GRE Eligibility: Know Required Age Limit, & Country Specific Qualification Requirements!

The GRE Exam, conducted by ETS, imposes no specific eligibility criteria on candidates wishing to take the test. The GRE General Test is open for registration to individuals from all backgrounds, without any set age limits or mandated educational qualifications. It is one of the largest assessment programs for admission to graduate courses in MS and MBA studies worldwide.

Students planning to pursue graduate programs abroad are often required to undertake the GRE test. The exam assesses critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical writing skills. As an Indian student, the only eligibility requirement for the GRE test is to submit a valid passport.

The GRE is primarily taken by candidates seeking admission to master’s or Ph.D. programs. While there are no specific qualifications required to take the GRE, applying to an MS program typically requires an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject. For those taking the exam at home, meeting the equipment and environment criteria set by ETS is essential.

Before registering, candidates should check the detailed eligibility requirements on the official website. Top-ranked universities usually look for GRE scores ranging between 315 and 330. This flexibility in eligibility makes the GRE accessible to a wide range of candidates, ensuring that more students can aim for their desired graduate programs.

GRE Eligibility Criteria

The GRE Exam, administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), is open to all candidates, regardless of their educational background or nationality. Unlike many standardized tests, the GRE does not impose specific eligibility criteria, making it accessible to a diverse range of test-takers. This flexibility is one of the key reasons for the GRE’s popularity among students aspiring to pursue graduate studies abroad.

Educational Prerequisites

• The GRE does not have mandatory educational prerequisites. Candidates from various educational backgrounds can take the exam.

• While there is no strict requirement, it is generally expected that candidates have completed their undergraduate studies, as the GRE is primarily used for graduate admissions.

Age Requirements

• There is no upper age limit for taking the GRE. Candidates of all ages can register for and take the exam.

• Individual universities may have their age-related admission policies, but ETS does not impose any age restrictions for the GRE.

Qualification Requirements

• There are no specific qualifications required to appear for the GRE. However, candidates are typically expected to have completed their undergraduate degree.

• Whether a GRE score is required for admission depends on the university and the specific graduate program. Some programs may not require GRE scores at all.

ID Requirements for Indian Candidates

Candidates must present a valid Indian passport as their primary ID during the GRE registration and at the test center.

Other forms of identification are not accepted. It is crucial to ensure your passport is up-to-date and meets the requirements.

Impact of Gap Years & Re-attempts

• Candidates who have taken gap years for preparation or other reasons are still eligible to take the GRE. Gap years do not affect your ability to register for the exam.

• Candidates can take the GRE up to five times in a rolling year, with at least 21 days between attempts.

• Use the 21-day gap to improve your preparation and address any weaknesses identified in previous attempts.

Nationality

• The GRE is available to candidates from all nationalities. There are no restrictions based on nationality.

GRE Home Edition

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ETS introduced the GRE Home Edition, allowing candidates to take the test from their homes.

System Requirements

• Use a desktop or laptop; tablets, Chromebooks, and mobile devices are not allowed.

• Must have a licensed operating system; Windows 10/8 or Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.

• Chrome or Firefox is required.

• Multiple monitors or dual screens are not permitted.

Speaker and Microphone Requirements

• Use internal or external speakers. Headsets or earphones are not allowed.

• Use an internal or external microphone that is not part of a headset.

Camera Requirements

• A built-in or external webcam is necessary. It must be movable to show a 360-degree view of the room.

Environment and Testing Space

• You must be alone in a room with no interruptions.

• A clear tabletop and a standard chair are required. Food and drink are not permitted during the test.

• Ears must be visible, and religious headwear is allowed if it doesn’t cover the ears. Masks are not permitted during the test.

Note-taking Materials

• Use a small whiteboard with an erasable marker or one sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector. Pencils and pens are not allowed.

• All notes must be erased in front of the proctor at the end of the test.

The GRE Exam offers a flexible and inclusive approach to eligibility, accommodating a wide range of candidates. Whether you’re a recent graduate or someone with several years of work experience, the GRE is accessible to you. Understanding these eligibility criteria ensures you are well-prepared to take the exam and pursue your graduate studies with confidence.

List of GRE Eligible Countries 

Here’s the list of GRE score-accepting countries: