Find out the current GRE exam fee, additional costs, and payment options. Get updated details for 2025 to plan your graduate school journey smartly
If you’re planning to study abroad for a master’s or doctoral program, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is likely on your radar.
Conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the GRE is a standardized test required by thousands of graduate schools worldwide.
But one common question students ask is “How much is the GRE exam fee?“ In this comprehensive article, we’ll break down the GRE exam fee, additional charges, regional pricing differences, payment options, and smart ways to reduce your costs.
ALSO READ: How Long Is a Masters Degree in UK?
What is the GRE?
The GRE is a standardized test used by universities to evaluate applicants readiness for graduate-level academic work. It assesses three core areas:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Analytical Writing
There are two formats:
- GRE General Test: required by most programs.
- GRE Subject Test: required by specific graduate programs in subjects like Math, Physics, and Psychology.
Let’s now look at what it costs to register for the GRE in 2025.
GRE Exam Fee in 2025
The GRE General Test fee varies by country, and prices are subject to periodic changes. Below are the current 2025 rates.
United States
- GRE General Test: $220
- GRE Subject Test: $150
India
- GRE General Test: $228
- GRE Subject Test: $150
China
- GRE General Test: $231.30
- GRE Subject Test: $150
Europe
- GRE General Test: $220
- GRE Subject Test: $150
Other Locations (Africa, Latin America, etc.)
- GRE General Test: $220 – $235 (depending on the country)
- GRE Subject Test: $150
Advice: Always verify the current fee on the official ETS website for your country before booking.
Additional GRE Fees You Might Pay
The base registration fee isn’t the only cost. Here are optional services and other charges you may incur:
| Service | Fee (USD) |
| Rescheduling Test | $50 |
| Changing Test Center | $50 |
| Additional Score Reports (per school) | $30 |
| Score Review (Analytical Writing) | $60 |
| Score Reinstatement | $50 |
| Returned Check Fee | $20 |
Note: If you reschedule or cancel your test, it must be done at least 4 days before the test date to get a partial refund.
How to Pay the GRE Exam Fee
You can pay your GRE Exam fee on the ETS portal.
ETS offers multiple payment options for international students:
- Credit or Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB)
- PayPal
- Money Order / Certified Bank Check
- ETS Vouchers (if available)
Note: Your payment must be made in U.S. dollars, and some payment methods may not be available in all countries.
Can I Get a GRE Fee Waiver?
Yes, but fee waivers are limited and based on financial need. ETS offers the GRE Fee Reduction Program for eligible test-takers.
Who Can Apply?
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Individuals demonstrating financial hardship (proof required).
- Undergraduate seniors or unenrolled college graduates.
What’s Included in the Fee Reduction?
- 50% discount on the GRE General or Subject Test.
- Free access to official GRE preparation materials (worth over $100).
Note: As of now, fee reductions are not available for international students, but local scholarship programs or NGOs may help.
GRE Costs Beyond the Exam Fee
Many students overlook the additional costs of preparing and applying for graduate school. Here’s what else to budget for:
1. Preparation Materials
- ETS Official Guide: $40
- Online courses or coaching: $100–$1000+
- Practice tests: $20–$100
2. University Application Fees
- $50–$150 per university
3. Transcript Fees
- Varies by institution (usually $10–$30)
4. Travel (for test center-based GRE)
- Transport, lodging, and food if your test center is far away.
Tip: Many universities offer application fee waivers, make sure to ask.
How to Save Money on the GRE
If the GRE exam fee seems high, you’re not alone. Here are practical tips to minimize your expenses:
Use Free Resources
- ETS PowerPrep Practice Tests (Free)
- Free GRE prep apps (Magoosh, Manhattan Prep)
- YouTube channels (e.g., GregMat, Kaplan Test Prep)
Study Strategically
Avoid paying to take the GRE multiple times. Study smart, take full-length mocks, and review your mistakes carefully.
Apply Early
Early test registration gives you better control over location and date options, potentially reducing travel expenses.
Ask for Vouchers
Some universities and organizations give out GRE fee vouchers during outreach programs or virtual education fairs.
How Often Can You Take the GRE?
You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times in a rolling 12-month period. While retaking is an option, remember, each attempt costs money. Use your prep time wisely so you don’t have to pay the GRE fee multiple times.
Where Are Your Scores Sent?
With your GRE registration, you get to send scores to 4 institutions for free. If you want to send scores to more schools, you’ll need to pay $30 per additional report.
Hack: Choose your four target universities before test day to avoid extra charges.
GRE Fee Refund and Cancellation Policy
If your plans change, here’s how much you can get back:
- Cancel at least 4 days before your test: 50% refund
- Cancel less than 4 days before test: No refund
To cancel or reschedule, log in to your ETS account and follow the steps. Refunds are usually processed within 8–10 business days.
GRE Exam Fee vs Other Standardized Tests
| Test | Fee (Approx.) |
| GRE | $220–$231 |
| GMAT | $275 |
| TOEFL | $195–$225 |
| IELTS | $245–$255 |
Takeaway: The GRE is competitively priced, especially when compared to the GMAT.
Is the GRE Worth the Cost?
While the GRE exam fee might seem like a financial burden, it opens the door to graduate programs across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia. With proper preparation, a strong GRE score can also lead to scholarships and assistantships, making it a valuable investment in your academic future.
Quick Checklist:
- GRE General Test Fee: $220–$231
- Subject Test Fee: $150
- Budget for prep, applications, and reports
- Apply for fee waivers or discounts
- Use free prep resources and plan strategically
Conclusion
Plan Smart and Spend Smart. Understanding the GRE exam fee structure and planning ahead can help you avoid unnecessary costs. Set your goals, prepare well, and use the tips in this article to maximize your GRE investment without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re headed to Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, or the University of Toronto, it all starts with the GRE, and now, you know exactly what it costs and how to save.
