The GRE is one of the most standardized tests for pursuing study abroad. It is of two types- GRE General and GRE Academic. The general test allows you to be admitted into top business colleges, law schools, and other master’s degrees. The GRE Academic enables you to pursue a specialized master’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics.
However, you must match with GRE Exam Eligibility if considering taking the test.
According to ETS (Educational Testing Service), the conducting body of the GRE, the test does not specify any eligibility criteria for applicants. Individuals living across the world can apply for the GRE without any restrictions.
However, since the test is for admission to a master’s, GRE exam eligibility requires candidates’ basic qualifications. In addition, there are some requirements associated with identity cards to appear for the exam and use its score.
Let’s learn about the document requirements, education qualifications, age limits, etc.
Age Limit for GRE Exam
On the ETS website, the GRE minimum and maximum age limits are not explicitly mentioned. Candidates from any age group can apply for this test to gain admission to top universities of the world, vested in the UK, US, Australia, Canada, etc. The Age limit might be in the institutions or universities you’re going to take admission with a GRE score.
Education Qualification for GRE
Education qualifications are also not set from the ETS for GRE. However, since the test is for a master’s program, applicants must have completed the bachelor’s degree in any discipline or are about to finish it till the GRE score validity.
If the candidate takes the GRE academic test for a master’s in any particular subject, they might require a bachelor’s in the same discipline. The minimum score achieved in bachelor’s or 12th might be the decision of the colleges you’re considering to apply for.
Hence, check the educational qualifications of the top universities in your preferred country, to gain admission seamlessly. If you need help with the country or college selection process, you can get free counseling regarding study abroad.
ID Requirements for GRE
If the GRE test is something you want to take, you must meet the requirements for the ID documents. You must carry a valid and acceptable ID to your exam center while appearing for the test. According to the ETS:
- You need to have an original document. Photocopied documents are not acceptable at the center. In addition, you can’t present documents on a cell phone or any other electronic device.
- The proof of ID should be a government-issued national/state/province identity card. It must be recognized by the country where you are a citizen or permanent resident.
- The documents must bear your first and last name. The name on the ID should be the same with your registered name for GRE.
- The document must include your recent, recognizable photograph.
- The document must have your signature, and ensure the name and signature on the ID document match.
- The document must be valid. The documents with expiration dates that have passed need to be revised.
ID cards which you can use for the GRE test:
- Passport
- National ID
- Government-issued driver’s license
- Military ID
- State or Province ID card
- Passport Card accompanied by an acceptable supplemental ID (in some countries like the United States, American Samoa, etc., only it’s acceptable)
Eligibility Criteria to Re-attempt GRE
If your GRE score validity has expired, or you’re not satisfied with the marks you received, you can re-appear for the GRE. The eligibility criteria to retake the GRE are the same. However, you must know that you can re-attempt the GRE 5 times in a cycle of 21 days a year.
GRE Eligibility Criteria for Specially Abled Individual
ETS ensures that each individual takes the GRE test. Hence, it provides special facilities to individuals with disabilities or health-related issues. However, to avail of the facility, the individual needs to meet specific eligibility which include:
- Must fill the GRE test authorization request form for GRE disabilities services
- Submit the form at least 4 to 6 weeks before the test date online, through email, mail, or courier services.
- Provide disability documents, if needed
By submitting the form and documents, you can request accommodations at less destructive places, extended times, extra breaks, human assistance, alternate test formats, or other technology assistance. Moreover, it allows you to carry out medical requirements that are essential for you.
To learn more about GRE supplements for test takers with disabilities and health issues. Tap here.
Home-Edition GRE Eligibility
In response to covid 19, ETS has introduced the GRE home edition, which is convenient for test takers and available 24*7 around the year. However, to take the test, applicants need to meet specific eligibility requirements, which include:
- You must have a laptop or desktop. Tab or mobile devices are not allowed to be used.
- The operating system in your electronic device should be Windows 10 or above or Mac OS X 10.13 or higher.
- You must use either Chrome or Firefox browser.
- A single monitor is permitted.
- Only the use of an internal or external mic is allowed.
- The desktop/laptop must have an in-built camera or separate webcam that can be moved to show a 360-degree view of the room, including your tabletop surface, before the test.
- You must be in a packed room with no one else entering during the test.
- You need to have a table and chair to take the test.
- You must wear proper attire while taking the test.
- You should not wear nose pins, face masks, jewelry, tie clips, cufflinks, ornate clips, headbands, hair accessories etc.
- Your ear should be visible all the time during the test.
Conclusion
For the GRE test, ETS has not set any particular eligibility criteria. If you’re willing to take the test, have done a bachelor’s, or are about to pursue or dream of studying abroad, you can take the test. However, to score well on tests, you must understand the GRE syllabus and exam pattern and prepare for the test strategically.
Galvanize abroad study helps you prepare for the GRE test while understanding the requirements for admission to your dream college or university.
With Galvanize, you receive free sample papers for the GRE, a profile evaluation to learn how much effort you need to put in to get a good score, structured study plans and more.
FAQs Related to GRE Exam Eligibility
Can I apply for the GRE with 12th pass?
Yes, you can apply for the GRE even with only a 12th pass. However, the GRE is the test to pursue a masters from an international university. You can prepare for SAT if you’re considering an international admission test for undergraduation.
What are GRE requirements?
The primary requirement for the GRE is a valid proof of ID with name, photograph, and signature.
What are the qualifications for the GRE?
ETS does not define any educational qualification for the GRE. However, it’s a helpful test to gain admission to a master’s program. A bachelor’s degree is mandatory to use its score.
