{"id":27817,"date":"2023-09-15T11:43:40","date_gmt":"2023-09-15T06:13:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/?p=27817"},"modified":"2026-04-09T16:51:19","modified_gmt":"2026-04-09T11:21:19","slug":"what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is the GRE Exam Used For? A Complete Guide for Indian Students"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-gray-200-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" open><summary><strong>Article Summary<\/strong><\/summary>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The GRE, conducted by ETS at a fee of INR 22,000 in India, is accepted in 90+ countries for MS, MBA, and PhD admissions, with scores valid for 5 years and a total test duration of 1 hour 58 minutes covering Verbal Reasoning (130\u2013170), Quantitative Reasoning (130\u2013170), and Analytical Writing (0\u20136).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beyond MS admissions, the GRE serves as a GMAT alternative at top MBA programs, including Harvard, Stanford, and Booth, is accepted by leading law schools like Harvard Law and Columbia Law instead of the LSAT, and can directly unlock merit scholarships, teaching assistantships, and tuition fee waivers for Indian students.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A score above 300 is considered competitive for most universities, while top schools like Yale and Stanford expect Verbal and Quant scores of 163\u2013166 each; students can attempt the GRE up to 5 times per year with a minimum 21-day gap between attempts, and submitting a strong score remains advantageous even at GRE-optional universities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are planning to study abroad, especially in countries like the United States or Canada, understanding what the GRE is used for is essential. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination), conducted by the Educational Testing Service, is a standardised test that plays a key role in admission to MS, MBA, and PhD programs worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But the GRE is more than just an entrance exam. It helps universities evaluate your academic readiness. Computer applications from different backgrounds, and even decide on scholarship and funding opportunities. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a working professional, knowing how the GRE is used can help you plan your study abroad journey more strategically and improve your chances of getting into top universities<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-gre-exam\"><span id=\"what-is-the-gre-exam\">What Is the GRE Exam?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is the full name of the test. Students who intend to apply to professional or graduate schools take this test. The following is a summary of important GRE information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Detail<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Full Form<\/td><td>Graduate Record Examination<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Conducted By<\/td><td>Educational Testing Service (ETS)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Accepted In<\/td><td>90+ countries, 1,000+ test centres<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Used For<\/td><td>MS, MBA, and PhD admissions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Score Validity<\/td><td>5 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Test Duration<\/td><td>1 hour 58 minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fee in India (General)<\/td><td>INR 22,000<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-gre-exam-used-for\"><span id=\"what-is-the-gre-exam-used-for\">What Is the GRE Exam Used For?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For students pursuing Master&#8217;s, MBA, or PhD programs, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) serves as a global entry point. It gauges your preparedness for graduate-level coursework and is administered by ETS. It involves verbal reasoning, mathematical thinking, and analytical writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-gre-exam\"><span id=\"types-of-gre-exam\">Types of GRE Exam<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you planning to pursue an MBA or MS abroad in 2026? The majority of international colleges require the General Test to evaluate candidates&#8217; general preparedness. A score on the Subject Test may be required for specialised programs. This is to confirm in-depth knowledge of math, physics, or psychology. The GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test are the two forms of the test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Particular&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GRE General Test<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GRE Subject Test<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Duration<\/td><td>1 Hour 58 Minutes<\/td><td>Mathematics (2 Hours 50 Minutes), Physics (2 Hours), and Psychology (2 Hours)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Section&nbsp;<\/td><td>Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing<\/td><td>Mathematics, Physics, Psychology<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-pale-ocean-gradient-background has-background\"><strong>Also Read: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/gre-analytical-writing\/\"><strong>GRE Analytical Writing: Types of Questions, Tips &amp; Samples<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-gre-exam-used-for-0\"><span id=\"what-is-the-gre-exam-used-for-2\">What is the GRE Exam Used for?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE is more than just an entrance test; it is a versatile exam that can open doors to multiple academic and career opportunities abroad. Here are the six key purposes of the GRE for Indian students:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ms-admission-abroad-most-common-use\"><span id=\"ms-admission-abroad-most-common-use\">MS Admission Abroad (Most Common Use)<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Primarily, the GRE is used as an admission criterion for Master&#8217;s (MS) courses in foreign countries such as the United States, Canada, and Germany. Even the best universities in the world, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, and Carnegie Mellon University, require GRE scores for courses such as Computer Science, Engineering, and Data Science, etc.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A good GRE score can greatly improve your chances of securing admission into the best universities in the World.