GRE Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit, Educational Qualification & Minimum Score

GRE

Raj Vimal
Updated on Apr 27, 2026 10:30 IST

By Raj Vimal, Assistant Manager Editorial

Overview

GRE Exam 2026 does not include any specific eligibility criteria on candidates looking to take the test. Registration window for Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is open for individuals of all backgrounds. According to ETS, there are no official rules for GRE Exam Eligibility. It means and there are no set age limits or educational qualifications mandated for the Graduate Record Examination. It is one of the largest assessment programs for admission to graduate courses in MS & MBA studies worldwide. Students planning to pursue admission to graduate programs abroad are required to undertake the GRE test.

Here are some points to understand the GRE Eligibility for Indians easily

  • Candidates of any age can appear for the GRE.
  • Anyone from any educational background can take the test. You do not need to show your graduation certificate. However, the GRE is only for admission in master's or their PhD courses, so without having a graduate degree, there is no point in appearing for the exam.
  • A valid passport is an important document to appear in GRE exam 2026.
GRE Eligibility
Table of contents
  • GRE Exam Eligibility 2026
  • GRE Subject Test Eligibility 2026
  • Types of GRE Tests
  • GRE Registration 2026
  • GRE Preparation 2026
  • FAQs Related to GRE Eligibility
GRE Logo

GRE Exam Eligibility 2026

The GRE is an exam for students who want to study for a Master's or PhD. The rules to take the test are very simple. Most people can take it without any problems.

Age Limits

  • No Minimum Age: You can take the test even if you are young.
  • No Maximum Age: You are never too old to take the GRE.

It means people of any age can complete GRE registration.

Educational Qualifications

  • No Degree Required: You do not need a specific college degree to take the test.
  • University Rules: While the GRE has no rules, the universities you apply to usually require a bachelor's degree (undergraduate degree).
  • Gap Years: If you took a break after school, it does not matter. You are still eligible.

Required Documents (ID Proof)

To take the test, you must prove who you are. The rules are very strict:

  • Valid Passport: In most countries, including India, you must have an original passport.
  • Details: The passport must show your name, photo, and signature.
  • No Substitutes: Usually, student IDs or driver's licenses are not accepted. Always carry your physical passport to the test center.

GRE Test Attempt Rules

You can take the GRE more than once if you want a better score.

  • The 21-Day Rule: You must wait at least 21 days between each attempt.
  • Yearly Limit: You can take the GRE up to 5 times within any 12-month period.
  • Score Validity: Your results stay valid for 5 years.

Technical Requirements for GRE Home Test

If you take the "GRE at Home," you need the right setup:

  • Computer: A desktop or laptop (no tablets or phones).
  • Camera: A webcam that can move to show the whole room.
  • Privacy: A quiet, private room where no one else enters.

Pro Tip: Always check official ETS website before you register. Rules for ID can change depending on your country.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I take GRE without graduation?
A: 

Yes! As per the GRE Eligibility criteria, students from any educational background can appear in the exam. Here students need to keep in mind that without having a valid UG degree they can not apply for admission in Graduate, business and law course to study abroad. 

Q:   Can a student who has recently passed his Class 10 apply for the GRE exam?
A: 

Yes, a class 10th pass out is also eligible to take GRE. There is no age restriction. But GRE is for MS or MBA courses and those who are pursuing bachelors take this exam.

Q:   How many attempts are possible in the GRE exam for students looking to study abroad?
A: 

Students who want to take Graduate Record Examination test to study abroad should know that ETS GRE Exam allows test-takers up to five attempts within a year. Note that, you can take the GRE General Test once after every 21 days. You need to complete the GRE registration process everytime to appear for the exam.

GRE Logo

GRE Subject Test Eligibility 2026

The GRE Subject Test is designed for students who want to show their expert knowledge in a specific field. Unlike the General Test, the Subject Test is highly specialized. For the 2026 intake, the eligibility remains very flexible.

GRE Subject Test does not have strict "pass or fail" rules for entry. Instead, it focuses on your academic background and readiness for advanced study.

