The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the most widely accepted standardized tests for students applying to graduate schools, business programs, and PhD programs worldwide. While preparing for the GRE, it is essential to understand the fees associated with the test, including registration costs, additional score reporting fees, rescheduling charges, and fee waivers.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of GRE fees to help students plan their budget effectively.
GRE Exam Registration Fees (General Test & Subject Test)
The cost of the GRE exam varies based on the test type and the country where it is taken.
📌 GRE General Test Fees by Country
| Country/Region | GRE General Test Fee (USD) | Approx. INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $220 | ₹18,500 |
| India | $228 | ₹19,200 |
| Australia | $220 | ₹18,500 |
| China | $231 | ₹19,500 |
| Other Countries | $220 - $240 | ₹18,500 - ₹20,000 |
📌 GRE Subject Test Fees
✔ The GRE Subject Test fee is $150 (₹12,500) worldwide.
✔ Subject tests are available for Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
💡 Why It Matters? Understanding the registration fees helps you plan your expenses in advance and avoid last-minute financial stress.
Additional GRE Fees (Rescheduling, Score Reports, and More)
Aside from the registration fee, students may need to pay for rescheduling, score reports, and other additional services.
📌 GRE Additional Fees & Services
| Service | Fee (USD) | Approx. INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Rescheduling Fee (U.S., India, China) | $50 | ₹4,200 |
| Rescheduling Fee (Other Countries) | $50 | ₹4,200 |
| Changing Test Center Location | $50 | ₹4,200 |
| Additional Score Report (Per Institution) | $30 | ₹2,500 |
| Score Reinstatement (If Canceled) | $50 | ₹4,200 |
| GRE Subject Test Rescheduling | $50 | ₹4,200 |
💡 Pro Tip: Rescheduling fees can add up quickly, so make sure to book your GRE test on a date you’re confident about to avoid extra charges.
GRE Fee Waivers & Financial Assistance
ETS, the organization that conducts the GRE, offers a GRE Fee Reduction Program for students who need financial assistance.
📌 Eligibility for GRE Fee Waiver
✔ Low-income students (Must provide proof of financial need).
✔ Students receiving financial aid (As per their university or government financial aid programs).
✔ Unemployed individuals.
📌 What Does a GRE Fee Waiver Cover?
✔ 50% off the GRE General Test registration fee.
✔ Free GRE preparation materials (ETS PowerPrep Plus Practice Tests).
✔ 50% off GRE Subject Test fees.
💡 How to Apply for a Fee Waiver?
- Submit an official request with proof of financial need to ETS.
- Once approved, ETS provides a GRE Fee Reduction Voucher for discounted registration.
💡 Why It Matters? If you qualify for a GRE fee waiver, you can save up to $114 (₹9,600) on registration costs.
GRE Payment Methods & Refund Policy
Accepted Payment Methods for GRE Fees
ETS accepts payments through:
✔ Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB.
✔ PayPal: Available in most countries.
✔ E-Check (U.S. Only): Electronic Check payments.
✔ Money Order/Western Union: Available in selected regions.
📌 Can You Get a Refund for GRE Fees?
✔ If you cancel your GRE test more than four days before the test date, ETS provides a 50% refund of the test fee.
✔ If you cancel less than four days before the test date, no refund is given.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about taking the GRE, consider rescheduling instead of canceling to avoid losing money.
GRE Retake Fees & Policies
✔ You can retake the GRE General Test every 21 days, up to 5 times a year.
✔ The GRE retake fee is the same as the initial registration fee ($220 - $231).
✔ ETS does not offer discounts on retakes.
📌 Should You Retake the GRE?
- If your score is below the average requirement of your target university, a retake might be worth it.
- Many top universities consider only your highest score, but some average multiple scores.
- Use PowerPrep Practice Tests to determine if you can improve your score before retaking.
💡 Pro Tip: If your first GRE attempt was close to your target score, consider score improvement strategies before paying for a retake.
FAQs About GRE Fees
1. How much does the GRE exam cost in India?
✔ The GRE General Test costs $228 (₹19,200) in India.
2. Can I get a GRE fee waiver?
✔ Yes! ETS provides a GRE Fee Reduction Program for students with financial need.
3. How much does it cost to send GRE scores to universities?
✔ The GRE fee includes four free score reports. Additional score reports cost $30 (₹2,500) per university.
4. Is the GRE exam fee refundable?
✔ Yes, but only 50% of the fee is refunded if you cancel at least four days before the test date.
5. How many times can I take the GRE, and does it cost extra?
✔ You can take the GRE up to 5 times a year, and each attempt requires a new registration fee.
Conclusion
Understanding GRE fees and associated costs is crucial for students planning their test strategy and budgeting for study abroad. While the registration fee is standard, additional costs like rescheduling, score reporting, and retakes can add up.
