What Is a Good GRE Score for Top Universities in 2025-26?
GRE Exam 2025 is a crucial milestone for Indian students planning to pursue master's, business, or law programs abroad. Recognized by top universities in over 90 countries, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) serves as a gateway for higher education in the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and beyond. With recent pattern changes and wide acceptance, the GRE is a practical choice for those aiming for global education in 2025.
GRE 2025: Key Exam Highlights & Dates
Exam Highlights – 2025
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | ETS (Educational Testing Service) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based / at Home / Paper-based (limited regions) |
| Test Types | GRE General & GRE Subject |
| Duration (General) | 1 hour 58 minutes |
| Score Range (General) | 260–340 |
| Exam Fee (India) | ₹22,000 (General), ₹14,500 (Subject) |
| Score Validity | 5 Years |
| Accepted In | USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, 90+ Countries |
| Popular Test Dates 2025 | Jan–Aug 2025 (multiple dates/month) |
The GRE 2025 exam dates are flexible, with year-round slots offered in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and online at home. Plan to register at least 3–6 months in advance for popular intakes. The exam’s shorter pattern reduces fatigue and increases convenience for applicants.
Top Universities Accepting GRE Scores in 2025
Thousands of global universities consider GRE scores as a core part of their admissions. Not just the USA—institutions across Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, and Singapore are open to GRE applications, especially for STEM, management, and social science programs.
| Country | Top GRE-Accepting Universities |
|---|---|
| USA | MIT, Stanford University, Columbia University, Yale University, New York University |
| UK | University of Oxford, Imperial College London, London School of Economics |
| Canada | University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia |
| Germany | Technical University of Munich, RWTH Aachen, Heidelberg University |
| Australia | University of Melbourne, Monash University, Australian National University |
Many business schools now also accept GRE for MBA programs, making it a versatile option. Explore more leading options in our guide to the Top Universities in the World.
GRE Eligibility & Who Can Apply in 2025
There is no strict eligibility set by ETS for the GRE. Any student, regardless of nationality, age, or academic background, can take the test. Generally, Indian students attempt the GRE after or during their final year of bachelor’s, targeting postgraduate, MS, or MBA admissions abroad.
- No age or gender restrictions as per ETS
- Valid passport required for Indian test-takers
- Check university and course-specific prerequisites (many require an undergraduate degree)
- Some management courses prefer work experience, but it's not a GRE-mandated criterion
To know more about GPA/percentage conversions for overseas admissions, see our detailed resource on How to Convert 10-point CGPA to 4-point GPA.
GRE Exam Pattern & Syllabus (2025 Update)
GRE General Test now lasts under 2 hours. It measures critical skills in Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. You can review questions, change answers, and skip sections.
| Section | Questions | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 task (Analyze an Issue) | 30 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 2 sections (12 + 15 questions) | 18 & 23 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 2 sections (12 + 15 questions) | 21 & 26 minutes |
| Total Test Time | 1 hour 58 minutes | |
Find detailed syllabus breakdowns and prep resources on our GRE Syllabus page.
How to Register for the GRE Exam (2025 Admissions)
- Visit the official GRE ETS website
- Create your ETS account
- Choose test date, location, or online option
- Enter personal and academic details
- Pay the exam fee (₹22,000 in India)
- Receive confirmation email and slot details
Be sure your identity document meets ETS guidelines—usually a valid passport for Indian citizens.
GRE Exam Fees & Scholarships
GRE exam fee (General) in India is ₹22,000, and ₹14,500 for Subject tests. Extra services like rescheduling, changing test centers, or sending additional reports will incur extra charges (generally $50 per service).
| Fee Type | INR (India) | USD (Other regions) |
|---|---|---|
| GRE General Test | ₹22,000 | $220–$231 |
| GRE Subject Test | ₹14,500 | $150 |
| Rescheduling/Change Fee | ~₹4,200 | $50 |
Scholarships based on GRE scores are offered by many universities and government bodies. Higher GRE scores boost chances for merit-based waivers or graduate assistantships, especially in the USA and Europe. Check each university's scholarship page for requirements and also see our comprehensive scholarship guide for international students.
