthesizing information – Understanding relationships between words and concepts |
| Time | 30 minutes per section (2 sections, each with 20 questions) |
3. Quantitative Reasoning
This section evaluates problem-solving abilities using basic mathematical concepts.
| Topics | Details |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | Properties of numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and rates. |
| Algebra | Simplifying expressions, solving equations, and inequalities. |
| Geometry | Properties of circles, triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, coordinate geometry, and three-dimensional geometry. |
| Data Analysis | Descriptive statistics, probability, distributions, and data interpretation. |
| Skills Tested | – Quantitative comparisons – Problem-solving – Data interpretation |
| Time | 35 minutes per section (2 sections, each with 20 questions) |
4. Unscored and Research Sections
- Unscored Section: May include questions from any of the three sections. It is not identified or scored.
- Research Section: Optional and may appear at the end of the test. It is also unscored.
Key Details
- Total Test Duration: ~3 hours and 45 minutes (including breaks).
- Scoring:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130–170 (1-point increments)
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170 (1-point increments)
- Analytical Writing: 0–6 (0.5-point increments)
Fun Fact: The GRE exam is section-level adaptive. This means the difficulty of the second section in both Verbal and Quantitative depends on your performance in the first section.
GRE Exam Eligibility 2025
The good news is that there are no strict eligibility criteria for taking the GRE. Anyone can register for the test, regardless of their educational background.
However, certain graduate programs may have their own eligibility requirements, such as a minimum GPA or specific undergraduate coursework. Be sure to check the requirements of the programs you’re applying to.
How to Prepare for the GRE Exam 2025
Preparing for the exam can be overwhelming, but with the right resources and study plan, you can ace the test! Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Create a Study Plan
- It’s essential to begin studying at least 3-6 months before your GRE test date.
- Break your study sessions into small chunks, covering one section at a time.
2. Use the Right Study Materials
- Official GRE Guide by ETS: This is the most reliable and accurate resource for GRE preparation.
- Online GRE Prep Courses: Platforms like Magoosh, Kaplan, and Princeton Review offer comprehensive courses, practice tests, and analytics to track your progress.
3. Take Practice Tests
- Taking full-length, timed practice tests is crucial to understanding the test format and managing your time on exam day.
- ETS offers two free practice tests via PowerPrep. You can access them here.
4. Focus on Weak Areas
- Identify your weak areas through practice tests and spend extra time strengthening those skills.
- Use tools like Khan Academy for Quantitative Reasoning and Vocabulary.com for Verbal Reasoning.
GRE Exam: Is It Tough?
The difficulty of the exam depends largely on your background and preparation. For STEM majors, the Quantitative section may be easier, while non-native English speakers may find the Verbal section more challenging. However, with consistent practice and proper time management, the GRE is conquerable.
Key Tip: Take timed practice tests to acclimate to the pressure and develop strategies for each section. The test’s adaptive nature means each section’s difficulty increases as you perform better, so preparation is key.
GRE Exam FAQs
1. What is the GRE exam?
The GRE exam is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate programs worldwide, measuring verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills.
2. GRE exam is for what purpose?
It helps universities assess your readiness for graduate-level academic work.
3. What is the GRE exam used for?
GRE scores are used for admission to Master’s, MBA, and sometimes law programs in countries like the United States, Canada, Germany, Australia, and more.
4. Is the GRE exam tough?
The GRE can be challenging, especially due to its adaptive nature. The Quantitative Reasoning section may be difficult for non-STEM students, while the Verbal section can be challenging for non-native English speakers. However, with consistent preparation, it is manageable.
5. GRE exam is for which country?
The GRE is accepted by universities and graduate programs in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, and many more.
6. When is the GRE exam 2025?
The GRE is conducted year-round, with flexible scheduling options at computer-based test centers. For paper-based tests, there are specific dates in February, June, and September.
