ETS now offers flexible at-home GRE testing worldwide, allowing candidates to take the exam from home with the same fees as the General Test.
Indian test-takers can now use UPI and local bank cards for seamless payment, reducing reliance on international credit/debit cards.
The GRE Exam Fees 2025 vary depending on the test type, region, and optional services. In India, the GRE General Test costs ₹22,000, the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) Subject Test is ₹14,500, and the GRE At-Home Test is also ₹22,000. Additional services like rescheduling (₹5,000), changing test centers (₹5,000), sending extra score reports (₹2,900 each), score review (₹5,900), and score reinstatement (₹5,000) can further increase the total cost. On average, Indian aspirants spend ₹22,000–₹30,000, depending on optional services.
In this blog, you’ll get a complete breakdown of GRE fees in India and globally, including registration costs in INR and USD, optional services, regional differences, and fee waiver opportunities. We’ll also cover payment methods, strategies to reduce costs, and answer the most common GRE fee-related questions, helping you plan your exam and preparation efficiently.
GRE Exam Fee Structure
The GRE exam fee structure includes the cost of the test itself, along with optional services like rescheduling or score reports. Knowing these fees upfront helps you plan your GRE journey without any surprises.
1. GRE General Test Fee
The GRE General Test is the most commonly taken exam and measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
Test Type
Fee (INR)
Notes
GRE General Test
₹22,000
Computer-based test
GRE at-home Test
₹22,000
Same as General Test, can be taken from home
2. GRE Subject Test Fee
The GRE Subject Test focuses on specific fields like Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Psychology. The fee is now standardized in India at ₹14,500 per test.
Subject
Fee (INR)
Notes
Biology
₹14,500
Paper-based test, required by some programs
Chemistry
₹14,500
Paper-based test, same fee globally
Physics
₹14,500
Paper-based test
Mathematics
₹14,500
Paper-based test
Psychology
₹14,500
Paper-based test
3. Additional GRE Fees
Many students overlook extra charges that can increase the total GRE cost. Here’s a breakdown:
Understanding how GRE fees are calculated is key to budgeting effectively. The total cost isn’t just the base test fee; it includes optional services, regional variations, and currency considerations.
Here’s a detailed breakdown.
1. Base Test Fee
The base fee depends on the type of GRE test:
Test Type
Fee (INR)
Notes
GRE General Test
₹22,000
Includes the first four free score reports
GRE At-Home Test
₹22,000
Same as General Test, flexible location
GRE Subject Test
₹14,500
Covers paper-based test in selected subjects
2. Additional or Optional Fees
Optional services and changes add extra costs:
Service
Fee (INR)
When It Applies
Rescheduling Test
₹5,000
If you need to change your test date
Changing Test Center
₹5,000
Switching to a different city or location
Sending Additional Score Reports
₹2,900 per recipient
Beyond the four free reports
Score Review
₹5,900
Request ETS to recheck scores
Score Reinstatement
₹5,000
Reinstating canceled scores
3. Regional and Currency Variations
If you’re an international candidate, GRE fees may vary slightly due to currency conversions. For example, USD-based fees may differ slightly in INR depending on exchange rates. ETS updates fees regularly, so always check the official website before paying.
4. How Total GRE Fees Are Calculated
To calculate your total cost:
Total GRE Fee = Base Test Fee + Optional Services + Currency Adjustments (if international)
Example:
GRE General Test in India: ₹22,000
Rescheduling once: ₹5,000
Sending two additional score reports: ₹5,800 (₹2,900 x 2)
Total: ₹32,800
Payment Methods for GRE Fees
Paying your GRE exam fees is simple, but it’s important to choose a payment method that’s secure, quick, and convenient for your region. ETS (the official GRE administrator) offers several ways to pay, both online and offline.
Let’s go through each option.
1. Online Payment Methods
Most students prefer paying their GRE fees online because it’s fast and instantly confirmed. You can use:
Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or JCB
Debit Cards: Internationally enabled cards (check with your bank for global transactions)
PayPal: Accepted in select countries
E-checks (U.S. only): For test-takers who have a U.S. bank account
Note: Always ensure international transactions are enabled on your card before payment.
Payment Method
Accepted?
Processing Time
Credit Card
✔️
Instant
Debit Card
✔️
Instant
PayPal
✔️
Instant
E-check
✔️ (U.S. only)
2–3 days
2. Offline Payment Methods
If you don’t have access to online payment options, ETS also allows offline methods, though these take longer to process.