Post-Study Work Visa & Career Opportunities
Countries like the USA, Canada, Germany, UK, and Australia offer post-study work visas (PSW) for graduates. This enables Indian students to gain international work experience after their degree. GRE is often a preferred test for STEM, management, and research careers globally.
| Country | Post-Study Work Visa Duration |
|---|---|
| USA | 1–3 years (OPT/STEM OPT) |
| Canada | Up to 3 years |
| UK | 2 years (Graduate Route) |
| Germany | 18 months |
| Australia | 2–4 years |
A high GRE score improves employability in research-driven sectors, technology, consultancies, and multinational corporations. For more details on countries with strong PSW options, see our page on Best Countries to Immigrate from India.
GRE Preparation Tips & Resources
Effective GRE prep means understanding the pattern, timing, and using top books or online resources. Practice full-length tests, review mock papers, and analyze strengths and weaknesses. Many free online mock tests and guides are available to help maximize your GRE score.
- Start at least 3–6 months before your intended test date
- Follow the official GRE syllabus and pattern updates
- Use reputable prep books and online platforms for mock tests
- Focus on time management and adaptive strategies
- Review GRE sample papers for real exam practice
The GRE 2025 empowers ambitious Indian students to unlock educational opportunities at the world's best institutions. By planning early, understanding the process, and aiming for a high score, you can take a confident step toward your international career aspirations.
FAQs on What Is the GRE Exam and How Does Scoring Work in 2025?
1. What is the GRE exam used for?
GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination, a standardized test widely used for admissions into graduate and business school programs, especially in countries like the United States, Canada, and some other countries. Universities use GRE scores to assess applicants’ readiness for graduate-level academic work.
2. Is it hard to pass the GRE test?
The GRE is not a pass/fail exam, but the difficulty varies for each student. It assesses quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing. With regular GRE exam prep and practice, most students can achieve their target scores.
3. What is a 90% GRE score?
A 90th percentile GRE score means you have scored higher than 90% of test-takers. For 2024, this typically corresponds to above 165 in Verbal and 169 in Quantitative sections. Percentiles may change slightly year to year.
4. What is the passing score for the GRE?
There is no minimum passing score for the GRE. Each university or program sets its own GRE score requirements, so you should check the specific criteria for your target schools.
5. What is the GRE exam full form?
GRE full form is Graduate Record Examination.
6. Who is eligible to take the GRE exam?
Anyone with a valid passport and undergraduate degree (or final year students) can attempt the GRE exam. There are no specific age or academic eligibility restrictions, but your chosen university may have its own requirements.
7. What is the GRE exam pattern?
The GRE General Test consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Total test time is about 1 hour and 58 minutes in the new format. Sections are adaptive and scores range from 130 to 170 for each Verbal and Quant section, and 0–6 for Analytical Writing.
8. How do I register for the GRE exam?
You can register for the GRE exam online at the official ETS website. Create an ETS account, select your preferred test date and center, complete the registration form, and pay the GRE exam fee to confirm your slot.
9. What is the GRE exam fee?
The GRE exam fee for test-takers in India is US $220 (as of 2024). Fees can change, so always check the official ETS GRE website for the current amount.
10. What are the upcoming GRE exam dates for 2025?
GRE is offered throughout the year on multiple dates. For 2025 GRE dates, check the ETS official website for real-time availability at your preferred test centers. Early booking is recommended due to limited seat availability.
11. Can I use GRE scores for PA school admissions?
Yes, many US Physician Assistant (PA) schools accept GRE scores as part of their admissions criteria, but always confirm requirements on the specific PA program's website.
12. Where can I find GRE exam sample questions or practice tests?
You can find GRE practice questions and free sample tests on the official ETS GRE website, as well as in reputable GRE exam books and online platforms like Vedantu, Magoosh, and Manhattan Prep. Practicing regularly helps improve your familiarity with the GRE exam pattern and question types.