Category Eligibility Details
Education
  • No minimum degree required.
  • Best for those with a strong UG background in the subject.
Age Limit
  • No minimum or maximum age limit.
  • Students of any age can register.
Required ID (India)
  • Original Passport is the only accepted ID for Indian students.
  • It must be valid and current.
Required ID (Global) A valid, government-issued photo ID (National ID or Driver's License).
Available Subjects
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Psychology
Attempt Limit You can take the test once every 14 days.
Test Schedule Typically held 3 times a year in September, October, and April.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the best GRE score to get admission in a good university?
A: 

For top universities, a "safe" score is usually 320+ (out of 340). If you want admission in Ivy League or top engineering colleges, try for 325+. For average universities, a score of 310 is also good.

Q:   What is a good GRE score to get into a MS Computer Engineering program in a top 20 US university?
A: 

To get into MS in Computer Engineering program offered by any top 20 US university, students should have at least in the range of 320-340. score in Gradute Record Examination. However, this is just a general guideline. Getting a high score in GRE does not gurantee you for getting admission in your desired course/university. Specific requirements can vary depending on the university and the program.

Q:   What is the maximum and minimum score in GRE to get admission for MS in USA?
A: 

Max is 340. Min is 260. For USA, you usually need 300. Big schools like Stanford want 325+. If you get 290, it is tough. risky for admission. Aim higher.

GRE Logo

Types of GRE Tests

General test and Subject test are two types of GRE tests 2026:

GRE General Test

GRE General Test takes into account verbal reasoning, quantitative ability, and analytical writing skills. Most universities accept the general test score, and usually, a majority of students opt for this test. It takes place all around the year and candidates can choose the date of taking the exam at their convenience.

GRE Subject Test

The GRE Subject Test measures the candidate’s achievement in a particular subject area. These tests are conducted for Maths, Physics, and Psychology. Exam is conducted on a fixed date for everyone, like an entrance exam. This test is required for specialized courses. GRE exam eligibility for subject test is not announced officially. To appear in any subject test, it is good to have proper knowledge of that subject.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is GRE Subject Test?
A: 

The GRE Subject Test evaluates the candidates’ ability in Mathematics, Physics and Psychology subjects. It is a computer based test. Generally, the GRE Subject Test is required for getting admission to specialised courses/technical programmes. The GRE Subject test is primarily held three times a year in September, October and April months. The total duration of the GRE Subject test is 2Hrs and 50 minutes and candidates are required to appear for only one of the subjects from the list mentioned below:

  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Psychology
Q:   What are the key changes in GRE General Test?
A: 

The Educational Testing System announced a few changes in the GRE Exam.

  • Shorter Test Duration: Reduced GRE duration. Earlier, it was 4 hours and it's less than 2 hours.
  • Removed Some Sections: The unscored section and the scheduled break have been removed.
  • Quick Reporting of GRE Result: Students can get the GRE score within 8-10 calendar days.
GRE Logo

GRE Registration 2026

Applying is easy. The entire process to complete your GRE registration is fully online and can be finished in just a few minutes. It is convenient.

  • First, you must go to the official website at ets.org to create your personal ETS account. Do it now.
  • Carefully select the specific type of GRE exam you need to take for your study abroad plans. Be very sure.
  • Enter your personal details and choose most convenient date and the nearest test centre location. Plan your travel.
  • Review your application details. Proceed ahead to pay required GRE fees securely. You are done.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is GRE registration open?
A: 

Yes, GRE registration is generally open year-round for the General Test. All you need to do is, select the suitable date of GRE and test centre. Your registration depends on slot availability at your chosen test center.

At the time of registration you just need to have a valid passport and no other document is required.

Q:   How do I register for GRE exam?
A: 

The proper registration details have been mentioned:

  • Visit the official website of ETS GRE Exam and login to your account (First Time test taker register for the exam).
  • Select the GRE test type (General Test/Subject Test).
  • Pick the test date and location suitable for you.
  • Pay the registration fee by using online payment method and confirm your resgitration.
  • Take printout slip for future refrences. 
Q:   Is passport required for GRE exam registration?
A: 

Yes! As a primary ID proof, ETS ask valid passport of student at the time of GRE test registration. Make sure all the detailes mentioned on passport should be same on your GRE registeration page. Earlier, the ETS was accepting Aadhar Card as primary ID proof but after Arpil 15, 2023, Passport is the only valid and primary ID proof to complete the GRE exam registration. 

