GRE Exam Eligibility 2024: Age Limit & Academic criteria

Are you planning to take the GRE test but need clarification on the eligibility criteria? Are your scores enough to make you eligible for the GRE exam? 

Caught in the web of all such questions? Break free because we are there to hustle with you in your GRE journey.

Conducted by more than 1,000 test centres in over 160 countries, the GRE is one of the world’s most popular standardized tests for graduate schools abroad. Whether it is a business, law, science-based, or any course you wish to pursue, having a decent GRE score helps you be ahead of others in the race. But before even starting with your GRE preparation, it is vital to have an in-depth understanding of GRE exam eligibility: educational qualification, age criteria, required documents, etc. 

Let us explore all the needs and requirements for GRE 2024 for both GRE General Test and Subject Test, along with looking at the top universities accepting GRE scores. 

Also, don’t miss out on the expert GRE preparation tips at the end of the blog. 

Education Qualification Required for GRE

High scores in class 12th and bachelor’s degree? What is the qualification to take the GRE test? 

If you are wondering about the required educational qualification for GRE, there are no specific eligibility criteria for the GRE Exam. With that, the GRE test is accessible to all aspirants. But since GRE is exclusively for master's admission, a candidate must have an undergraduate degree in the relevant subject. Afterall, it is a primary requirement for master's at top universities abroad. 

Do also note that not all programs and universities accept GRE scores. So, you must do your research before planning to appear for the exam. 

Suggested: How to Improve GRE Scores?

Documents Required for GRE Exam

Although there is no strict age and education qualification restriction, it is essential to present a valid ID to prove your GRE eligibility. A government-approved ID is necessary at every step of your study abroad journey. Hence, if you do not have any, apply for it at the earliest. 

So far as GRE is concerned, there are a few criteria that your ID must fulfil:

• Your ID proof must be original. Photocopied or scanned IDs are strictly prohibited. Besides, you must present your ID in physical form only. You cannot show it through a mobile phone or any electronic device. 
• Your ID must be a government-issued (national/state/province) identity card that proves your citizenship.
• Your ID name must match your current name or the name through which you register for GRE. Any spelling mistake will automatically disqualify you from taking the test.
• Your ID must have a clear and valid signature. 
• Your ID must have your recent photograph, which is clear and identifiable.
• Expired documents are not accepted as valid ID proof. Hence, check your ID's expiry date before using it for the GRE exam. 

Note: As of January 1, 2023, ETS accepts expired IDs up to 90 days past the expiration date.

What is GRE at Home Eligibility?

Since the pandemic of 2020, ETS (Educational Testing Service) has launched the GRE at Home facility, where candidates can take the GRE exam from the safety of their homes. Imagine sitting in your room with pyjamas on and appearing for the test, all chilled and comfortable! Isn’t GRE at home synonymous to life ho toh aisi? 

However, there are a few things to remember for a seamless GRE at-home experience. Some of them are:

• Candidates must use either a laptop or computer for the test. Using smartphones is not a preferable choice.
• Do not use any headphones, earbuds, etc., during the test.
• All internal and external communication is to be done via a speaker.
• The room should be quiet, devoid of any external noise or distractions. 
• Use a proper desk and chair for the test.
• Position yourself where the proctor can see you directly.
• No notes taking on another sheet is allowed. 
• Erase all extra notes and show the same to the proctor.
• The candidate must dress appropriately for the test. 
• The webcam in the laptop/computer should give a full view of you and your background.

What is GRE Eligibility for Disabled Candidates?

The GRE exam is designed for students of all categories, even for the specially-abled. Such students must complete a testing accommodations request form which should then be sent to the ETS Disability Services. The accommodations include extended test time, breaks between tests, assistance during the exam, etc. 

Students in this category should also submit a list of documents to prove GRE exam eligibility criteria. Some of them are:

• State the disability he or she is going through.
• Provide educational, developmental and medical history.
• Mention a list of all test equipment.
• List the limitations of a student due to the disability when they write the exam, etc.

Suggested: GRE Self Preparation

GRE Accepting Universities

Do you know GRE scores are recognized by 1300+ B-schools and 80+ law schools worldwide? A high GRE score can be your ticket to the university of your choice. Hence, don’t underestimate the power of a good GRE score! 😉

GRE scores vary in terms of courses and universities. Overall, the GRE cutoff for any college or course relies on parameters like the number of test-takers, university ranking, and the number of seats, etc. 

Here we have mentioned the top GRE accepting universities, along with their scores:

Do keep in mind that the GRE scores for above-mentioned universities may vary for different courses. Hence, it is advisable to visit the official university website for the exact data. 

Now that we know about GRE exam eligibility criteria, let us go through some tips to prepare for GRE:

GRE Preparation Tips

Now that you know about GRE eligibility criteria, the next step is to start your preparation. How much time does it take to prepare for GRE? Well, every test taker is unique in his/her own way. Hence it is a subjective proposition. But the way you plan your preparation highly determines your success. 

Listed below are some quick GRE preparation tips to help you achieve your goal:

• Design a study schedule and follow it strictly.
• Understand the GRE question pattern and gather all relevant study materials.
• Devote more time to the sections that you find challenging.
• Take practice tests to track your progress. 
• Be calm and confident on your test day. 

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To successfully qualify for the GRE exam, you must be determined and disciplined enough to devote the required time and effort. Once you are clear with eligibility for GRE, started with the GRE syllabus right away. Remember to prepare and practice hand-in-hand with Yocket GRE Prep to keep a track of your progress. Get in touch with our Yocket Professionals to experience a seamless study abroad journey. 

Frequently Asked Questions About GRE Exam Eligibility

1. What are GRE exam requirements?

Ans. There are no such GRE eligibility criteria from ETS, however, candidates must have an undergraduate degree in the relevant subjects and must possess valid government-approved identity proof.  

2. How old do you have to be to take the GRE?

Ans. There is no set age limit to appear for the GRE exam. There is no minimum age for the same as well. But anyone under 18 needs written consent from their parents to take the test. 

3. What is ID requirement for GRE exam?

Ans. One GRE exam eligibility criterion is having a valid government-issued ID. It can be anything like a driving license, adhaar card, passport, bank passbook, and so on. All information on your ID proof must match the data you put in registering for the GRE exam.

4. Do I need GRE scores to attend graduate school?

Ans. Most of the top universities abroad ask for a GRE score for almost all programs. Hence, having a good GRE score can get you an edge over others in the admission process. 

5. What is GRE exam eligibility marks?

Ans. The GRE scores vary across universities. A score of 300 and above is usually considered good for the top universities abroad.