GRE® Test Dates 2023-2024
The GRE is offered year-round. Get advice on when to register and take the GRE, as well as tips for taking the test.
GRE Registration Requirements
The requirements to register for the GRE state that you must:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Pay the test fee.
You can take the GRE every 21 days, but you can only take the GRE a total of 5 times within 365 days. This registration rule applies regardless of whether or not you canceled scores from a previous test.
How Much Does it Cost to Register for the GRE?
Most GRE test-takers must pay around $220 to register for the GRE. In some places such as in Australia, China, India, Nigeria, and Turkey, the registration fee may vary slightly.
You can register for the GRE up to 12 months in advance, or within one day of your desired test date. The longer you wait to register for the GRE, the fewer available seats there may be available for you. If you wait until the day before your desired GRE test date to schedule your exam appointment, you run the risk of there not being a seat available for you. Plus, you will have to pay a $20 late registration fee.
How Much Time Do You Need to Study for the GRE?
How much time you should dedicate to studying for the GRE depends on your current abilities, target GRE score, and your availability. If you have free time to spare and have succeeded on a GRE practice test already, you may not need a full 3 months to study for the GRE.
However, if you feel uncertain about your abilities right now, and don’t have a ton of free time, you should plan to study for at least 3 months. This will give you plenty of time to flesh out a comprehensive study schedule that fits within your existing lifestyle, and will give you ample time to hit your target score on the GRE.
Rescheduling and Canceling your GRE Test Date
If you need to reschedule or cancel your GRE test date for any reason, you should do so as soon as possible. Regardless of when you want to reschedule your GRE test date for, expect to pay a $50 rescheduling fee.
If you cancel your GRE appointment at least four days before your test date, you'll get back half of the money you paid to register for the test. But if you cancel after those four days, you won't get any money back – the whole fee will be kept.
When to Take the GRE
Figure out when the right time for you to take the GRE.
Register for the GRE
Read our GRE registration guide so you don’t run into any surprises during the process.
GRE Test Day Tips
Get our expert's top tips for GRE test-takers on exam day.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRE Test Dates
Can you cancel your GRE test date?
Yes, you can cancel your GRE test. Just make sure to do it at least 4 days before your scheduled test. If you cancel within those 4 days, you'll get half of your fee back. But if it's after those 4 days, you won't get any money back – the whole fee will be kept.
Can you change your GRE test date?
Yes, you can switch your GRE test date. Just remember, you can do this up to 7 days before your planned test. But if you change it within 7 days of the test, there's a $50 fee.
What month is the best time to take the GRE?
There isn't a "best" month to take the GRE because the test difficulty is the same throughout the year. However, when picking a date, consider:
- Your schedule. When can you focus on GRE studying? If you're busy during the winter and spring, summer or fall may be better.
- Testing centers. Some centers are busier than others. Check ahead for availability where and when you want to take the GRE.
- Your budget. Can you afford the registration fee for the GRE right now? Most GRE test takers spend more than just the registration fee to take the exam, so consider the cost of GRE prep, as well.
Are there any fees associated with the GRE?
Yes, there is a fee to register for the GRE, and depending on how close you are to exam day, there can be an additional late fee added to your registration fee, and to reschedule or cancel your appointment.
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