The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test required for admission to many graduate schools worldwide. Aspiring students in India need to be well-informed about the costs associated with the GRE to plan their applications effectively. Here, we provide a detailed overview of the GRE fees in India, including additional costs, payment methods, and relevant policies.
What is the GRE Exam?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test used as an admissions requirement for many graduate schools and business programs worldwide. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE evaluates a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level academic work. The test assesses skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing.
Structure of the GRE
The GRE consists of three sections:
- Verbal Reasoning: This section measures the ability to analyze and draw conclusions from discourse, understand multiple levels of meaning, such as literal, figurative, and authorial intent, and summarize text.
- Quantitative Reasoning: This section tests problem-solving ability using basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Analytical Writing: This section assesses critical thinking and analytical writing skills, specifically the test-taker’s ability to articulate and support complex ideas clearly and effectively.
The GRE General Test is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats. Additionally, there are GRE Subject Tests that focus on specific fields such as Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.
Registration and Test Centers
- Registration: Candidates can register for the GRE online through the official ETS website. Registration involves creating an account, selecting a test date and location, and paying the registration fee.
- Test Centers: The GRE is offered at numerous test centers around the world. In addition to test centers, ETS provides the option to take the GRE General Test at home under specific conditions.
GRE Exam Fee Structure in India
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized assessment widely recognized by graduate programs globally. In India, the GRE fee is divided into two categories:
- GRE General Test: This test assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The GRE General Test fee in India is ₹22,550.
- GRE Subject Tests: These tests delve deeper into subjects like Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology. The fee for GRE Subject Tests in India is ₹14,500.
Additional Costs to GRE Exam Fees
While the base fees are relatively straightforward, there are additional costs to consider:
Rescheduling Fee: If you need to reschedule your GRE test date, the fee is INR 5000. This must be done at least four days before the scheduled test date to avoid losing the entire fee.
Changing Test Center Fee: To change your test center, a fee of INR 5,000 is applicable.
Additional Score Reports: Sending GRE scores to more than the initial four institutions costs around INR 2,900 per additional report.
Score Reinstatement: If you previously canceled your scores and wish to reinstate them, the fee is INR 5,000.
Score Review: For a review of the Analytical Writing section, the cost is INR 5,900.
Returned Payment Fee: If your payment is returned, there is a fee of INR 2,900.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
- Cancellation Fee: If you cancel your GRE registration more than four days before the test date, you are eligible for a refund of half the test fee (approximately INR 11,275). Cancellations within four days of the test date are non-refundable.
- Refund Processing: Refunds are processed back to the original payment method and may take up to 15 business days.
GRE at Home
The GRE can also be taken from home. The GRE at-home test fee is the same as the test center, INR 22,550. This option requires specific technical conditions, such as a reliable internet connection and a quiet environment.
Payment Methods
ETS, the organization that administers the GRE, accepts several payment methods for test fees:
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and others.
- PayPal: Available for payments.
- E-Check: Available for U.S. bank account holders.
- Voucher and Money Orders: Specific vouchers issued by ETS or authorized organizations can be used.
GRE Fee Waiver
ETS offers a fee reduction program for students who demonstrate financial need. This program provides a 50% reduction in the test fee and includes access to free test preparation materials. Eligibility and application details are available on the official GRE website.
Tips to Manage GRE Exam Costs
- Plan Ahead: Register for your exam in advance to avoid last-minute changes and potential fee increases.
- Explore Fee Reduction Programs: Some organizations offer GRE fee reduction vouchers. Check if you qualify.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Increase your chances of getting a good score on your first attempt, reducing the need for retakes and additional fees.
Conclusion
Understanding the GRE fees is essential for effective financial planning. By being aware of the costs involved and taking advantage of available resources, you can manage your expenses while focusing on your GRE preparation.