The GRE exam valid period is five years from your test date. During this time, you may send scores to graduate programs. After five years, ETS no longer reports your results to institutions. This policy applies globally, regardless of your country or program type.
Your exam valid window gives you flexibility in planning applications. You might work for a few years before applying to school. Or you could apply across multiple admission cycles without retaking the test.
ETS keeps your scores on file for the full five-year term.
Some universities prefer recent scores, especially in fast-changing fields. Check if your target program has internal recency preferences. Even if your exam valid period has not expired, they might. This is rare but worth verifying during your research phase.
Planning Your Test Date Wisely
Time your GRE to align with your application timeline. Taking it too early risks expiration before you apply.
Taking it too late may cause rushed prep or missed deadlines. Aim to test 12 to 18 months before your first application deadline.
Your GRE exam valid status ends exactly five years after testing. Scores cannot be reinstated once this period lapses. If expired, you must retake the entire exam. No exceptions are granted by ETS for expired GRE exam valid scores.
Strategic timing ensures your scores remain both usable and competitive