The GRE test, also known as the Graduate Record Examination, is important for students who want to study for graduate degrees abroad. This test is run by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It checks a person's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. While you practice tough vocabulary and work on your math skills, you also need to think about money: the GRE exam fees. This guide gives you all the details you need about GRE exam fees in India.
Key Highlights
- The fee for the GRE General Test in India is ₹22,550.
- The fee for the GRE Subject Test is ₹14,500.
- There are extra fees for services like rescheduling, changing test centers, and asking for more score reports.
- You can pay with credit/debit cards, UPI, or digital wallets.
- It's important to look into fee reduction programs and know about the refund policy.
Overview of GRE Exam Fees in India
Taking the GRE is an important step in your academic path. Knowing the costs is key for planning and budgeting. The GRE exam fee in India can change depending on whether you take the GRE General Test or the GRE Subject Test.
In addition to the main registration fee, there may be extra charges. These could include fees for rescheduling, changing your test center, getting more score reports, or asking for a review of your analytical writing section. By understanding these possible costs, you can prepare yourself better financially.
Current GRE Exam Fee Structure
The GRE exam fee is not uniform globally and differs based on the geographical location of the test-taker.
As of 2025, the GRE exam fee in India is as follows:
GRE Test Type | Fee (INR) | Fee (USD Approx.) |
---|---|---|
GRE General Test | ₹22,550 | $272 |
GRE Subject Test | ₹14,500 | $175 |
GRE At-Home Option | ₹22,550 | $272 |
For Indian students opting for the GRE at-home option, the fee remains the same as the test center fee: ₹22,550. ETS has made a conscious effort to keep this fee structure consistent, making the exam accessible to students regardless of their location or chosen test mode. Do confirm the fee when you register.
Comparison with Previous Years
The cost of the GRE has sadly gone up from time to time. Knowing about these fee changes can help you expect what it might cost in the future and plan for it. While ETS lists the exact GRE exam fee for this year, they don’t always share historical fee details easily.
You can check online forums and talk with past test-takers to get a rough idea. Make sure to look at official announcements from ETS and trusted sources to find the latest and precise fee structure.
This can be done by monitoring these changes and comparing them each year. Thus, a good budget for the GRE exam can be set. Looking ahead this way helps you be ready for the costs as you apply to graduate school.
Detailed Breakdown of GRE Registration Fees
The total GRE registration fee is not just one amount. It usually comes with a base fee and then extra charges for certain services. This will help you plan your budget carefully for each part.
The base fee is primarily for taking the GRE General Test. It covers most of the important costs. However, services such as rescheduling or getting score reports cost extra.
Base Registration Fee
The base registration fee is the largest part of the total GRE cost. This fee is required for everyone who takes the test. It does not change, no matter which test center or test date you pick.
When you register for the GRE, this fee reserves your seat. It covers the cost of developing and managing the test. This ensures that each candidate receives a fair and equal experience in the exam.
Keep in mind that this fee does not cover extras. Services like rescheduling your exam or getting more score reports cost extra. It’s good to know about these added costs so you are not surprised later on your GRE journey. Mention the data.
Additional Charges and Services
Beyond the basic registration fee, you should be ready for more costs, especially if you need extra services from ETS. For example, if you need to change your GRE test date, it may cost about INR 5,000.
Changing your test centre is another service that will add to your expenses. If you want to send your GRE score to more universities than you first planned, each extra score report will also cost more.
These extra service fees can build up. So, it's important to include them in your budget when you are getting ready for your GRE exam. Knowing these costs helps you avoid surprises and helps you be better prepared for the test.
GRE Cancellation and Rescheduling Fees
Life can surprise us, and sometimes you may have to change or cancel your GRE test date. ETS gets this and lets you make changes, but you need to know their rules and fees to make smart choices.
Rescheduling gives you some leeway, but if you do it less than four days before the test date, you could lose a big part of your exam fee. Also, canceling your test, even in the right time period, may not mean you will get all your money back. Knowing these details can help you avoid wasting money.
Service | Fee (INR) | Fee (USD Approx.) |
---|---|---|
Rescheduling Test | ₹5,000 | $60 |
Changing Test Centre | ₹5,000 | $60 |
Changing Subject Test | ₹5,000 | $60 |
Additional Score Report | ₹2,900 | $35 |
Analytical Writing Review | ₹5,900 | $71 |
Score Reinstatement | ₹5,000 | $60 |
Returned Payment Penalty | ₹2,900 | $35 |
How to Cancel Your GRE Test?
In case you want to cancel your GRE test, you will need to start this process via your ETS account. Knowing the cancellation policy is important as it explains the rules. Generally, the policy indicates the cancellation deadline and gives information about the refund.
You get most of your money back if you cancel your GRE test early, but sometimes cancelling up close to the test date can make you lose all the fees for the GRE General Test. Always check the current cancellation policy at the official ETS website before making your final decision. Knowing the deadlines can help you save money and avoid stress during this process.
