GRE Exam Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Qualifications, and Accommodations

ETS, the conducting body of the GRE, has not set any specific eligibility criteria to take the GRE. The GRE is an entrance exam required for admission to MS and PhD programs in universities abroad. Therefore, it is taken by those who have an undergraduate degree.

For Indian students, the only requirement is that you hold a valid and updated Indian passport in order to take the exam. Moreover, the university you are applying to sets its own eligibility standards, or the GRE scores that you have to meet for admission.

In this article, we’ll look in detail at the eligibility requirements for Indian students to take the GRE.

GRE Exam Eligibility 2026

GRE eligibility does not include any age limit or educational qualifications. However, you need to meet the requirements in terms of ID proof to take the exam. Below are the GRE eligibility criteria that you are required to fulfill:

• ID Requirement: A valid ID will be required at the GRE test centers on the test day. Below are the criteria:
  • Only a valid and current Indian passport is allowed as ID proof.
  • The first and last names on the ID proof should match the name on the application form.
  • Photocopies are not accepted as ID proof.
  • The attached photograph in the ID proof must be recent, and the signature should be similar.

• Age Limit: There is no official lower or upper age limit to take the GRE. The exam is meant for students who want to pursue Master’s or PhD programs abroad.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates should have completed their bachelor’s in any domain from a recognized college or university. *This is not a strict eligibility criteria, but taken by undergraduate students.
• Gap after Undergraduate Degree: The gap does not affect the GRE eligibility. Candidates can apply for the exam irrespective of the gap taken.
• Number of Attempts: You can attempt the GRE 5 timesin 12 months (3 at test centers and 2 online). The minimum gap of 21 days must be there between two GRE dates.

Note: ID is not required during GRE registration

GRE at Home Eligibility 2026

GRE at home requires meeting some environmental and equipment requirements. ETS has designed the GRE at Home facility, where you can give the exam from the convenience of your home. You need to maintain these criteria for taking the exam remotely:

• You must use a laptop or computer for the test. Smartphones are not allowed.
• Using headphones or earbuds is not allowed.
• Internal and external communication must be done through a speaker.
• The room should be silent.
• Use a proper desk and chair.
• Sit in a place where the proctor can see you directly.
• Notes must be completely visible to the proctor.
• Erase all extra notes and show the same to the proctor.
• Dress formally.
• The webcam should provide a full view of the candidate and the background.