• Updated on 14 Oct, 2026 by Diksha Kumari
GRE registration 2026 is the initial step for candidates who wish to take the GRE exam. GRE registration is conducted online, and candidates can apply through the official website at ets.org/gre.html. The registration process takes around 15-20 minutes. Through GRE registration 2026, candidates have to enter personal information, academic details, and choose their test date. Candidates will also have to select their preferred exam centre for the GRE Exam 2026 at the time of registration.
It is recommended for students to complete GRE registration at least 1-2 months before the respective exam date. This will help them check the availability of exam centres. GRE application fee 2026 is INR 22,500 for the General Test and INR 14,500 for the Subject Test. It is also important that candidates select the correct GRE exam type. Candidates can book GRE exam slots throughout the year. The slots are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
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GRE Registration Last Date 2026
There is no fixed GRE Registration Last Date 2026. The GRE Exam 2026 is conducted throughout the year, so candidates can register and select a test date based on available slots at their preferred test centre or for the GRE at Home. Candidates are advised to register at least 1-2 months in advance of their preferred test date, especially if they need a specific test centre or date. The actual availability of GRE slots depends on the location and test-centre schedule.
For a university application, candidates should also account for the time required for GRE score reporting and complete the test before their institution's application deadline.
Candidates should first check the GRE Eligibility Criteria 2026 to understand the basic requirements before registering.
How to Register for GRE 2026?
The GRE application process 2026 is conducted entirely online. Candidates can also choose their preferred exam centre at the time of registration. Candidates should also ensure to have a valid passport at the time of registration. The step-by-step process to register for GRE 2026 is given below:
Before appearing for the test, candidates should check their GRE Admit Card 2026 and keep the required documents ready.
GRE ID Requirements 2026
Candidates appearing for the GRE General Test must carry an acceptable, valid ID on the test day. The ID requirements depend on the candidate's citizenship and the country or location where the test is taken. ETS also requires the name used during registration to match the name on the ID document.
GRE ID Requirements for Indian Candidates
The ID document presented at the GRE test centre must meet the following requirements:
- It must be an original physical document. Photocopies and digital IDs shown on a mobile phone or other electronic device are not accepted.
- It must be government-issued and recognised by the relevant government authority.
- The candidate's first and last name must exactly match the name entered during GRE registration, excluding accents.
- The ID must have a recent and recognisable photograph.
- It must contain the candidate's signature.
- The ID must be valid and not expired.
- Damaged IDs, such as documents with a punched hole or cut corner, are also considered invalid.
GRE Name Matching Rule
The name entered while creating the ETS account and registering for the GRE should match the first and last name printed on the ID document. Candidates should enter their full first name and full surname rather than using a nickname or initials. A middle name or initial may be included, but it is not mandatory. If the name on the primary ID does not match the registration details, the candidate may not be allowed to take the test, or the GRE scores may be cancelled after the test.
Is Aadhaar Card Accepted for GRE?
No. Aadhaar card is not accepted as a primary or supplemental ID for the GRE, according to the current ETS ID requirements. Candidates should therefore check that they have another acceptable government-issued ID before scheduling the test.
Other IDs Not Accepted by ETS
ETS does not accept the following documents as primary or supplemental ID:
- Photocopies or expired IDs
- Digital IDs displayed on electronic devices
- International driver's licence
- International student ID
- Credit or debit cards
- Birth certificate
- Employee ID card
- Social Security card
- Temporary IDs, except certain specified renewal documents
- Diplomatic, consulate or embassy ID
- Documents not recognised by a government agency
- Aadhaar card
Understanding the GRE Exam Pattern 2026 helps candidates familiarise themselves with the sections, question types and time allotted.
GRE ID Requirements for Home Test 2026
Candidates taking the GRE at Home also need to complete identity verification before the test. ETS requires identity verification through the IDVaaS app, generally at least 72 hours before the scheduled test. The process involves scanning the ID, capturing a photograph/ selfie, and submitting the information for verification. Candidates who register less than 72 hours before the test should complete the verification immediately after scheduling.
Candidates who are unable to meet the standard ID requirements due to circumstances such as refugee or political asylum status must contact the ETS Office of Testing Integrity (OTI) at least 7 days before registering and obtain approval before registration. Candidates can refer to the GRE Syllabus 2026 to identify the topics covered in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing.
GRE Application Fee 2026
Along with the GRE application form, candidates also need to pay an application fee. The fee varies depending on the request. The complete details on the GRE application fee 2026 are given below:
GRE Fee Reduction Program 2026
ETS provides the GRE fee reduction program for candidates who are financially weak, unemployed, or currently serving in the Peace Corps. A GRE fee reduction voucher is offered to eligible candidates, through which candidates will pay the following fees:
The following candidates are eligible for the GRE test fee reduction program 2026:
- Candidates with financial need
- Candidates who are unemployed
- Candidates who are currently serving in the Peace Corps
- For programs that support underrepresented groups.
