There are two types of GRE (Graduate Record Examination): GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test. The purpose of both types of tests is to help you get admission for MS abroad. 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. This article will focus only on the GRE Subject Test.
ETS conducts the GRE Subject Test only three times a year, in the months of April, September, and October. It evaluates your knowledge in Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology. The objective of this exam is to help students gain admission into graduate programs that require in-depth subject knowledge. By the end of this article, you will understand everything about the GRE subject test.
- What is GRE Subject Test?
- Why Take GRE Subject Test
- Which GRE Subject Tests to Write?
What is GRE Subject Test?
Simply put, GRE Subject Tests are specially written exams that aim to assess the knowledge and skill of the candidate in a particular subject. For instance, a GRE Mathematics test would test the level of knowledge of the student in the said subject.
Unlike the GRE General Tests, GRE 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 2025 |
|
| Exam Frequency | 3 Times a Year (April, September, and October) |
| GRE Subject Test Subjects |
|
| Purpose | To get admission in PG course |
| GRE Subject Test Fees 2025 | INR 14,500 |
Why Take GRE Subject Test
GRE Subject Test is not mandatory for most universities, even top ones. However, the score card of this exam can be a great way to present your strength in a specific subject and boost your academic profile. If your grades are average or your background doesn't fully reflect your skills, an impressive score of GRE subject test score can help.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
While not required, some programs recommend taking the test, especially research-heavy or competitive ones. If you're applying to a PhD program, it may even be expected. Taking the test gives you the option to submit your score only if it’s good, so there’s no real downside. Review your application, goals, and program requirements before deciding.
Which GRE Subject Tests to Write?
The GRE Subject Tests are available in Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. You should choose a subject test that aligns with your intended field of study or academic background. Such as:
- Mathematics Subject Test: Ideal for applying to graduate programs in pure or applied math, statistics, or data science.
- Physics Subject Test: Recommended for physics, engineering, or astronomy-related graduate studies.
- Psychology: Helpful for students pursuing graduate programs in psychology, cognitive science, or related fields.
In short, before choosing any test, understand your requirements and your target universities' recommendations. If a subject test is suggested or helps strengthen your profile, it’s worth considering.
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 has not announced GRE Subject Test dates 2025 yet, it's advisable to check the official ETS website for exact dates.
According to the ETS, GRE Subject Test registration fee is INR 14,500 for Indian students. Applicants can pay this fee by using online payment methods (Credit/Debit card). Note that, you will have to pay separately to reschedule the test or change the centre. The registration fee amount does not include any other expenses.
Pick your stage and get free guidance from counsellors who've helped thousands get into top universities.
Starting research
Shortlisting colleges
Exam preparation
SOP/LOR writing
Scholarship & finance
Visa application
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Comments
(92)
A
2 years ago
R
2 years ago
P
3 years ago
R
3 years ago
L
3 years ago
R
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
M
4 years ago
R
4 years ago
R
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
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: