The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is the world’s most widely accepted graduate admissions test, opening doors to thousands of graduate and business school programs globally. For Pakistani students aspiring to study abroad, especially in the USA, Canada, and Europe, the GRE is often a crucial step. Here’s everything you need to know from eligibility to test-taking strategies.
What is the GRE?
Types of GRE Tests:
- GRE General Test: Measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills—required by most graduate programs
- GRE Subject Tests: Available in specific subjects (Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Literature) for specialized programs, particularly PhD applications
Purpose: Graduate school admissions, scholarships, and fellowship applications worldwide
Who Can Take the GRE?
- Eligibility: No formal educational requirements, though most test-takers have completed or are completing a bachelor’s degree
- Age: No minimum age limit
- Nationality: Open to all, including Pakistani citizens
- Identification: Valid passport required for registration and test day
GRE Test Structure & Scoring
GRE General Test Format:
| Section | Content | Duration | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | “Analyze an Issue” task | 30 minutes | 0–6 (0.5 increments) |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading comprehension, vocabulary | 2 sections, 41 minutes total | 130–170 (1-point increments) |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Math, algebra, geometry, data analysis | 2 sections, 47 minutes total | 130–170 (1-point increments) |
Total Test Time: ~2 hours
Mode: Computer-based
Score Validity: 5 years
GRE Test Requirements by Academic Field
| Academic Field | Masters Programs | PhD Programs | GRE Test Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering (General) | MS Engineering | PhD Engineering | GRE General Test |
| Computer Science | MS Computer Science | PhD Computer Science | GRE General Test (GRE Subject optional) |
| Business/MBA | MBA, MS Management | PhD Business | GRE General Test |
| Physics | MS Physics | PhD Physics | GRE General + GRE Subject (Physics) |
| Mathematics | MS Mathematics | PhD Mathematics | GRE General + GRE Subject (Mathematics) |
| Chemistry | MS Chemistry | PhD Chemistry | GRE General + GRE Subject (Chemistry) |
| Biology/Life Sciences | MS Biology | PhD Biology | GRE General + GRE Subject (Biology) |
| Psychology | MS Psychology | PhD Psychology | GRE General + GRE Subject (Psychology) |
| Social Sciences | MS Social Sciences | PhD Social Sciences | GRE General Test |
| Literature/English | MS Literature | PhD Literature | GRE General + GRE Subject (Literature optional) |
| Economics | MS Economics | PhD Economics | GRE General Test |
| Education | MS Education | PhD Education | GRE General Test |
Registration Process for Pakistani Students
- Create ETS Account:
Register at ETS GRE Official Site - Choose Test Type and Date:
- GRE General Test: Available year-round
- GRE Subject Tests: Offered 3 times per year (April, September, October)
- Select Test Center:
Available cities in Pakistan: Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi- Prometric Testing Centers in collaboration with USEFP
- Complete Registration:
- Fill personal and academic information
- Name must match passport exactly
- Pay Test Fee:
- GRE General Test: $220 USD (approximately PKR 61,000)
- GRE Subject Test: $150 USD
- Payment via credit/debit card or bank draft
- Receive Confirmation:
Confirmation email with test details and reporting instructions
Test Centers & Registration Methods in Pakistan
Test Centers:
- Islamabad: House #5, Street #17, F-6/2
- Lahore: House #19, Inside F.C. College
- Karachi: House #F-47/1 Park Lane, Block #5, K.D.A Scheme #5
Registration Methods:
- Online (preferred): ETS Official Registration
- Regional office visits
- Phone: +60-3-7628-3333 (Malaysia office)
- Mail/Fax to Malaysia regional office
GRE vs GAT vs GMAT: Which Test for Pakistani Students?
| Feature | GRE | GAT | GMAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Graduate admissions abroad (USA, Canada, Europe) | Postgraduate admissions in Pakistan (M.Phil., MS, PhD) | MBA and business school admissions worldwide |
| Test Format | Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical Writing | GAT-General: Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical; GAT-Subject: Subject-specific | Verbal, Quantitative, Data Insights (no writing) |
| Scoring | 130-170 per section (Verbal/Quant), 0-6 (Writing) | 0-100 scale, passing usually 50% | 205-805 total score |
| Duration | About 2 hours | 2 hours | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Test Mode | Computer-based | Paper-based in Pakistan | Computer-based |
| Frequency | Year-round availability | About 6 times per year | Year-round availability |
| Score Validity | 5 years | 2 years | 5 years |
| Best For | Students planning to study abroad | Students staying in Pakistan for postgraduate studies | Students specifically targeting MBA programs |
Additional Fees & Services
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Rescheduling | $55 USD |
| Changing test center | $55 USD |
| Additional score reports | $40 USD per recipient |
| Score reinstatement | $50 USD |
| Late registration | $25 USD |
Note: Cancel at least 4 days before test date for 50% refund
Here’s the official upcoming schedule for GRE Subject Tests in the 2025–26 testing year, as confirmed by ETS
- 📅 September 8–21, 2025 (scores available September 29, 2025)
- 📅 October 13–26, 2025 (scores available November 3, 2025)
- 📅 April 20 – May 3, 2026 (scores available May 11, 2026)
These are the only windows when GRE Subject Tests are available globally, including for test takers in Pakistan
GRE vs Other Graduate Tests: Key Points
- GRE vs GAT: GRE for international study; GAT for Pakistani universities
- GRE vs GMAT: GRE for broader graduate programs; GMAT specifically for MBA programs
- Score Acceptance: GRE accepted by 3,000+ programs globally; many business schools now accept GRE for MBA admissions
Preparation Resources & Tips
Official Resources:
- ETS GRE Prep Materials
- Power Prep Practice Tests (free)
- Official GRE Guide and vocabulary builder
Success Tips:
- Start preparation 3-4 months before test date
- Focus on vocabulary building for Verbal section
- Practice time management—especially for Quantitative section
- Take multiple practice tests under timed conditions
- For Subject Tests: Review undergraduate coursework thoroughly
Official Links
FAQs for Pakistani Students
Q: How often can I take the GRE?
A: Once every 21 days, up to 5 times in any 12-month period.
Q: Do I need both General and Subject tests?
A: Most programs require only GRE General; Subject tests typically for PhD programs in specific fields.
Q: Which is better for studying abroad—GRE or GAT?
A: GRE for international study; GAT only for Pakistani universities.
Q: Can I use a calculator?
A: Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided for Quantitative sections.
Q: How long should I prepare?
A: 3-4 months of dedicated preparation is typically recommended.
Final Note: We regularly update this guide with the latest GRE policies, fees, and preparation resources from ETS. Always verify current information on the official ETS website before registering to ensure you have the most accurate details.curate details.