Fees and Refund Policy for Cancellation
The GRE fee refund policy is not straightforward. You won’t always get your money back if you cancel. The refund amount changes based on when you cancel and how you paid.
If you cancel your GRE General Test registration at least four days before the test date, you may get back 50% of what you paid. But if you cancel within four days of the test date, you usually lose the whole GRE fee.
Always look for the latest refund policy on the official ETS website for the most current information. If you have a good reason to cancel closer to the test date, contact ETS directly to explore your options.
Steps to Reschedule Your GRE Test and Associated Costs
Rescheduling your GRE exam is simple with these steps:
- Log into your ETS account.
- Select a new date and time, depending on availability.
- Be prepared to pay a rescheduling fee that is generally charged at INR 5,000.
Be aware that if you reschedule near your original test date, you may be charged a higher fee. In some cases, you might even lose your registration fee. The good news is if you change your GRE General Test appointment at least six days before your test date, you may not have to pay a fee for your first reschedule.
Always plan ahead. In this way, you can avoid extra costs and secure the date you want. Always check the ETS website for the most updated information regarding rescheduling fees before making any changes.
Payment Modes of GRE Fee in India
Several safe modes of payment options are available for GRE fees at ETS in India. This makes it convenient for test-takers. You can use international credit cards, like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. These are accepted everywhere.
You can choose local payment options in India too. The popular local debit cards include UPI as well as online wallets such as Paytm, PhonePe, and Google Pay.
Accepted Credit/Debit Cards
Paying for your GRE exam fee in India with a credit card is very popular. You have options from both local and international cards. Well-known credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express work well on the ETS platform.
If your credit card was issued outside of India, ETS offers dynamic currency conversion (DCC). This lets you see the fee in your own currency. It helps you keep track of what you're spending and compare prices better.
Make sure to check with your credit card provider about any possible international transaction fees. Knowing such extra charges will help to have a smoother and clearer experience of payments.
- Credit/Debt cards accepted
- Visa
- Master card
- American Express
- Other payment options
ETS offers a range of payment methods for test-takers in India, in addition to credit cards. For making direct payments in Indian rupees, you can use many debit cards from Indian banks.
The Unified Payments Interface, popularly known as UPI in India, helps you pay for the GRE fees very easily and securely. Additionally, you can use digital wallets such as Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay, and many more.
These local payment options make paying easy and take away the concern of fluctuating exchange rates and additional fees from international transactions. You can go through a very smooth and worry-free experience when you opt for these payment methods.
How to Save on GRE Fee?
The fee for the GRE may appear as a flat amount, but there are ways to cut costs with planning. Registration in advance helps you avoid late fees and obtain a preferred date at a test center.
- Research fee reduction programs or waivers offered by ETS or other organizations.
- Many such programs target students from low-income families or from backgrounds underrepresented in higher education.
- Knowing about these programs and their eligibility criteria can greatly lessen your costs.
Timing Your Registration
A simple and smart way to save money on GRE general test fees is to pay attention to the registration dates. If you register early, before your test date, it can help you a lot.
Waiting until later can result in additional fees, causing your expenses to increase more than they should have. You'll have ample time to prepare by signing up ahead of time and avoid the additional costs.
By registering early, you are more likely to get a seat at your preferred test center and on your preferred date. This careful planning saves you money and keeps your test day more relaxed.
Seeking Fee Reductions or Waivers
The GRE fee reduction program is a program by ETS. Its goal is to help students who have financial problems take the GRE general test. This program can greatly lower the cost of the GRE, especially if you get a full fee waiver.
To find out if you qualify, check the guidelines on the official ETS website. This program usually helps people who show financial need, come from certain backgrounds, or are part of special fellowship programs.
To apply, you need to fill out a fee reduction request form. This form asks for details about your financial situation and requires some documents. If your application is approved, you will get a fee waiver code. This code will lower or completely cover the GRE cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to know the GRE exam fees in India. This helps you plan your test-taking strategy well. By learning about the fee structure, payment methods, and ways to save money, you can register easily. Make sure to think about the best time to register. Also, look into opportunities to reduce fees to manage your costs better. Keep these tips in mind to have a clear plan for taking the GRE in India.
FAQs
What is the total cost of taking the GRE in India?
The total cost of the GRE in India can be higher than just the basic exam fee. The GRE fee for the GRE General Test is ₹22,550. However, you may have additional costs, like rescheduling fees or extra score reports. The final cost in Indian rupees can change based on these factors.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my GRE exam?
Are there any hidden charges in GRE registration?
How can I reschedule my GRE test date in India?
Is there a fee waiver program for GRE applicants in India?
How much is the GRE Subject Test Fee?
What is the GRE at Home Test Fee?
How to Register for the GRE Online?
What is GRE exam eligibility?
Do graduate schools have any preference when it comes to GRE and GMAT exams?