GRE Exam Score Validity for Test Takers in 2024

How Validity of GRE Exam Test Gets Calculated

GRE score validity is 5 years from the test date.  ETS will delete the score from its server. Schools/colleges won’t accept these scores for admission or other purposes. You’ll need to retake the test after its validity period. But how these scores’ validity for GRE gets calculated whether from the registration date, your test date, or result date. In this blog, we’ll learn all about GRE score validity in detail along with tips to retake GRE if your score has already expired. Many students get confused about which date to consider for GRE score validity: the registration date, test date, or result date. GRE conducting body, says the GRE score is valid for 5 years from your exam date. For example, If you have registered for the GRE exam on 20 December 2023, appeared for the exam on 15 January 2024, and the result was declared on 30 January 2024 (15 days from the test date), your GRE score validity will start with the test date, i.e., 15 January 2024. So, your score will be valid till 15 January 2029.

Why do GRE Scores Expire?

Now you might be wondering why the GRE score expires after a certain period of time. Universities, and colleges have five reasons for this:

1. Universities, and Colleges believe that applicants who took the GRE exam 5 years before might not possess the same skill sets today. For instance, someone who appeared for the GRE in 2017 might not have the same skills to tackle the GRE standards in 2024.
2. ETS also considers that maybe after 5 years, applicants develop some exceptional skills and can perform better than the last time on the GRE.
3. If the GRE score were valid for a lifetime, there’s a high chance that the number of candidates with GRE scores would only increase each year.
4. If the GRE score doesn’t expire, it would be challenging for ETS to bring changes to GRE exam patterns, GRE syllabus, and improve the quality of ever-changing sections like quantitative and reasoning of GRE.
5. Another important reason for the expiry of scores is that it keeps the demand for the GRE exam high.

What Happens if GRE Score Expires?

1. You Can’t Use Score: If your GRE score expires, you can’t use it anywhere like in your resume, for college admission, visa, or anything. 2. You Can’t Access GRE Score: After the GRE score validity period, you can’t access it through GRE websites. Since ETS removes it from its server upon expiry. However, if you have saved its PDF or uploaded it to your personal drive, you can access it. But it’ll be of no use.

GRE Score Already Expired; What’s Next?

Fortunately, the GRE doesn’t limit you from taking the GRE exam again and again. So, if your GRE score has expired and you need it, you can attempt the GRE again without stating any reasons or fulfilling any conditions.

Tips to Retake GRE Exam after Its Score Validity

1. Focus on Practice: Even if you scored well on the GRE exam earlier, you need to put in the same effort and practice. Quantitative and reasoning sections require you to prioritize practice. Solve sample papers and questions related to them in a time-bound manner.
2. Utilize Your Previous Experience: Since you have already taken the test once, you must have good experience. Use this knowledge, but stay flexible for changes if you find something incorrect.
3. Give Special Attention to English: English is an ever-evolving language, adapting to changes. Additionally, you might not remember vocabulary. So, give special attention to it.
4. Prepare with the New Exam Pattern: If you took your GRE exam before 2023, you’ll need to prepare with its new pattern. ETS updated the GRE exam pattern on 22 September 2023. Understand the new GRE exam pattern, the number of questions, difficulty level, and allotted time for the exam.
5. Stay Confident: The most important thing is to not lose your confidence. You can score well this time too; just focus on preparation and practice harder.

How Institutions View Valid GRE Scores

Preferred score ranges for top universities Top-tier universities often specify minimum GRE score requirements for admission consideration. A valid score within these ranges greatly enhances a candidate’s chances. Influence of GRE scores on funding opportunities Scholarships and grants often consider GRE scores as a key metric. A valid score can unlock financial aid options, easing the financial burden of higher education. Recognizing the validity period for admissions Universities acknowledge the validity period of GRE scores when reviewing applications. Ensuring a valid score aligns with admission timelines and requirements. Also Read: Best Programs to Study Abroad

Advantages of a Valid GRE Score

Impact on college admissions A valid GRE score opens doors to a plethora of academic opportunities. Universities worldwide rely on GRE scores as a metric for gauging a candidate’s potential, making a valid score essential for acceptance. Opportunities for scholarships and funding Securing scholarships and financial aid often hinges on a candidate’s GRE performance. A valid GRE exam score not only improves the chances of receiving funding but also highlights a student’s commitment to academic excellence. Boosting chances for program acceptance Competitive programs often set minimum GRE score requirements. A valid score not only meets these criteria but also enhances a candidate’s profile, making them a standout applicant.

Conclusion

If your GRE Exam score validity ends, you can plan to retake the GRE, or if you’re worried about its expiry, plan well for how you’ll use your GRE scores. No worries, as the GRE test has a more futuristic approach. The GRE total marks’ validity is more than that of IELTS and TOEFL. With the GRE test, applicants can plan to take the exam just after their graduation or post-graduation, gain some experience before moving abroad, and establish themselves in a foreign land. If you’re planning to take or retake the test, prepare for it using online resources, free YouTube classes, or enroll yourself in GRE preparation classes. Gateway International is an abroad study center that helps students prepare for standard international exams essential for admission to foreign universities and institutes. We help you achieve the highest score in GRE with personalized study plans, expert guidance, and performance analysis. If you have other queries related to GRE score validity, preparation, and need assistance in understanding GRE or other international examination systems. For further assistance or queries students can contact us, study abroad consultancy, and avail of our wide range of services for students on destinations like study in US, study in Singapore, study in Switzerland, study in Australia, study in New Zealand, study in Germany  and many other countries.