Assessment Office

GRE

GRE Overview

The GRE General Test is a standardized aptitude test that reflects what kind of thinking you may do in a graduate program. It measures your skills in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.

  • The GRE General and Subject Tests are both available in test centers and at-home.
  • Beginning September 22, 2023, the GRE General Test will be shortened from 4 hours long to just under 2 hours long.
    • There are 46 fewer Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning questions for a total of 27 Verbal Reasoning and 27 Quantitative Reasoning questions.
  • Current Test Fees (See full fee schedule here)

    • General Test, most locations: $249

    • General Test, China: $231.30

    • Rescheduling, most locations: $55

    • Rescheduling, China: $53.90

    • Fee Reduction Program:

      • Eligible test takers pay $100 instead of $249, plus get free POWERPREP PLUS + ScoreItNow! prep (~$100 value)

      • Who qualifies? Financial-need students (SAI of 0 or less), unemployed in the last 6 months, active Peace Corps volunteers, or members of 30+ ETS partner orgs

      • Apply via ETS's Fee Reduction Request Form; voucher email arrives ~2 weeks after approval

  • UMD's score code
  • To learn more about the at home test, register for an upcoming webinar or visit the web pages for Institutions and GRE Test Takers.
  • Test Centers and Dates to find current available seats for the GRE exams.
  • GRE Registration ID Requirements.
  • Accommodations for Test Takers with Disabilities or Health-related Needs.
  • ETS is posting videos, developing registration checklists, and hosting Facebook Live Events in order to help test takers understand the new online testing process.
  • The GRE Program has introduced free GRE test preparation modules for advisors and educators who conduct workshops with students.
  • Students can access free test prep resources directly on the GRE website.
  • POWERPREP
    • 2 full-length, FREE POWERPREP online practice tests
      • 1 untimed, 1 timed
      • Correct answers to Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning questions
      • Scored Analytical Writing sample essays with rater commentary
      • A report that summarizes your performance
    • POWERPREP PLUS Online- $44.95/test
      • Experience a realistic exam with instant scoring and detailed score reports
      • Review scored Analytical Writing essays with expert commentary
      • Understand what's being tested and how scoring works
      • Access clear explanations and difficulty levels for all question types
      • Practice effective test-taking strategies like time management in timed conditions
      • Get familiar with testing tools, including the on-screen calculator
      • Navigate freely between questions and change answers within sections

Admission to Graduate Education Programs

Note: GRE requirements vary by program.