GRE Exam Dates in India 2026–27: Test Dates, Registration & Best Time to Take GRE

If you are looking for GRE exam dates in India, the first thing to understand is that the GRE General Test does not have one fixed annual test calendar.

Unlike exams that are conducted on a handful of national dates, the GRE General Test is available throughout the year.

Your actual choices depend on:

• live test-center availability in your city;
• whether you prefer a test center or the GRE at home;
• your application deadline;
• how much preparation time you need;
• whether you want enough time for a retake.

ETS's current GRE scheduling page lets you search by city or postal code to see available locations and dates.

For test takers in India, that live ETS calendar is the source that matters. Static lists of "available dates" can become outdated quickly as seats are booked, added, or removed.

GRE Exam Dates in India: Quick Overview

The scheduling strategy is therefore different for the General Test and Subject Tests.

Are There Fixed GRE General Test Dates in India?

No.

The GRE General Test is offered continuously throughout the year in most regions, including India.

ETS operates a network of authorized test centers and lets candidates search current appointments using the official GRE scheduler.

That means there is no reliable article that can permanently publish:

"These are all the GRE dates available in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, or Chennai this month."

The exact answer can change as appointments are booked or released.

What should you do instead?

Use the ETS scheduler and search for:

1. your preferred city;
2. nearby cities if necessary;
3. a date range that fits your application timeline.

If your preferred test center is full, try:

• another nearby center;
• another date;
• the GRE General Test at home, if that format works for you.

Is the GRE Available Every Month in India?

Yes, the GRE General Test is generally available throughout the year.

However, year-round availability does not mean every test center has seats every day.

A particular center may have:

• several dates in one month;
• limited dates in another;
• no remaining seats on your preferred weekend;
• newly released appointments later.

The relevant question is therefore not:

"Is GRE held in November?"

but:

"Is there an open GRE appointment in my preferred location and format on a date that fits my deadline?"

GRE at Home Dates in India

ETS currently offers the GRE General Test at home as an alternative to test-center testing.

According to ETS's current at-home testing guidance, GRE General Test at-home appointments are available around the clock, seven days a week, subject to appointment availability and the country associated with your ETS account.

The at-home GRE is:

• the same GRE General Test;
• identical in content and format to the test-center version;
• taken on your own computer;
• remotely proctored.

Important at-home requirement

For tests booked and scheduled under the current process, ETS requires identity verification through its ID-verification system.

ETS recommends completing identity verification at least 72 hours before the test. If you schedule less than 72 hours before the appointment, complete verification immediately after booking.

You also need to meet the required:

• computer specifications;
• internet requirements;
• room requirements;
• camera and proctoring rules.

Do not choose the at-home GRE simply because the calendar looks more flexible. Choose it only if your equipment and testing environment meet ETS requirements.

GRE Test Center vs At Home: Which Gives You More Date Flexibility?

The at-home option normally provides more scheduling flexibility because appointments are offered around the clock.

Test-center availability depends on:

• your city;
• the number of authorized centers nearby;
• local opening days;
• available seats.

However, date flexibility is only one part of the decision.

Some candidates prefer a test center because:

• the equipment is already configured;
• the testing environment is controlled;
• they do not need to manage home-proctoring requirements.

Others prefer at-home testing because:

• travel is eliminated;
• appointment times can be more flexible;
• they are more comfortable testing from home.

The exam content and scoring are the same.

How to Find Live GRE Test Dates in India

The safest way to check dates is directly through ETS.

Step 1: Open the GRE scheduling page

Use the official Schedule Your GRE General Test page.

Step 2: Enter your location

Search by:

• city;
• postal code.

Step 3: Review available test centers and dates

ETS will show currently available appointments.

Availability is live rather than a permanent published calendar.

Step 4: Compare dates with your application deadline

Do not choose the first available appointment without considering:

• score-reporting time;
• possible retake;
• application preparation;
• program-specific score deadlines.

