For many Indian students, studying abroad is not just an ambition, but it is also a carefully planned next step. That scheme views the GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, as key.
More Indian students in recent years have taken the GRE than students from the United States, showing just how seriously it’s being considered here. Countries such as Canada, the US, and the UK, together with Australia, welcome large numbers of Indian students. Indian students who perform well on the GRE can access superb universities, scholarships, and easier visa approvals.
This is a guide that helps Indian students. The GRE is easier using it. You’ll find everything for confidently moving ahead whether starting out or deep into preparation.
Why This Guide Matters?
- Tailored insights on GRE for Indian students
- Complete registration to preparation overview
- Smart study plans and strategies
- Exclusive tips to save money on international money transfers
- Special focus on scholarships and GRE fee waivers
Need to pay your university fees and living expenses abroad?
Make international money transfers easier than ever! Enjoy no paperwork, secure & swift transfers, and real-time tracking.
What is the GRE and Why is It Important?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a globally recognized standardized test evaluating a student’s quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Most of the graduate programs do consider GRE scores as a critical component in the process of their admissions, especially if it is in the United States. The programs do value these scores at the time of admissions.
Assessing students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds is achieved by the exam’s uniform benchmark. The GRE’s wide acceptance among countries and its role in securing scholarships and assistantships have made it gain traction for Indian students.
Why Should Indian Students Take the GRE?
- Required for admission to MS, MBA and PhD programs in countries including the USA, Canada, UK, Australia and parts of Europe
- Helps improve student visa approval chances by demonstrating academic readiness
- A growing number of MBA programs, such as Harvard, Stanford and ISB accept the GRE instead of the GMAT
- High scores can lead to financial aid, fee waivers and assistantships
GRE for Indian students also provides flexibility to apply to a wide range of academic disciplines and institutions, enhancing the value of the exam.
Here are a few surprising facts about the GRE for Indian students that might change how you plan your application.
GRE for Indian Students: Exam Structure and Format
There are two major types of GRE exams:
| Test Type | Purpose | Sections Included |
| GRE General Test | Admission to graduate programs | Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning |
| GRE Subject Test | Required for specific subjects | Subject-specific questions (Math, Physics, Psychology) |
Most Indian students preparing for postgraduate study abroad opt for the GRE General Test.
GRE Exam Format
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Score Range |
| Analytical Writing | 2 tasks (Issue and Argument) | 60 minutes | 0 to 6 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 40 questions | 60 minutes | 130 to 170 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 40 questions | 70 minutes | 130 to 170 |
The total test duration is around 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Understanding this format is essential for GRE for Indian students to align their preparation strategy effectively.
Also know: Tax-Free Sending Money from India to the USA
What is a Good GRE Score for Indian Students?
| Score Range | University Type |
| 320 and above | Ivy League and Top 10 global universities |
| 310 to 320 | Top 50 universities |
| 300 to 310 | Mid-tier universities with scholarship potential |
Aim for a minimum of 4.0 in Analytical Writing to stand out, as this is often the most challenging section for Indian test-takers. A strong verbal and quant score can significantly boost the application strength, especially for GRE for Indian students targeting elite institutions.
GRE Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
There is no specific eligibility bar to take the GRE. However, it is most suitable for students who are:
- Graduates or in the final year of graduation
- Aspiring to pursue higher studies abroad in science, business, arts, or engineering fields
The GRE for Indian students offers wide access, making it a go-to exam for various postgraduate pathways.
GRE Registration Process and Fees in India
How to Register for the GRE?
- Visit the official ETS website and create an account
- Select your test center and available date
- Pay the GRE fee using an international debit/credit card
- Book your slot and start your preparation
GRE Exam Fee for Indian Students
- GRE General Test Fee: USD 228 (approximately INR 19,000)
- GRE Subject Test Fee: USD 150 (approximately INR 12,500)
When planning to register for the GRE, Indian students should also consider the currency exchange and transaction method for payment.
GRE Fee Waiver for Indian Students
ETS offers a Fee Reduction Program for financially constrained students. Some universities also reimburse GRE exam fees upon admission. Indian students can apply through designated financial assistance routes provided by ETS or local educational bodies.
This is an important advantage of the GRE for Indian students from modest financial backgrounds.
Also read: NOSTRO Account Explained: 7 Powerful Insights for Smarter Global Payments
Is GRE Tough for Indian Students?
While the GRE is rigorous, it is very achievable with disciplined preparation. Analytical Writing is usually the most difficult for Indian students, followed by Verbal Reasoning due to its vocabulary intensity. Quantitative reasoning is generally manageable for students with a technical background.
GRE for Indian students becomes significantly easier with a structured preparation plan and consistent mock testing.
GRE Study Plan for Indian Students
Ideal Study Duration
| Profile | Daily Study Time | Duration |
| Full-time students | 4–6 hours | 3–6 months |
| Working professionals | 2–3 hours + weekends | 4–6 months |
Top Study Materials
- ETS Official Guide
- Manhattan 5lb Book (for Quantitative practice)
- Barron’s 1100 Words and Word Power Made Easy (for Verbal)
- Online platforms like Magoosh, GREedge and Princeton Review
Learn more: PTE Exam Dates in Ludhiana: Test Centers, Booking Process & Study Abroad Finances
Mock Test Strategy
Take at least 6 to 8 full-length mock tests. Simulate real test conditions to improve timing and reduce anxiety. GRE for Indian students planning self-study should prioritize timed mocks.
When to Start Preparing for GRE?
Ideally, start your preparation at least six months before your intended test date. Final-year undergraduate students or those planning a master’s program should align GRE test dates with university application timelines.
GRE for Indian students is most effective when preparation starts early and follows a consistent schedule.
Universities Accepting GRE Score between 310 and 320
Many reputed universities in the US, Canada and Europe accept GRE scores in this range. These include:
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of British Columbia
- University of Manchester
- Arizona State University
- Technical University of Munich (select programs)
Shortlisting universities based on your GRE score is a vital step for Indian students to maximize their admissions success.
How to Save on International Transactions While Studying Abroad?
Indian students often face challenges with international money transfers, including
- High remittance fees by traditional banks
- Unfavorable exchange rates due to hidden markups
- Delays in fund transfers impacting deadlines
Introducing HOP Remit by moneyHOP
HOP Remit by moneyHOP is the preferred platform for Indian students sending money abroad. It is designed to eliminate unnecessary charges and delays.
Why Students Choose HOP Remit?
- Zero forex markup: What you see is what you pay
- Transparent, ultra-low fees
- Swift transfers within 12 to 24 hours
- Easy-to-use interface tailored for education-related transfers
Take Action
If you are planning to pay your GRE fee or fund your overseas education, HOP Remit is the smarter, faster and more affordable choice. Visit moneyHOP and make your first transfer confidently.
Why pay more for international money transfers when moneyHOP is here?
- NO hidden fees
- ZERO convenience fees
- Real-time updates
- Lowest exchange rates
Conclusion: Prepare Smart, Pay Smart, Study Abroad
The GRE is just part of the process. You learn the format, practice what you can, and move on. No tricks to it just time and a bit of focus.
Paying stuff like fees? That’s another hassle. Don’t let that slow you down. Pick something that works fast and doesn’t eat up your money. HOP Remit worked for others; it might work for you too.
Nothing more to it. Prepare. Apply. Go.
Leave a Reply