When is the GRE exam conducted and how often?
The GRE General Test runs year-round, seven days a week, with no fixed calendar. You can retake it once every 21 days and up to five times in any rolling twelve months. The at-home version is available 24/7, while Subject Tests run only in September, October and April.
Good news if you are planning your test window: the GRE General Test has no single global date. You can book almost any day, subject to slot availability, which means you control the timing around your application deadlines rather than waiting for a fixed session.
GRE Retake and Frequency Rules
| Test | Frequency | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|
| GRE General Test | Once every 21 days | Up to 5 times per rolling 12 months |
| GRE Subject Test | Once every 14 days | Held in Sept, Oct and April only |
Where and How to Book
| Format | Availability |
|---|---|
| Prometric test centre | Multiple days a week; book 3 to 4 months ahead in peak season |
| GRE at Home | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, General Test only |
My Advice
Lock your GRE seat three to four months before your 2026 or 2027 deadlines, since slots in major Indian cities fill fast during Fall and Spring cycles. Plan for one possible retake by leaving a 21-day gap, and choose the at-home format if you want maximum date flexibility.
More expert answers
The GRE General Test is offered year-round in India, with multiple dates each month at Prometric centers - major cities have more frequent slots, while smaller cities may have fewer. You can also take the GRE at Home, often with appointments available within 24 hours.
GRE Subject Tests are held only three times a year, typically in April, September, and October, during set two-week periods. Dates and availability are subject to change.
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