Step 5: Register through your ETS account

Your ETS account can be used to:

• schedule the test;
• change or cancel an appointment;
• view scores;
• send additional score reports;
• access the GRE Diagnostic Service.

Make sure the name in your ETS account matches your acceptable identification documents.

How Late Can You Register for the GRE?

ETS's current GRE Information Bulletin says candidates registering online should register at least two calendar days before the preferred test date.

That is a registration limit, not a planning recommendation.

Waiting until the last possible registration window can create problems such as:

• your preferred center being full;
• inconvenient appointment times;
• insufficient preparation;
• no room for a retake;
• score reporting too close to the application deadline.

If your deadline matters, book based on your full application timeline rather than the technical last date on which ETS allows registration.

When Will You Receive Your GRE Scores?

ETS currently says official GRE General Test scores are available approximately 8–10 days after the test date.

When choosing a date, remember that there are two different timelines:

1. ETS score availability
2. the university's processing time after receiving the score

ETS also notes that electronic score reports are delivered to institutions twice a week, and institutions may take additional time to process them.

So a program deadline of January 5 does not automatically mean January 4 is a safe GRE test date.

The school may require:

• the test to be taken by the deadline;
• the official score to be received by the deadline;
• all application materials to be complete by the deadline.

Always check the exact policy of the program.

How Far Before an Application Deadline Should You Take the GRE?

ETS tells candidates to allow enough time for:

• score reporting;
• delivery;
• institutional processing.

A practical planning buffer depends on whether you want a retake.

If you do not expect to retake

A reasonable planning target is to take the GRE at least 3–4 weeks before the application deadline.

That provides more margin than the official 8–10-day score-reporting window.

If you want one retake available

A safer target is 6–8 weeks before the application deadline.

That allows for:

• first GRE attempt;
• 21-day mandatory retake interval;
• second attempt;
• another 8–10-day score-reporting period.

These are planning recommendations, not ETS deadlines.

GRE Deadline Planning Examples

The table below shows how to think backward from a university deadline.

These are planning examples. Your target university's score-receipt policy remains the final authority.

GRE Retake Rules

ETS currently allows you to take the GRE General Test:

• once every 21 days;
• up to five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period.

The rule applies even if you canceled scores from a previous attempt.

Why the 21-day rule matters for test-date planning

Suppose your first attempt is November 1.

The earliest next attempt is 21 days later.

You then need to allow another 8–10 days for the new official score.

A first attempt scheduled too close to the application deadline can eliminate the practical value of the retake option.

Should You Schedule Your GRE Before You Feel Fully Ready?

Booking a test can create a useful preparation deadline, but the date should still be realistic.

Before choosing an appointment, assess:

• your current diagnostic score;
• target score;
• weakest GRE section;
• weekly preparation time;
• remaining syllabus;
• full-length practice performance.

A calendar date does not create readiness.

For a structured preparation framework, see our GRE preparation guide and GRE syllabus guide.

What Is the Best Month to Take the GRE?

There is no universally best month.

The best month is determined by your application deadline and readiness.

For December–January deadlines

A first attempt in roughly October or November can give you useful flexibility.

For later spring deadlines

You may have more time and can schedule according to preparation progress.

For applications in a future cycle

Because GRE scores are reportable for five years, taking the test well in advance can be a reasonable option if you are ready.

The strongest rule is:

Work backward from your earliest important application deadline.

Do not choose a month simply because it is commonly described as "GRE season."

Should You Book GRE Early?

Yes, if:

• you need a specific weekend;
• you want a particular test center;
• you are testing during a busy application period;
• travel is involved;
• your preferred city has limited appointment inventory.

But do not book an unrealistically early date just to secure a seat.

The ideal appointment balances:

• availability;
• preparation;
• score-reporting time;
• retake flexibility.

GRE Exam Fee in India in 2026

Effective August 1, 2026, ETS lists the GRE General Test fee for India as:

₹25,522 / US$249

ETS also lists:

• rescheduling fee: ₹5,650 / US$55;
• changing test center: ₹5,650 / US$55.

Fees can change, so verify the current amount on the official GRE fee page before paying.