GRE Logo

GRE Preparation 2026

Candidates looking to perform well in their GRE test would be required to follow a solid GRE Preparation strategy to achieve their desired goal. Similar to other exam prep, you can choose to study on your own or join a coaching centre to prepare for the GRE exam. The decision lies entirely to you, as you need to see whether you have enough time and resources for both.

Newer methods of studying are gaining popularity. GRE preparation online includes both self-studying and coaching. You join a virtual classroom and you learn in the comfort of your home.

GRE Preparation Tips

A lot of students are confused and ask, How to study for the GRE? We will help you understand and discuss the best possible strategies.

  1. Start GRE preparation as son as possible.
  2. Collect exam information to create your exam preparation strategy.
  3. Make flashcards and prepare notes
  4. Allot more time for weak topics.
  5. Use authentic books for GRE preparation.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I take the GRE exam multiple times to improve my score?
A: 

Yes, you can! Many students use to re-take GRE exam for achieving desired score. All you need to keep in mind that take GRE General Test up to five times within a rolling 12-month period (365 days). There must be a gap of at least 21 days between consecutive attempts.

Q:   Can GRE be cracked in 1 month?
A: 

Yes, it is possible if you are dedicated. You must study for at least 3 to 4 hours every day. Take a mock test first. See your bad spots. Focus only on weak areas. Use flashcards for words. Cramming is risky but possible.

Q:   What should I do next to prepare for GRE?
A: 

If you are doing GRE preparation for the first time then you should know GRE General Test measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills of a candidate during the test. You need to work on these sections to get good score. Here are the preparation tips for you

  • Start your preparation as soon as possible.
  • Take a practice or mock test before you start your preparation.
  • Identify strengths and weaknesses.
  • Choose limited but authentic study materials.
  • Create your notes and flashcards during preparation.
  • Divide your objective in small goals and keep tracking your progress.

Also, candidates from India can explore some helpful tips to prepare for GRE especially for Indian students.

GRE Logo

FAQs Related to GRE Eligibility

Check out the common FAQs related to the eligibility of GRE:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I take the GRE exam if my passport is under renewal or expired?
A: 

No, you need to carry a valid passport at the GRE test centre. It is the one and only mandatory document for Indian students to take the exam. So, if your passport is expired or under renewal, then wait till you get the passport. 

Q:   Do gap years between graduation and taking the GRE affect eligibility or admissions?
A: 

There is no issue or effect in appearing GRE exam, due to your gap year. The Graduation Record Examinations have nothing to do with your gap year. However,   your university may decline your admission to a selected course. You need to check with the university itself.

Q:   Is there any restriction based on nationality or citizenship to take the GRE?
A: 

No, GRE 2026 has no restrictions on nationality or citizenship Students of any age can take this GRE test. Whether you are an Indian student or not, you can take this exam.

Score Predictor

Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!

Share 12th Board, Percentage, english score
Get estimated scores or IELTS, TOEFL & PTE









Explore popular study destinations
Resources for you
Understand the process step by step by referring to these guides curated just for you
qna

Comments

(507)

I have done my Bachelors in Artificial engineering, I am applying for public universities in Germany few colleges need GRE, which one should I do can some one help me in this regards. Also I have done my IELTS with 8 score.

Reply to Chandra Shekar Dommalapati

R

Rutul Kumar

2 years ago

Hi I am unable to book my GRE Physics Test in Ahmedabad, even though test centre are initially showing, but at the time of registration it is showing this error since last two months "No test centers found based on your search criteria. Change search criteria or enter a specific city location and tr

...Read more

Reply to Rutul Kumar

A

Abhay kumar

2 years ago

go for GRE at home, only Arizona state university doesn't accept GRE at home except them every college in USA accept GRE at home

R

Rutul Kumar

2 years ago

When should I apply for GRE Physics April Session in Ahmedabad, India?

Reply to Rutul Kumar

H

Hari

2 years ago

How is physically handicapped dear and dumb?

Reply to Hari

R

Rahul Singha

2 years ago

Hello Hari. Kindly elaborate on your query for me to be able to assist you better.

R

Reshmi Kadamati

3 years ago

hi i am architectural student so i need to join cullen university of space architecture college , i.e, university of houston , USA .

Reply to Reshmi Kadamati

R

Rahul Singha

3 years ago

Hello Reshmi. If you are looking for assistance with university admissions, do reach out to our team of Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply You can know all about the University of Houston, here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/usa/universities/university-of-hous

...Read more