The GRE is conducted at about 1000 test centres in more than 160 countries. It is offered as a computer-delivered test and as a paper-based test if the computer-based test is unavailable. As mentioned on the ETS website;
The computer-delivered GRE® General Test is offered year-round at Prometric™ test centres, and also on specific dates at additional testing locations outside of the Prometric test centre network. Appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis
The GRE is administered throughout the year, and the availability of the test centers and dates can be found below:
https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/register/centers_dates
You can register for the computer-delivered GRE either online or via phone.
What should a test-taker be prudent about ?
- University deadlines: Every university will have it’s own deadline for applications. Students must be updated with the deadlines for both scholarships and the regular applications.
- Accept or Reject Scores: A test taker has the option to cancel the test scores, in which case the scores do not reach the selected universities. On the other hand, if a student accepts the test score, the score will reach the university within 15 days. Universities then take 2-3 days to process the score, and for it to reflect in your application portal.
- You can take the computer-delivered GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period. While booking your test date, be cautious about this factor because it might lead to a late application.
- A GRE score is valid for 5 years
ONLINE REGISTRATION PROCESS
- In order to begin the process of registering for an exam, the test-taker must create an ETS® account. When you create the account, make sure that your ‘First Name’ and ‘Last Name’ are both as per the valid government-issued identification document. For Indian test-takers, the passport is the only valid accepted ID. The passport must be valid, and anyone using an old passport will also be barred from taking the test.
- Make sure to read the policies of the ETS. A key policy is that of the name: In case of a mismatch in the name, the test taker will not be allowed to take the GRE.
- Make sure to read the policies of the ETS. A key policy is that of the name: In case of a mismatch in the name, the test taker will not be allowed to take the GRE.
- Check the availability of seats at your preferred center and date, by following the link provided earlier in the article (will redirect you to the ETS website).
- Log in to your ETS account and using the credentials (Login ID and password), you can book your seat.
- Remember that the test requires that you provide your credit or debit card while booking your seat. Amex, Discover, MasterCard, JCB or Visa cards are accepted. Remember that cards such as RuPay that are based in India will not be accepted.
- A confirmation email will be sent by ETS to your email account that confirms your test date, score, the test choice and the score recipients.
- 7. If you have a disability, remember that the process of registration is different and you will not be allowed to register online.
PHONE-REGISTRATION PROCESS
- Make a call to the appropriate Regional Registration Center (RRC) at least two business days before the preferred test date to register for the GRE
- Payment can be made using an American Express, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, or Visa credit/debit card
- The Disability Accommodations on the ETS Website has all information for test takers with disabilities or health-related needs
- In order to pay with a bank check or money order, you will need to get a GRE General Test Authorisation Voucher by mail
IMPORTANT POINTS
- Banks such as SBI, Vijaya Bank, Punjab National Bank etc, that belong to the public sector are not authorized to make payments to the ETS. Therefore, ensure that the card is either with an international bank or a private sector bank, such as HDFC, ICICI. Also remember that cards, such as RuPay are not accepted on the website.
- ETS may add or delete payment options at its own discretion and without notice. Keep logging into your account or check the website for updates.
- A valid Indian passport is considered for the exam.
- You can log into your account at a later date and send in your scores to more universities at an additional fee.
- Rescheduling or cancelling can be done online or over the phone at least four days before the test date at an additional cost
What else can I do using my ETS account?
- Access the free GRE Diagnostic Service
- Purchase materials for your GRE test preparation
- View your test scores
- Receive text messages and email notifications about your test and scores
For more information, visit the official website: https://www.ets.org/gre/subject/about/tools/search_service
To summarize, the ETS enables test takers to book dates in advance, and a student must exercise prudence and must be systematic with his or her application. Plan your test date, and book your slot. If you do have any query, do not hesitate to contact your nearest Jamboree center.
