GRE scores are valid for a period of five years from the date of the exam. This means that if you took the GRE exam today, your scores would be valid until the same date five years from now. The five-year validity period applies to both the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test.
It’s important to note that different universities or programs may have their own score requirements and policies regarding the GRE scores validity. Some universities may require that the scores be no more than two or three years old, while others may accept scores that are up to five years old.
Therefore, it’s important to research and confirm the score requirements and policies of the universities or programs to which you are applying and ensure that your scores meet the criteria before submitting your application.
If your scores have expired or are about to expire, you may need to retake the GRE exam to meet the score requirements of your desired institution or program.
How Long is the GRE Valid For?
GRE scores remain valid for a duration of five years from the day of the examination, encompassing both the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. It is imperative to note that different universities or programs may have their own specific score requirements and policies pertaining to the validity of GRE scores.
While some institutions may mandate scores that are not older than two or three years, others may accept scores that are up to five years old. Thus, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and ascertain the score prerequisites and regulations of the universities or programs that one intends to apply for, ensuring that the scores meet the stipulated criteria prior to submission of the application.
If the scores have surpassed their validity period, an individual may have to retake the GRE exam to satisfy the score requirements of their intended institution or program.
Also Read: GRE Score For Scholarship, Eligibility & More
Why do GRE Scores Expire?
GRE scores expire because they are not considered to be an accurate reflection of an individual’s current abilities and knowledge after a certain period. The GRE exam is designed to assess an individual’s readiness for graduate-level education, and the knowledge and skills required for such education may change over time.
Therefore, to ensure that the scores accurately reflect the current abilities and knowledge of an individual, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) sets a five-year validity period for GRE scores.
Additionally, universities or programs may have their own score requirements and policies regarding the validity of GRE scores, which may also contribute to the expiration of scores. It’s important to note that while GRE scores may expire, the knowledge and skills acquired through preparation for the exam can be beneficial for a lifetime.
Also Read: 7 Expert Tips to Maximize GRE Analytical Writing Score
GRE Score Validity Rules
The GRE score validity rules are essential to understand for anyone planning to take the GRE exam. Here are some of the important rules to keep in mind:
Five-year Validity Period
GRE scores are valid for five years from the date of the exam. This validity period applies to both the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. After five years, the scores will expire, and individuals will need to retake the exam if they wish to use their scores for admission to a university or graduate program.
Score Reinstatement
Individuals who wish to reinstate their expired GRE scores may do so by retaking the GRE exam. When retaking the exam, the new scores will replace the old ones. It’s important to note that the reinstated scores will still have the same original test date as the expired scores.
Score Reporting
Individuals can choose to send their scores to universities or programs at any time within the five-year validity period. It’s important to note that universities or programs may have their own specific score requirements and policies regarding the validity of GRE scores.
Score Requirements
Different universities or programs may have their own score requirements for admission. Some institutions may require scores that are not older than two or three years, while others may accept scores that are up to five years old.
Therefore, it’s crucial to research and confirms the score requirements of the universities or programs to which you are applying to ensure that your scores meet the criteria before submitting your application.
GRE Score Validity for Schools
GRE scores are an important component of the graduate school application process, and it’s crucial to understand how long the scores are valid for each school. While the Educational Testing Service (ETS) sets a five-year validity period for GRE scores, individual schools may have their own policies regarding the validity of scores.
Some schools may require scores that are not older than two or three years, while others may accept scores that are up to five years old. Therefore, it’s important to research the score requirements of each school to which you are applying and ensure that your scores meet the criteria before submitting your application.
If your scores have expired, you may need to retake the GRE exam to meet the score requirements of your intended program. Keep in mind that even if a school accepts scores that are up to five years old, a more recent score may be preferred, especially if there has been a significant gap between the date of the original exam and the date of the application.
Also Read: Most Effective GRE Preparation Tips 2023
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the validity rules of GRE scores is crucial for anyone planning to take the exam or use their scores for graduate school admission. The GRE scores are valid for five years from the date of the exam, and individual schools may have their own policies regarding the validity of scores.
Therefore, it’s important to research the score requirements of each school to which you are applying and ensure that your scores meet the criteria before submitting your application.
Retaking the exam may be necessary if your scores have expired or do not meet the school’s requirements. By keeping these rules in mind, individuals can ensure that their GRE scores are up to date and meet the requirements of their intended program.
Also Read: GMAT vs GRE: Which Should I Take?
FAQs – What is the GRE Score Validity?
How long are GRE scores valid?
GRE scores are valid for five years from the date of the exam.
Can I reinstate my expired GRE scores?
Yes, you can reinstate your expired GRE scores by retaking the exam. The new scores will replace the old ones, but they will still have the same original test date as the expired scores.
Do individual schools have their own policies regarding the validity of GRE scores?
Yes, individual schools may have their own policies regarding the validity of GRE scores. Some schools may require scores that are not older than two or three years, while others may accept scores that are up to five years old.
Can I send my GRE scores to universities or programs at any time within the validity period?
Yes, individuals can choose to send their GRE scores to universities or programs at any time within the five-year validity period.
Is there a limit to the number of times I can take the GRE exam?
Yes, individuals can take the GRE exam once every 21 days (about 3 weeks), up to five times within a continuous rolling 12-month period. After that, individuals must wait for 12 months before taking the exam again.