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-mba-admission-gre-as-a-gmat-alternative\"><span id=\"mba-admission-gre-as-a-gmat-alternative\">MBA Admission: GRE as a GMAT Alternative<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, many business schools worldwide accept GRE scores as an alternative to GMAT scores in their admission processes. Many prestigious business schools, such as Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business, accept GRE scores in their MBA admission process.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Features&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GRE<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GMAT<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Score Range<\/td><td>260-340<\/td><td>200-800<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Section<\/td><td>Verbal, Quant, Writing<\/td><td>Quant, Verbal, Data Insight<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Difficulty&nbsp;<\/td><td>Vocabulary focused<\/td><td>Logic &amp; data focused&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Best for&nbsp;<\/td><td>MS+ MBA flexibility<\/td><td>MBA-focused applications<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want flexibility to apply for a Booth MS and MBA program, the GRE is the smarter choice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-phd-amp-nbsp-doctoral-program-application-nbsp\"><span id=\"phd-doctoral-program-application\">PhD &amp;&nbsp; Doctoral Program Application&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE is widely used for admission to PhD and research-based programs across STEM, Social Science, and Humanities. Field where GRE is commonly required:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Engineering &amp; Technology\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Physics, Mathematics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Economics, Psychology\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Literature &amp; Sociology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A high score, especially in Quant or Verbal, can strengthen your academic and research profile.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-law-school-admission-in-the-usa\"><span id=\"law-school-admission-in-the-usa\">Law School Admission in the USA<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An increasing number of law schools in the United States now accept GTRE scores instead of the LSAT. Top law schools accepting the GRE include.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Harvard Law School<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Columbia Law School<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Georgetown University Center<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This gives students the flexibility to apply to both law and other graduate programs using a single exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-scholarship-amp-assistantship-eligibility-nbsp\"><span id=\"scholarship-assistantship-eligibility\">Scholarship &amp; Assistantship Eligibility&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A strong GRE score can help you secure financial support, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Merit-based scholarships<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Teaching Assistantship<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Research Assistantships<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tuition fee waivers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For Indian students, this can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad, especially in countries like the United States and Canada.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Strengthening Application at GRE Optional Universities<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many universities have made the GRE optional, but submitting a good score can still give you an edge. You should consider submitting your GRE score if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your GPA is average or below expectations\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are applying to a competitive program\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You want to stand out among applicants<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important: <\/strong>&#8216;GRE optional&#8217; does not mean &#8216;GRE irrelevant&#8217;. A strong application can still improve your chances of admission and scholarships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-should-take-the-gre\"><span id=\"who-should-take-the-gre\">Who Should Take the GRE?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE is a flexible and widely accepted exam designed for students and professionals planning for higher education abroad. Whether you are just finishing college or already working, the GRE can fit multiple academic and career goals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fresh Graduate: <\/strong>Planning to pursue MS abroad in fields like engineering, business analytics or life sciences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Working professional:<\/strong> Looking to switch their career or planning to pursue an MBA abroad.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PhD Aspirants: <\/strong>For students aiming for a research-based program (PhD), the GRE is often required or strongly recommended.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Note: There is no official age limit or mandatory educational qualification required by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE. This means the exam is for individuals from all academic backgrounds and career stages.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-should-you-take-the-gre\"><span id=\"should-you-take-the-gre\">Should You Take the GRE?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask yourself these 5 main and simple questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Are you planning to study abroad (MS, MBA, or PhD)?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are your target universities in the USA, Canada, or Europe?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do your shortlisted programs recommend or require GRE scores?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do you want to improve your chances of a scholarship or funding?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is your academic profile (GPA) not strong enough on its own?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-country-wise-where-is-the-gre-accepted\"><span id=\"country-wise-where-is-the-gre-accepted\">Country-Wise: Where is the GRE Accepted?