After covering the syllabus, candidates can practise with GRE Question Papers to understand the types of questions asked.
GRE Registration Payment Policy 2026
Candidates can pay the fee for GRE exam registration 2026 in online or offline modes. The GRE registration payment policy 2026 is given below:
- Accepted payment methods: Candidates can pay the GRE registration fee using the payment methods available during online registration. Cash, checks, and money orders are not accepted.
- Online service fee: The final transaction amount includes a non-refundable 4% online service fee.
- Outstanding dues: Candidates with an outstanding balance on their ETS account must clear the dues before registering for another ETS test or service.
- Unpaid balance: If an outstanding balance remains unpaid, ETS may withhold scores and add a non-refundable service fee to the account.
- Currency: During online registration, candidates may be offered the option to pay in the local currency supported by their card issuer or in US dollars.
- Bank authentication: The card-issuing bank may require additional authentication, such as an OTP or authentication code, before approving the transaction. If the required verification is not completed or the information entered is invalid, the payment may be rejected.
- Payment options: ETS reserves the right to add or remove payment options without prior notice.
GRE Refund Policy 2026
If a candidate cancels the GRE registration within the permitted timeframe, the refund is subject to ETS's refund policy. The current bulletin states that cancellations made more than four days before the test date can qualify for a refund, while cancellations made four or fewer days before the test date, on the test day, or after the test date are not eligible for a refund. Candidates can check the available GRE Exam Centres and select a convenient test location while scheduling the exam.
GRE Test Retake Policy 2026
Candidates who wish to improve their GRE score can take the GRE General Test once every 21 days, with a maximum of five attempts within any continuous 12-month period (365 days). The 21-day gap applies even if scores from an earlier test were cancelled. For the GRE Subject Test, candidates can take another attempt after 14 days. This rule also applies when scores from a previous attempt have been cancelled.
ETS may enforce the retake policy even when a violation is identified after the test scores have been reported. If a violation is found, such as inconsistent registration information, ETS can cancel the scores and notify the institutions that received them. In such cases, the test fee will be forfeited. Candidates can also attempt a GRE Mock Test to assess their preparation and practise time management.
GRE Registration 2026 FAQs
When does GRE registration 2026 start?
GRE registration is available throughout the year. Candidates can register online and select a test date based on the availability of slots at their preferred test centre.
Is there any last date to register for GRE 2026?
No, there is no fixed GRE registration last date. Candidates can book a GRE slot throughout the year, subject to test-date and test-centre availability.
How can candidates register for GRE 2026?
Candidates can register for the GRE online through the official ETS website. The process involves creating an ETS account, selecting the GRE test, choosing the test mode, date, and location, entering the required details, and paying the registration fee.
How long does GRE registration take?
The GRE registration process generally takes around 15–20 minutes, provided candidates have the required information and payment method ready.
Can candidates choose their GRE test centre during registration?
Yes. Candidates can select their preferred test centre, date and time while booking the GRE. The available options depend on the test-centre schedule at the time of registration.
Is a passport required for GRE registration in India?
Candidates should have a valid passport that meets the applicable ETS identification requirements. The name entered during GRE registration should match the name on the ID document.
Is Aadhaar Card accepted for the GRE?
No. Aadhaar Card is not accepted as a primary or supplemental ID for the GRE. Candidates should carry an acceptable government-issued ID that meets ETS requirements.
What is the GRE application fee 2026 in India?
The GRE registration fee depends on the type of test and other services selected. Candidates should check the applicable fee displayed by ETS at the time of registration before making the payment.
Can candidates reschedule the GRE after registration?
Yes. Candidates can reschedule their GRE appointment subject to ETS rules and availability. A rescheduling fee may apply.
How many times can a candidate take the GRE General Test?
The GRE General Test can be taken once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period. This rule also applies when scores from a previous test have been cancelled.
How often can candidates take the GRE Subject Test?
Candidates can take a GRE Subject Test once every 14 days. The rule applies even when scores from a previous attempt have been cancelled.
Can candidates get a refund after cancelling GRE registration?
Candidates may be eligible for a refund if the GRE appointment is cancelled more than four days before the test date, subject to ETS's refund rules. Cancellations made four or fewer days before the test are generally not eligible for a refund.
Can the GRE be taken from home?
Yes. Candidates can choose the GRE at Home option where it is available. Additional identity verification is required before taking the test from home.
When should candidates register for the GRE?
Candidates are advised to register 1–2 months before the preferred test date, particularly when a specific test centre or date is required. Early registration also gives candidates more flexibility when planning around university application deadlines.