Money Order or Demand Draft: Accepted in USD only, payable to ETS-GRE
Bank Transfer: Available through authorized local banks in certain countries (check with ETS regional offices)
You’ll need to:
Download and complete the GRE registration form.
Attach your payment instrument.
Mail it to the ETS GRE office address provided on the form.
Offline Method
Accepted Currency
Processing Time
Notes
Demand Draft
USD
3–4 weeks
Slower, not recommended close to deadlines
Bank Transfer
USD
2–3 weeks
Must confirm receipt with ETS
3. Important Payment Guidelines
To avoid errors or delays:
Always use the same name as on your GRE registration form.
Keep a screenshot or receipt of your transaction for future reference.
Do not send cash or personal cheques.
Double-check your test date and test center before making payment to avoid rescheduling costs.
4. Payment Deadlines
GRE registration typically closes 4–6 weeks before the test date.
Late registration (within one week of the test) incurs an extra $25 (₹2,100).
Payments after the deadline or incomplete transactions will not be processed.
5. Refunds and Failed Payments
If your payment fails, ETS will notify you via email, and your test slot won’t be booked until payment is successful.
Refunds (for cancellations before the deadline) are usually processed within 7–10 business days, with a 50% refund policy on the base fee.
GRE Fee Waiver and Financial Assistance
For many students, the GRE exam fee can be a significant expense. ETS offers fee waivers and financial assistance to help eligible candidates reduce or even eliminate the cost, making the GRE more accessible.
1. Who is Eligible for a GRE Fee Waiver
Students with financial need, typically from low-income families
US citizens or permanent residents meeting ETS financial guidelines
Candidates participating in specific educational programs endorsed by ETS
2. Benefits of a GRE Fee Waiver
Full or partial reduction of the base GRE General or Subject Test fee
Allows access to the exam without an immediate financial burden
Helps students plan better for preparation and associated costs
Benefit
Details
Registration Fee Coverage
Covers the standard GRE General Test or Subject Test fee
Score Reports
First four reports still included for free
Optional Services
Not covered (rescheduling, extra reports, score review, etc.)
3. How to Apply for a Fee Waiver
Visit the official ETS GRE website and navigate to the Fee Reduction section.
Once approved, you can register for the test without paying the base fee.
4. Planning Around the Fee Waiver
Even with a fee waiver, students may still need to pay for:
Rescheduling test: ₹5,000
Changing test center: ₹5,000
Sending additional score reports: ₹2,900 per recipient
Score review: ₹5,900
GRE Fees Comparison by Region
The GRE exam fee varies slightly depending on the region, mainly due to currency differences and regional policies. Understanding these variations helps international students plan their budgets accurately.
1. GRE General Test Fee by Region
Region
Fee (USD)
Fee (INR Approx.)
India
$231
₹22,000
USA
$220
₹18,500
Europe
$231
₹19,500
Asia (Other)
$220–$231
₹18,000–₹22,000
2. GRE Subject Test Fee by Region
The GRE Subject Test fee is uniform worldwide, but INR conversions vary for Indian students.
Region
Fee (USD)
Fee (INR Approx.)
India
$150
₹14,500
USA
$150
₹12,600 approx.
Europe
$150
₹12,600 approx.
Asia (Other)
$150
₹12,600 approx.
3. Additional Fees Across Regions
Service
Fee (INR in India)
USD Approx. Globally
Rescheduling
₹5,000
$50
Changing Test Center
₹5,000
$50
Additional Score Reports
₹2,900 per recipient
$27 each
Score Review
₹5,900
$60
Score Reinstatement
₹5,000
$50
4. Summary of Regional Comparisons
India: ₹22,000 for General or At-Home, ₹14,500 for Subject Test. Optional services extra.
USA: $220 for General, $150 for Subject Test. Additional services same globally.
Europe & Other Regions: Slight variations exist; plan based on USD conversions.
Tips to Reduce GRE Exam Costs
Paying for the GRE can be a significant expense, but with careful planning, you can minimise costs while still taking the exam you need. Here are practical strategies for reducing GRE exam fees in India and globally.
1. Register Early
Avoid late fees: Late registration in India costs ₹5,000.
Better test center options: Early registration ensures your preferred location and date.
Peace of mind: Planning ahead reduces stress and prevents unnecessary additional costs.
2. Plan Score Reports Wisely
ETS provides four free score reports with your test registration.
Only send additional score reports to universities that absolutely require them. Each extra report costs ₹2,900 in India.
Tip: Make a shortlist of target universities before registering to avoid unnecessary extra charges.