For a complete breakdown, see our GRE exam fees guide.

Can You Reschedule a GRE Test?

Yes.

ETS's current registration rules require you to reschedule no later than four days before the test date.

If you miss the deadline, the test fee can be forfeited.

A rescheduling fee applies.

You can normally reschedule through your ETS account.

Can You Cancel a GRE Test?

Yes.

If you cancel by the current four-day deadline, ETS provides a refund equal to 50% of the original test fee.

If you cancel too late, you generally forfeit the fee.

The cancellation deadline should not be confused with the retake rule: canceling a GRE does not create an immediate new test opportunity if another completed/canceled administration triggers the applicable retake policy.

GRE General Test Dates vs GRE Subject Test Dates

The scheduling model is completely different.

GRE General Test

• year-round;
• live test-center appointments;
• at-home appointments available around the clock;
• candidate chooses an available date.

GRE Subject Tests

• only offered during specific testing windows;
• Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology;
• fixed score-reporting dates.

If your program requires a Subject Test, you have much less scheduling flexibility.

GRE Subject Test Dates 2026–27

ETS has announced these Subject Test windows for the 2026–27 testing year:

ETS currently offers GRE Subject Tests in:

• Mathematics;
• Physics;
• Psychology.

According to ETS's current Subject Test schedule, Subject Test at-home testing is not available in India.

That is an important difference from the GRE General Test.

GRE Subject Test Retake Rule

ETS currently allows a GRE Subject Test once every 14 days.

However, the practical opportunity to retake is constrained by the limited annual testing windows.

A program requiring a Subject Test may therefore require earlier planning than one requiring only the General Test.

GRE Subject Test Fee

Effective August 1, 2026, the GRE Subject Test fee is US$199 worldwide.

Because these tests have fixed windows, register early enough to secure a suitable appointment within the required administration period.

GRE Test Centers in India

GRE test-center inventory can change.

Rather than relying on a static list of addresses, use ETS's live scheduling system.

The official scheduler lets you search by city or postal code and see:

• current authorized locations;
• available dates;
• available appointments.

This is more reliable than using an old article that lists a center that may have moved, closed, changed providers, or stopped offering the GRE.

Why static test-center lists become unreliable

Test-center networks can change because:

• ETS adds or removes locations;
• providers change;
• individual centers change operating days;
• appointments fill up;
• temporary capacity is added.

For a test-date article, live availability is more useful than a long historical address directory.

How to Choose Between Test Center and At Home

Use this comparison:

Choose the environment in which you are most likely to perform well—not simply the option with the nearest available date.

GRE Registration in India: Step by Step

Step 1: Create or sign in to your ETS account

Make sure your account name exactly matches the identification you will use on test day.

Step 2: Choose the GRE General Test

Do not accidentally register for a Subject Test if you need the General Test.

Step 3: Choose test center or at home

Consider both availability and your preferred testing environment.

Step 4: Search for an appointment

For test-center testing, enter your city or postal code.

For at-home testing, review available appointment times.

Step 5: Check your application timeline

Before paying, confirm:

• school deadline;
• score-reporting requirement;
• retake buffer;
• your preparation readiness.

Step 6: Pay the registration fee

For India, the current General Test fee is ₹25,522 / US$249.

Step 7: Save your confirmation

Keep the appointment information and review the current ETS test-day requirements.

If you are taking the test at home, complete the required identity verification and system checks.

What Date Should You Choose If You Are Applying to Multiple Universities?

Use the earliest deadline that actually requires a GRE score.

Suppose your deadlines are:

• December 1;
• December 15;
• January 5.

Plan from December 1—not January 5.

Then check whether the December 1 program requires:

• the test to be completed by the deadline;
• the score to be officially received by the deadline.

That distinction determines how much buffer you need.

Should You Wait for a Better Practice Score Before Booking?

If your practice results are far below your target, waiting may be sensible.

But do not delay without checking appointment availability.

