The GRE Subject Test is one of the types of Graduate Record Examinations. It is a special exam for students who want to show they are experts in one area. While the General GRE covers many topics, this test focuses on only one subject.
Why take the GRE Subject Test? No matter if you want to get enrolled in management or other PG programs offered by universities worldwide, the GRE result is an important eligibility requirement. It helps you stand out when applying for a Master’s or PhD. It shows foreign universities that you have deep knowledge of your favorite subject. Available Subjects
Currently, you can take the GRE Subject Test in three areas: Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
When to take it? The GRE Subject Test happens only three times a year. You can take it in April, September, and October. The test is now taken on a computer. You should study your college textbooks to do well.
Before you book, always check your university website. Some schools require it, while others make it optional. Picking the right date helps you finish your application on time.
- What is GRE Subject Test?
- GRE Subject Test vs GRE General Test
- GRE Subject Test Subjects & Syllabus
- FAQs About GRE Subject Test
What is GRE Subject Test?
GRE Subject Test is a computer-delivered test. It assesses the knowledge and skills of the candidate in a particular subject. For instance, the GRE Mathematics test would test the level of knowledge in maths. Unlike General Tests, Subject Tests are specific and limited to one subject.
These often have drawn out a syllabus that tests the students on various aspects of the subject. Designed to test the skill level in a particular subject area or field, these tests are an excellent way to showcase your understanding of a specific subject, as suited to the career of your choice. Check out some important information about the GRE Subject Test below:
| GRE Subject Test Overview | |
|---|---|
| Test Type | Paper-Based Test |
| GRE Subject Test Date 2026 | April 20, 2026 - May 3, 2026 |
| Exam Frequency | 3 Times a Year (April, September, and October) |
| GRE Subject Test Subjects |
|
| Purpose | To get admission in MS abroad |
| GRE Subject Test Fees 2026 | INR 14,500 |
GRE Subject Test vs GRE General Test
Most students take the General test to show they have basic skills in math and reading. However, some students need to show they are experts in one specific area. This is where the Subject test comes in. It is much deeper but focuses on only one topic, like Physics or Math. It helps prove your skills to top universities abroad.
| Feature | GRE General | GRE Subject |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Broad skills | Specific subject expertise |
| Sections | Verbal, Quant, Writing | Subject-specific questions |
| Difficulty | Moderate | High (Specialized) |
| Who should take | Most applicants | Specialized programs |
GRE Subject Test is ideal for students applying to specialized STEM or psychology programs. It helps prove deep knowledge in a single field, while the General test measures basic graduate-level readiness.
GRE Subject Test Subjects & Syllabus
The GRE Subject Test syllabus is designed to match what you learned in college. These tests are very detailed. You must know your subject well to score high. Below is a simple breakdown of what is covered in each of the three main exams. GRE fee for Subject Test is INR 14,500.
- Mathematics: This test has about 66 questions. It is for students who love numbers and logic. Most questions come from Calculus, but you also need to know Algebra and other math theories.
- Physics: This exam has about 70 questions. It covers classic physics and new science too. You will need to solve problems about how things move and how energy works.
- Psychology: This test has around 144 questions. It looks at how people think and behave. It covers everything from how the brain works to how people act in groups.
| Subject | Main Topics | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Algebra, Calculus, Analysis, Discrete Math | Advanced (College Level) |
| Physics | Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Physics, Optics | High (Specialized) |
| Psychology | Cognitive, Social, Clinical, Developmental, Biological | Comprehensive |
FAQs About GRE Subject Test
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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
ETS conducts GRE Subject Test three times a year: in September, October, and April. These computer based test is available during specific two week windows within those months. You can take a GRE Subject Test once every 14 days.
ETS released the schedule every year in the month of July on their official website. Applicants can check official webpage of ETS GRE subject test to get the exam schedule.

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3 years ago
Hello Manisha. I am good, thank you. I hope you are doing fine yourself. You can take a look at popular universities in New Zealand, here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/new-zealand You can also get in touch with our Shiksha Counsellors for assistance with university applications here: https://stu
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4 years ago
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4 years ago
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4 years ago
Hello Anshu. You can take a look at popular universities in the US here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/usa The admission requirements would depend on your preferred university. if they require GRE (Subject) scores as part of their admission criteria then you would be required to apply for the sam