GRE Test Dates 2025: Registration Deadlines & Availability
Plan your GRE test strategically with our comprehensive guide to test dates, registration deadlines, and scheduling best practices.
GRE Test Availability
Computer-Based GRE General Test
- • Availability: Year-round, 365 days per year
- • Frequency: Multiple time slots daily at most centers
- • Locations: Available in most countries worldwide
- • Scheduling: First-come, first-served basis
- • Peak times: Weekends and evenings fill up fastest
Paper-Based GRE General Test
- • Availability: Only where computer testing is not available
- • Frequency: Up to 3 times per year (February, October, November)
- • Locations: Limited locations in select countries
- • Registration: Must register well in advance
2025 Key GRE Test Dates & Deadlines
MBA Application Deadlines
Plan your GRE around these key dates
| Round | Typical Deadline |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | Sept 10-20, 2025 |
| Round 2 | Jan 5-15, 2026 |
| Round 3 | March 15-Apr 15, 2026 |
*Take GRE at least 3-4 weeks before application deadlines
Recommended Test Dates
Strategic timing for MBA applicants
| For Round | Take GRE By |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | August 15, 2025 |
| Round 2 | December 1, 2025 |
| Round 3 | February 15, 2026 |
*Allows time for retakes if needed
GRE Registration Timeline
Begin preparation
Start studying and take diagnostic test
Register for test
Book your preferred date and location
Intensive preparation
Take practice tests, finalize test center logistics
Final preparation
Light review, confirm test appointment
Take the GRE
Arrive 30 minutes early with required ID
Receive official scores
Scores available in ETS account
How to Register for the GRE
Online Registration (Recommended)
- 1. Create or log in to your ETS account
- 2. Select "Register for a Test"
- 3. Choose test type (GRE General Test)
- 4. Select test center and available date
- 5. Complete personal information
- 6. Choose score recipients (4 free)
- 7. Pay registration fee
- 8. Print confirmation and admission ticket
Other Registration Methods
By Phone
1-800-GRE-CALL (US) or regional numbers
$10 additional fee applies
By Mail
Download and mail registration form
Allow 3 weeks processing time
Test Center Walk-in
Subject to availability
$25 late fee + higher risk of no seats
Test Date Selection Best Practices
Do's
- ✓ Register 2-3 months in advance for best availability
- ✓ Choose morning slots if you're a morning person
- ✓ Select a familiar test center if possible
- ✓ Allow buffer time for potential retakes
- ✓ Consider your work/school schedule
- ✓ Book hotels early for out-of-town centers
Don'ts
- ✗ Don't schedule right before major work deadlines
- ✗ Don't pick dates during busy travel seasons
- ✗ Don't wait until slots are limited
- ✗ Don't schedule back-to-back with other tests
- ✗ Don't forget the 21-day retake rule
- ✗ Don't book without checking application deadlines
Special Testing Arrangements
Disability Accommodations
- • Extended time (50% or 100% additional)
- • Extra breaks
- • Large print or screen magnification
- • Must apply 6 weeks before desired test date
Monday Test Dates
Available for those who cannot test on Saturday due to religious observance. Must request when registering.
Military Testing
Special testing available at military installations worldwide. Contact base education office for details.
Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies
| Timing | Reschedule | Cancel |
|---|---|---|
| 4+ days before test | $50 fee | 50% refund |
| Less than 4 days | Not allowed | No refund |
Ready to Schedule Your GRE?
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