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE is accepted by universities across major destinations like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several countries in Europe. Understanding where the GRE is faceted can help you plan your application strategically and get the right universities based on your score.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Country<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Top Universities Requiring GRE<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Notes<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>USA<\/td><td>MIT, Stanford, CMU, Georgia Tech<\/td><td>Most widely required<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Canada<\/td><td>University of Toronto, UBC<\/td><td>Many programs accept it<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>United Kingdom&nbsp;<\/td><td>lmperail College London<\/td><td>Less common but growing<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Australia<\/td><td>University of Melbourne<\/td><td>Often optional&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Germany<\/td><td>TU Munich, RWTH Aachen (select MS)<\/td><td>Mainly for English-taught programs<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-country-wise-where-is-the-gre-accepted-0\"><span id=\"country-wise-where-is-the-gre-accepted-2\">Country-Wise: Where Is the GRE Accepted?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE is accepted across top study destinations like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. While it is most widely required in the US, many universities globally now consider GRE scores as part of their admission process, either mandatory or optional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Section<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Questions<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Time<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Score Range<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Analytical Writing<\/td><td>1 task<\/td><td>30 mins<\/td><td>0\u20136<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Verbal Reasoning<\/td><td>27 questions<\/td><td>41 mins<\/td><td>130\u2013170<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quantitative Reasoning<\/td><td>27 questions<\/td><td>47 mins<\/td><td>130\u2013170<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Analytical Writing: <\/strong>test your ability to analyse arguments and express ideas clearly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Verbal Reasoning:<\/strong> Focusing on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical reasoning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Quantitative Reasoning: <\/strong>Covers basic math, algebra, data analysis, and problem solving.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gre-general-test-vs-gre-subject-test-which-do-you-need\"><span id=\"gre-general-test-vs-gre-subject-test-which-do-you-need\">GRE General Test vs GRE Subject Test \u2014 Which Do You Need?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE offers two types of exams, the General Test and the Subject Test, but most students only need one of them. Choosing the right test depends on your course requirements and university expectations. GRE subject tests are only required for specific programs, mostly in technical or academic research fields. Most students only need to take the General Test.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-a-good-gre-score-section-wise-benchmarks\"><span id=\"what-is-a-good-gre-score-section-wise-benchmarks\">What Is a Good GRE Score? (Section-Wise Benchmarks)<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A good GRE score depends on the universities and programs you are targeting. However, as a general rule, any score above 300 in the GRE General Test is considered competitive for many universities. Here are the GRE score benchmarks by universities:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Business School&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GRE Verbal&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GRE Quant<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Yale University<\/td><td>164<\/td><td>166<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stanford University<\/td><td>164<\/td><td>164<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>MIT (Sloan)<\/td><td>n\/a<\/td><td>n\/a<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Harvard Business School<\/td><td>163<\/td><td>163<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>University of California at Berkeley (Haas)<\/td><td>161<\/td><td>163<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dartmouth University (Tuck)<\/td><td>161<\/td><td>161<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>University of Chicago (Booth)<\/td><td>162<\/td><td>163<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Columbia University<\/td><td>n\/a<\/td><td>n\/a<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gre-exam-fees-in-india-nbsp\"><span id=\"gre-exam-fees-in-india\">GRE Exam Fees in India&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE fee in India is set by the Educational Testing Service and may change slightly over time. As of 2026, Indian students can expect the following cost structure.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Fee Types&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount (INR)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>General Test&nbsp;<\/td><td>INR 22,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Subject Test<\/td><td>INR 14,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Score Report (per additional school)<\/td><td>INR 2,260<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rescheduling Fee<\/td><td>INR 5,000 (Varies)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Additional Score Report (per university&nbsp;<\/td><td>INR 2,900<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Test Centre Change&nbsp;<\/td><td>INR 5,000<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> ESI offers a fee reduction program for eligible students. Check eligibility before applying.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-pale-ocean-gradient-background has-background\"><strong>Also Read: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/how-to-prepare-for-the-gre-exam-at-home\/\"><strong>How to Prepare For the GRE Exam at Home<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gre-vs-gmat-vs-ielts-vs-toefl-what-s-the-difference\"><span id=\"gre-vs-gmat-vs-ielts-vs-toefl-whats-the-difference\">GRE vs GMAT vs IELTS vs TOEFL \u2014 What&#8217;s the Difference?