GRE General Test
The ETS graduate admissions test of verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing. Many computer science programmes have made it optional, so take it only if your list requires or recommends it; the official site has free practice tests and the current fees.
Platform
Career Growth
ETS
1 hour 58 minutes
All
Free
What it is
The GRE General Test is a standardised test for graduate admissions, run by ETS. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing. As of 2026-09 ETS lists the test at 1 hour 58 minutes, and scores are reportable for five years after the test date. You can take it at a test centre or at home.
Do you need it?
For many computer science and engineering programmes the answer is now "no": a large number of programmes, especially in the United States, have made the GRE optional or stopped considering it, while others still require or recommend it, and some funding or scholarship decisions may use it. There is no single official list, so check each programme's current admissions page, not forum posts from past years. Outside the United States the GRE is asked for much less often.
When it can help
A strong quantitative score can support an application with a weaker or unusual academic record, a degree from a university the committee does not know, or a switch from another field. If a programme says the GRE is optional and you are confident of a strong score, it can add evidence. If your record is already strong, the time may be better spent on research or your statement.
How to prepare
- Take the free official practice test to see where you stand.
- Focus on the quantitative section if you are applying to technical programmes, and practise the writing task under time.
- Plan the test at least two to three months before deadlines, leaving room for a retake.
- Learn how score reporting works: ETS lets you send scores to institutions, with some free reports included at the time of the test and fees for more.
Free or paid
As of 2026-09 the ETS fees page lists 249 US dollars in most of the world, with different prices in some countries such as China and India. Official practice materials include free tests.
Common questions
Does an optional GRE hurt me if I do not send it? Programmes that call it optional generally say they do not penalise applicants who do not submit, but read their exact wording.
How long is a score valid? Scores are reportable for five years after the test date.
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