If you're asking "how much does GRE cost?" in 2025, the base registration fee for the GRE General Test is $220 USD worldwide (except China at $231.30), making it a key investment for US grad admissions. Administered by ETS, this covers the 1-hour-58-minute exam—computer-based at centers or at-home—with no format price difference. In India, it's ₹22,550 (approx. $270 USD), including 18% GST. For international students from high-volume regions like India or China, total costs can climb to $500+ with add-ons like score reports or rescheduling. But fee reductions drop it to $100 for eligible applicants, per ETS programs. This SEO guide details the full 2025 GRE cost breakdown, hidden fees, and savings strategies to keep your MS/PhD budget in check.
Official GRE Registration Fee Breakdown for 2025
The core "how much does GRE cost?" starts here:
- US & Most Countries: $220 USD for General Test (at-home or center).
- India: ₹22,550 (~$270 USD), up from prior years due to taxes.
- China: $231.30 USD (mainland only).
- GRE Subject Tests (e.g., Math, Physics): $150 USD, or $85 with reduction. Pay via credit/debit card on ETS.org—register 2+ months early for slots. No refunds for late registration, but vouchers ease the hit.
Additional GRE Costs: Score Reports, Rescheduling & More
Beyond registration, extras add up:
- Score Reports: 4 free schools at signup; $40 each additional (up to 10 via ScoreSelect). Applying to 8 schools? Add $160.
- Rescheduling: $50 if >4 days before test; full fee forfeited otherwise.
- Cancellation: 50% refund ($110 USD) if >4 days prior; nothing closer.
- Test Center Change: $50.
- Analytical Writing Rescore: $35–$40 (rare, 6-week wait). Retakes (21-day wait, 5/year) double costs—40% of takers do this, per ETS.
GRE Fee Reduction: How to Pay Less in 2025
Qualify for ETS's program if unemployed (with benefits), low-income (family <$42K USD), or via national partners like Peace Corps—reduces to $100 USD + free score reports. Apply early via ETS.org; limited vouchers. Indians: Check IDP/ British Council for local aid. This slashes "how much does GRE cost?" by 55%, ideal for budget-conscious applicants.
Total Estimated GRE Costs for International Students
For a typical Indian applicant: Registration ₹22,550 + 4 extra reports ₹6,000 (~$72) + reschedule ₹4,000 = ~₹32,550 ($390 USD). With reduction: Half that. Prep adds $100–$500 (Magoosh/Khan Academy free tiers help). Factor visa fees ($185) and travel ($50–$100 for center).
Tips to Minimize Your Total GRE Cost in 2025
Register once—aim 320+ on first try with 8–12 weeks prep. Send scores strategically (4 free). Avoid peak dates to dodge reschedules. Use free ETS PowerPrep mocks. For Indians, book via ets.org/in for INR payments. Track exchange rates—USD fees convert daily.
In summary, the GRE costs $220 base in 2025, but smart planning keeps totals under $300. Invest wisely; your grad apps (MIT, Stanford) are worth it—register today!