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE and GMAT test your academic aptitude, while the IELTS and TOEFL assess your English proficiency. The right exam depends on your course and university requirements. Choosing the right test depends on your course, university requirements, and study destination. Many students may even need to take a combination of these exams.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Features<\/strong>\u00a0<\/td><td><strong>GRE<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>GMAT<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>IELTS<\/strong>\u00a0<\/td><td><strong>TOEFL<\/strong>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Purpose&nbsp;<\/td><td>Aptitude&nbsp;<\/td><td>Aptitude&nbsp;<\/td><td>English proficiency&nbsp;<\/td><td>English proficiency&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Use for<\/td><td>MS, MBA, PhD<\/td><td>MBA<\/td><td>Study\/Work abroad&nbsp;<\/td><td>Study abroad&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Score type&nbsp;<\/td><td>260-340<\/td><td>200-800<\/td><td>Band 0-9<\/td><td>0-120<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-register-for-the-gre-in-india-step-by-step\"><span id=\"how-to-register-for-the-gre-in-india-step-by-step\">How to Register for the GRE in India (Step-by-Step)<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Registering for the GRE is a simple online process through the official Educational Testing Service website. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you book your exam smoothly:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1: Create an IELTS Account<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit the official ETS website and sign up using your email ID. Make sure your name matches exactly with your passport, as it will be used for verification on test day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2: Choose the Test Type<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Select whether you want to take the GRE General Test (most common) or a GRE Subject Test, depending on your program requirements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3: Select Test Date &amp; Centre\/At-Home Option<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose a convenient test date and location from available GRE test centres in India, or opt for the GRE at Home version if you prefer taking the exam remotely.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Complete the payment (INR 22,000 for the General Test) using a credit\/Debit Card, UPI, or Digital wallets.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5: Download Confirmation (Amidyt Details)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation email with your test details. While GRE doesn\u2019t require a traditional admit card, keep this confirmation saved for reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 6: Test Day Checklist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before heading to your exam, ensure you have a valid passport (mandatory ID proof), confirmation email from ETS and reach the centre at least 30 minutes early.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip: <\/strong>Always book your GRE at least 2-3 months before your application deadlines to secure your preferred test date and allow time for a retake if needed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-long-are-gre-scores-valid\"><span id=\"how-long-are-gre-scores-valid\">How Long Are GRE Scores Valid?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>GRE scores remain valid for 5 years from the test date, as per the official policy of the Educational Testing Service. This gives you enough flexibility to plan your application, whether you want to apply immediately or a few years later.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-should-you-retake-the-gre\"><span id=\"when-should-you-retake-the-gre\">When Should You Retake the GRE?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You should consider retaking the GRE if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your score is below the requirement of your target universities. You are aiming for higher-ranked or more competitive programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There has been a significant gap since your last attempt. Improve your performance with better preparation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A better score can strengthen your application, improve admission chances, and even help you secure scholarships.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-pale-ocean-gradient-background has-background\"><strong>Also Read: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/blog\/category\/gmat\/\"><strong>Everything about GMAT Exam: Syllabus, Preparation, Fees<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The GRE remains one of the most versatile and widely accepted exams for studying abroad. Whether you are aiming for an MS, MBA, or PhD, it can open doors to top universities and scholarships worldwide. Even with the rise of GRE optional policies, a strong GRE score can still give you a competitive edge, especially if you are targeting top institutions or financial aid.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775733403279\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the FGRE exam used for?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The GRE is used for admission to graduate programmes like MS, MBA, and PhD abroad. It helps universities assess your verbal, quantitative, and analytical skills as part of the application process.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775733556499\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is the GRE required for an MS in the USA?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, many universities in the United States require GRE scores for MS programs, especially in competitive fields like Computer Science and Engineering. However, some universities have made it optional.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775733578780\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I use the GRE for an MBA instead of the GMAT?\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, many top business schools accept GRE scores as an alternative to GMAT. This gives you the flexibility to apply for both MBA and MS programs with one exam.