3. Use Fee Waivers if Eligible
Students with financial need can apply for ETS GRE fee waivers.
Covers the registration fee for the General or Subject Test.
Remember: Optional services like rescheduling or extra score reports are not included, so plan accordingly.
4. Avoid Last-Minute Changes
Rescheduling: ₹5,000 in India
Changing test center: ₹5,000 in India
Only make these changes if absolutely necessary. Planning your schedule and preparation can save these extra costs.
5. Prepare Thoroughly to Avoid Retakes
Each attempt costs ₹22,000 (General Test in India) or ₹14,500 (Subject Test).
Focused preparation with practice tests helps you maximize your first attempt and avoid paying for multiple retakes.
Consider online prep courses, mock tests, and study plans to improve efficiency.
6. Use At-Home GRE if Convenient
The GRE at-home test costs the same as the General Test (₹22,000) but can save travel and accommodation costs.
Ideal for candidates in remote locations or during travel restrictions.
Understanding the GRE exam fees is essential for any aspirant planning to study abroad. From the base registration cost for the General and Subject Tests to additional services, score reports, and optional fees, every component adds up. Regional differences, currency fluctuations, and extra charges for rescheduling or cancellation make it even more important to plan ahead.
By following strategies like applying for fee waivers, registering early, limiting extra score reports, and using cost-effective payment methods, you can manage your GRE expenses efficiently. Planning not only helps reduce costs but also ensures a smooth and stress-free exam experience.
No, the GRE fee must be paid in full at the time of registration. ETS does not allow installment payments for either the General or Subject Tests. Planning ahead and ensuring your payment method has sufficient funds is essential to avoid failed transactions or missed registration deadlines.
Does the GRE fee include the cost of preparation materials?
No, the standard GRE fee does not include preparation materials. However, students who qualify for a fee waiver often receive free access to official ETS prep tools like POWERPREP Online and practice books. Otherwise, prep resources such as books, online courses, or coaching must be purchased separately.
Are there any hidden charges in the GRE registration process?
ETS is transparent with its fee structure. The base fee, rescheduling, test center changes, additional score reports, and optional services are all clearly listed. Hidden charges may appear only due to foreign transaction fees or currency conversion when paying from outside the U.S.
Can international students pay GRE fees in their local currency?
Yes, ETS converts the GRE fee into local currencies based on the prevailing exchange rate. International students can pay using globally enabled debit/credit cards, PayPal, or authorized bank transfers, making it convenient to complete registration without dealing in USD directly.
How long does it take for the GRE fee payment to be processed?
Online payments are processed immediately, confirming your test registration instantly. Offline methods like demand drafts or bank transfers may take 2–3 weeks, so it’s recommended to use online payment options for timely confirmation and to avoid delays in securing your test slot.
Is there a difference in GRE fees for online vs. in-person testing?
The GRE General Test is mostly computer-based worldwide, so fees remain the same regardless of testing mode. Paper-based Subject Tests may vary slightly in processing costs depending on the country, but the base fee remains $150 (₹12,600) globally.
Can I get a refund if my visa or travel plan is canceled after registration?
No, ETS does not provide refunds for visa issues or personal travel cancellations. Refunds are only available if you cancel the test before the official deadline, in which case you receive 50% of the test fee. Planning early and confirming travel arrangements is crucial.
Are GRE fees refundable if the test center closes unexpectedly?
Yes, if ETS cancels your test due to a test center closure or technical issues, you are eligible for a full refund or rescheduling. Refunds are processed back to the original payment method, usually within 7–10 business days.
How do late payment penalties affect GRE fees?
If you register after the regular deadline, a late registration fee of $25 (≈₹2,100) is applied in addition to the base fee. This ensures your slot is confirmed, but early registration is always recommended to avoid extra charges.
Can universities reimburse GRE fees after I’ve taken the test?
Some universities or scholarship programs reimburse GRE fees after admission. The reimbursement policy varies by institution, so it’s important to check with the university’s financial aid or admissions office before paying extra fees for score reports or rescheduling.
Are there discounts on GRE fees for repeat test-takers?
No direct discount is provided for retaking the GRE. Repeat test-takers must pay the full registration fee again. Planning thoroughly and preparing well the first time can help avoid the cost of retesting.
How long does it take to receive a refund after cancelling the GRE test?
If you cancel in time, ETS refunds 50% of your GRE exam fee. Most students receive the money back within 1–2 weeks, though processing speed depends on your bank.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |2868 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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