If you’re planning graduate school in 2026, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is one of the most important steps in your journey. Every year, hundreds of thousands of applicants worldwide take the GRE to apply for master’s, MBA, or PhD programs.
But success begins not just with preparation, but also with planning your exam timeline. Missing a registration deadline or booking late can cost you valuable admission opportunities.
This guide gives you everything you need to know about GRE test dates in 2026 including a month-by-month test calendar, registration process, fees, rescheduling policies, and prep strategies so you’re ahead of the curve.
Why GRE Test Dates Matter in 2026
- Admissions cycles are strict: Many graduate schools, especially in the U.S. and Tier 1 countries, have deadlines between December 2025 – February 2026 for Fall 2026 intake.
- Seats fill fast: Testing centers and at-home slots can book weeks in advance during peak seasons.
- Re-take buffer: Most students need at least one re-attempt; registering early ensures you have time to improve your score.
- Global competition: With GRE accepted in over 160 countries, strategic scheduling is key to staying competitive.
GRE 2026 Test Dates Calendar
The GRE is now offered year-round at both physical test centers and as the GRE at Home option. However, certain months see peak demand.
Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of test date availability in 2026 (based on historical ETS scheduling patterns).
| Month 2026 | Likely Test Availability | Notes |
| January | 1–2 dates per week | Popular for students applying late or re-testing. |
| February | 1–2 dates per week | Ideal for early MBA applicants (Round 2). |
| March | 2–3 dates per week | Peak season starts; book early. |
| April | 2–3 dates per week | Many students take GRE before summer internships. |
| May | 3–4 dates per week | Heavy volume for Fall 2026 applicants. |
| June | 3–4 dates per week | Top schools recommend June/July attempts. |
| July | 3–4 dates per week | Popular re-test window. |
| August | 4–5 dates per week | Peak testing season, hardest to find open slots. |
| September | 3–4 dates per week | Last safe window for Fall 2026 deadlines. |
| October | 2–3 dates per week | Deadlines approaching; urgent retakes. |
| November | 1–2 dates per week | Late applicants only. |
| December | 1–2 dates per week | Final chance for Jan/Feb program deadlines. |
📌 Tip: ETS usually releases official test dates 4-6 months in advance. Always verify availability when booking.
GRE Registration Process for 2026
- Create an ETS Account
- Go to ETS.org/GRE
- Provide your personal details (ensure they match your passport/ID exactly).
- Choose Test Type
- GRE General Test (most common)
- GRE Subject Tests (offered only 3x per year; April, September, October).
- Select Format
- GRE General Test (most common)
- GRE Subject Tests (offered only 3x per year; April, September, October).
- GRE at Home (24/7 availability, requires secure environment)
- GRE at Test Center (traditional option).
- Pick Test Date & Location
- Use ETS’s scheduling tool.
- Pay attention to time zone differences for at-home testing.
- Pay Fees
- U.S. fee: $220
- Other countries: varies slightly (usually $220–$230).
- Confirm and Save your appointment email.
GRE 2026 Deadlines & When to Register
ETS doesn’t impose strict registration deadlines (you can often book up to 48 hours before a slot if available), but for practical success, plan 2-3 months ahead.
- Early Registration: January-March 2026 (for Fall 2026 applicants).
- Peak Demand: June-August 2026. Register 2-3 months ahead.
- Last-Minute Registration: October-December 2026. Only for emergencies.
💡 Best Strategy: Take your GRE by July 2026, leaving buffer time for re-takes before Fall admissions deadlines.
GRE Retake Policy in 2026
- You can retake the GRE once every 21 days, up to 5 times in any rolling 12-month period.
- Schools see all your attempts (ScoreSelect allows you to choose which scores to send).
- Plan your first attempt by June/July 2026 so you can retake in September if needed.
Cost & Financial Assistance
- Test Fee: $220 USD (as of 2026).
- Reschedule Fee: $50.
- Changing Test Center: $50.
- Additional Score Reports: $30 each after the free 4 reports.
- Fee Reduction Program: 50% discount for eligible U.S. students (low-income, financial aid, unemployment).
GRE Subject Test Dates 2026
GRE Subject Tests are offered only three times a year:
- April 2026
- September 2026
- October 2026
Subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology.
GRE 2026 Preparation Timeline
To maximize your score, align your prep with your test date:
- 9-12 months before exam: Build vocabulary, strengthen math fundamentals.
- 6 months before exam: Take diagnostic tests, start full-length prep.
- 3 months before exam: Practice with official GRE PowerPrep tests.
- 1 month before exam: Focus on weak areas, simulate timed tests.
- 1 week before exam: Light review, rest, and manage test-day logistics.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
- Waiting until the last minute to register (slots fill up).
- Overestimating prep time and booking too late.
- Not checking ID requirements for test centers.
- Failing to leave a re-take buffer.
- Ignoring at-home testing rules (quiet room, no interruptions, approved equipment).
Key Takeaways
- The GRE is offered year-round, but June-August 2026 will be the most competitive testing window.
- Register 2-3 months early to secure your ideal date.
- Plan your first attempt by July 2026 to allow for a retake if needed.
- Subject Tests are limited to April, September, October 2026.
- A strong prep plan + smart scheduling = higher chances of admission success.
Conclusion
Your GRE 2026 journey is about more than just test prep, it’s about timing, planning, and strategy. By registering early, aligning your test date with application cycles, and preparing consistently, you’ll not only maximize your score but also your chances of admission to top programs worldwide.
Bookmark this guide, and revisit it as ETS confirms official test dates. Preparing ahead is the smartest way to reduce stress and improve results.