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775733588898\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is the GRE accepted in Canada and the UK?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, the GRE is accepted in countries like Canada and the United Kingdom. While it is not always mandatory, many universities accept it as part of the admission criteria.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775733615067\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How many times can I take the GRE?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You can take the GER up to 5 times in 12 months, with a minimum gap of 21 days between attempts.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775733630088\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the GRE fee in India in 2026?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The GRE General Test fee in India is approximately INR 22,000 as set by the Educational Testing Service.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Planning your GRE strategy or confused about whether you should take the test? Connect with Leverage Edu experts to shortlist universities based on your profile, get a personalised GRE prep plan and improve your chances of scholarship and admission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related Reads&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-pale-ocean-gradient-background has-background\"><tbody><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/blog\/category\/gre\/\"><strong>Everything about the GRE: Syllabus, Dates, ETS GRE<\/strong><\/a><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/\"><strong>What is the use of the GRE?<\/strong><\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-should-we-carry-for-the-gre-exam\/\"><strong>What Should We Carry for the GRE Exam?<\/strong><\/a><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/how-to-register-for-the-gre-exam-in-india\/\"><strong>How to Register for the GRE Exam in India?<\/strong><\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/satp-gre-vocab-test\/\"><strong>GRE Vocab Test: Top Vocabulary Words, Toughest&nbsp;<\/strong><\/a><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/tests\/gmat-exam\/practice-papers\/\"><strong>GMAT Practice Test Papers: Download Free&nbsp;<\/strong><\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"If you are planning to study abroad, especially in countries like the United States or Canada, understanding what&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":83,"featured_media":27821,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"editor_notices":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[70,52],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-27817","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gre","8":"category-study-abroad-test-prep"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What is the use of GRE exam? | Leverage Edu Learn<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Know all about What is the use of GRE exam? 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His expertise lies in \u201cjobs abroad\u201d, all things practical, from writing articles on different topics such as part-time and full-time jobs to understanding salaries for different and highest-paying professions and securing internship programs in different countries. Aditya's passion is ensuring students have all the information they need to make the right decision about their career journeys overseas.","url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/author\/aditya\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733403279","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733403279","name":"What is the FGRE exam used for?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The GRE is used for admission to graduate programmes like MS, MBA, and PhD abroad. It helps universities assess your verbal, quantitative, and analytical skills as part of the application process.\u00a0","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733556499","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733556499","name":"Is the GRE required for an MS in the USA?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, many universities in the United States require GRE scores for MS programs, especially in competitive fields like Computer Science and Engineering. However, some universities have made it optional.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733578780","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733578780","name":"Can I use the GRE for an MBA instead of the GMAT?\u00a0","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, many top business schools accept GRE scores as an alternative to GMAT. This gives you the flexibility to apply for both MBA and MS programs with one exam.\u00a0","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733588898","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733588898","name":"Is the GRE accepted in Canada and the UK?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, the GRE is accepted in countries like Canada and the United Kingdom. While it is not always mandatory, many universities accept it as part of the admission criteria.\u00a0","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733615067","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733615067","name":"How many times can I take the GRE?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can take the GER up to 5 times in 12 months, with a minimum gap of 21 days between attempts.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733630088","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/what-is-the-use-of-gre-exam\/#faq-question-1775733630088","name":"What is the GRE fee in India in 2026?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The GRE General Test fee in India is approximately INR 22,000 as set by the Educational Testing Service.\u00a0","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27817","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/83"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27817"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27817\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":86106,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27817\/revisions\/86106"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27821"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27817"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27817"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leverageedu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27817"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}