7. How to prepare for the GRE exam?
Start your preparation at least 3-6 months in advance. Use official ETS materials, online prep courses, and take plenty of practice tests. Focus on improving your vocabulary, math skills, and time management.
8. How many times is the GRE exam conducted in a year?
The computer-based GRE is available year-round, while the paper-based GRE is conducted on select dates.
9. GRE exam means?
GRE stands for Graduate Record Examinations.
10. Why is the GRE exam required?
The GRE is required by many graduate programs to assess your critical thinking, analytical writing, and reasoning skills.
11. How long is the GRE exam?
The GRE exam lasts approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
12. Total marks of the GRE exam?
The total score for the GRE ranges from 260 to 340, excluding the Analytical Writing section, which is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6.
13. When is the GRE exam conducted?
The GRE is conducted year-round at computer-based test centers, and paper-based tests are available on specific dates.
14. What is the GRE exam for?
The GRE is used for admissions to graduate programs, business schools, and even some law schools globally.
15. Duration of the GRE exam?
The duration of the GRE exam is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
16. What to carry for the GRE exam?
You will need to bring a valid ID (usually a passport for international test-takers), your confirmation email, and any other required documents. Optional items include pencils, erasers, and snacks for the break times.
17. GRE exam for what?
The GRE exam is used as part of the admissions process for graduate programs, including Master’s, MBA, and some law programs.
18. What is the use of the GRE exam?
The GRE is used globally by universities to assess a candidate’s academic readiness and potential for success in graduate-level education.
19. Who can give the GRE exam?
Anyone interested in applying to graduate programs can take the GRE. There are no specific eligibility criteria imposed by ETS, but you should always check the requirements of the specific programs you’re applying to.
GRE Exam: What to Carry on Exam Day
It’s essential to be prepared on exam day to avoid any last-minute stress. Here’s a checklist of what to bring:
- Valid Government ID: For most international students, a passport is required as proof of identity.
- Confirmation Email: You’ll need to show this to enter the test center.
- Pencils and Erasers: Although the test is computer-based, you may want to take notes during your breaks.
- Snacks and Water: For the breaks, bring energy-boosting snacks and a bottle of water.
- Face Mask: Depending on the test center’s COVID-19 guidelines, you may need to wear a mask.
Tip: Double-check your test center’s requirements on the ETS website here.
GRE Exam Total Marks and Scoring
The GRE is scored on a scale of 260 to 340 for the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections combined. The Analytical Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6.
Here’s a breakdown of the scoring:
| Section | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 130–170 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 130–170 |
| Analytical Writing | 0–6 |
| Total Score | 260–340 |
The Analytical Writing section score is separate, and the Verbal and Quantitative sections are combined to give the total score.
Did you know? The average GRE score is 150 in Verbal, 153 in Quantitative, and about 3.5 in Analytical Writing.
What is the Purpose of the GRE Exam?
The GRE is used to assess a student’s readiness for graduate-level education. It helps universities quantitatively evaluate candidates from diverse educational backgrounds. While the GRE score alone won’t determine your admission, it plays a crucial role in the overall evaluation process.
Graduate programs use GRE scores to:
- Compare applicants from different universities and programs.
- Assess verbal and quantitative skills that are critical to academic success.
- Evaluate analytical writing abilities necessary for thesis-based graduate programs.
Conclusion
The GRE’s Exam 2025 plays a significant role in your application process for graduate programs across the globe. Whether you’re aiming for a Master’s degree, an MBA, or even certain law programs, understanding the syllabus, exam pattern, and preparing effectively is crucial to your success.
Remember, the key to acing the GRE is consistent practice, time management, and using the right study materials. Whether you’re using official ETS resources or online platforms like Magoosh or Kaplan, make sure you’re focusing on both your strengths and weaknesses.
Ready to take the plunge? Register for the exam and start your preparation today! For more tips, check out some of the best prep resources available, and don’t forget to share your own experiences or ask questions in the comments below. Good luck! READ MORE.