A useful compromise is:

1. identify your realistic readiness window;
2. check live ETS availability;
3. book an appointment within that window;
4. continue monitoring practice performance;
5. reschedule before the deadline if necessary.

Remember that rescheduling has both a deadline and a fee.

Common GRE Test-Date Mistakes

Relying on an old list of city-wise dates

GRE General Test availability is dynamic.

Testing too close to the application deadline

Official scores take approximately 8–10 days, and schools may need additional processing time.

Forgetting the 21-day retake rule

A late first attempt can remove your practical ability to retake.

Treating the Subject Test like the General Test

Subject Tests have fixed testing windows.

Booking an at-home test without checking technical requirements

A flexible appointment is useless if your system or room does not meet ETS requirements.

Choosing a date based only on preparation

Application deadlines matter too.

Choosing a date based only on the deadline

You still need to be ready to perform.

Frequently Asked Questions About GRE Exam Dates in India

Is GRE conducted throughout the year in India?

Yes. The GRE General Test is offered year-round, subject to live appointment availability.

Are GRE dates fixed?

Not for the General Test. GRE General Test appointments are scheduled throughout the year. GRE Subject Tests use fixed testing windows.

Is the GRE available every day?

The at-home GRE General Test is offered around the clock, seven days a week, subject to appointment availability. Test-center dates depend on the individual location.

How can I check GRE dates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, or another Indian city?

Use ETS's official scheduling page and enter your city or postal code. The live scheduler shows current test centers and available dates.

How early can I register for GRE?

You can schedule based on appointments shown in your ETS account. ETS requires online registration at least two calendar days before the preferred test date, but booking much earlier is sensible when you need a particular date or center.

How late can I register for GRE?

ETS's current registration bulletin says online registration should be completed at least two calendar days before the preferred test date.

When do GRE scores come out?

Official GRE General Test scores are typically available 8–10 days after the test.

How long should I leave between GRE and my application deadline?

For planning, 3–4 weeks is a reasonable buffer if you do not expect to retake. If you want room for one retake, 6–8 weeks is safer.

How soon can I retake GRE?

You must wait 21 days between GRE General Test attempts.

How many times can I take GRE?

Up to five times in any continuous rolling 12-month period.

Can I reschedule my GRE?

Yes. Under current ETS rules, you must reschedule no later than four days before the test date. A fee applies.

What is the GRE rescheduling fee in India?

ETS currently lists ₹5,650 / US$55.

What is the GRE fee in India in 2026?

For registrations on or after August 1, 2026, ETS lists the GRE General Test fee as ₹25,522 / US$249.

Is GRE at home available in India?

Yes, the GRE General Test at home is available in India under the current ETS framework, subject to the at-home testing requirements and appointment availability.

Are GRE Subject Tests available at home in India?

No. ETS currently states that Subject Test at-home testing is not available in India.

What are the GRE Subject Test dates for 2026–27?

The official windows are:

• September 14–27, 2026
• October 19–November 1, 2026
• April 19–May 2, 2027

How quickly are Subject Test scores released?

For the 2026–27 windows, ETS lists official score-reporting dates of October 5, 2026; November 9, 2026; and May 10, 2027 respectively.

What is the best GRE date for Fall 2027 admissions?

There is no universal best date. Work backward from your earliest program deadline and leave enough time for score reporting and, ideally, one retake.

Final Takeaway

The most important fact about GRE exam dates in India is simple:

The GRE General Test is available year-round, but the date that is right for you depends on live appointment availability and your application timeline.

Do not plan from a static list of city-wise dates.

Instead:

1. identify your earliest important application deadline;
2. check the program's score-receipt policy;
3. leave 8–10 days for official score reporting;
4. add institutional processing time;
5. leave 21 days plus another score-reporting window if you want a retake;
6. search live ETS test-center or at-home appointments;
7. choose a date that matches both readiness and admissions timing.

For GRE Subject Tests, use the fixed 2026–27 testing windows instead.

That approach gives you a schedule based on the rules that actually matter—not a calendar that can become outdated as soon as appointments change.