Quick answer: If your internet disconnects during the GRE at Home, follow the proctor’s instructions immediately, try to reconnect without closing the test application, and document the incident. ETS requires you to report unresolved technical problems so they can review the situation; verify current incident and rescheduling policies on the official ETS GRE website because procedures and remedies may change.
Why this matters
Internet disconnection during the GRE at Home can interrupt your test session, cause lost time or paused sections, and in some situations require ETS to review or cancel a score. For graduate applicants a disrupted test can create stress and scheduling complications, and handling the incident correctly can preserve your chance to have a valid score reported or to receive ETS assistance. Knowing how at-home testing is proctored, what to do immediately, and how ETS handles reports reduces uncertainty and increases your chances of a satisfactory outcome.
Main explanation: how GRE at Home sessions and disconnects are handled
The GRE at Home is administered under live remote proctoring conditions using a secure testing application and continuous monitoring. Online proctors and automated security checks observe the session. If a network interruption occurs, the incident involves two interacting elements: the technical behavior of your computer and network, and the proctoring workflow.
Typical flow when a disconnect happens
- The testing application may freeze, show an error, or lose contact with the proctoring server. The proctor may use an in-app chat or audio to notify you they lost contact or to instruct you to try reconnecting.
- If the connection is briefly interrupted and you can reconnect quickly, you will often be able to resume where you left off. The proctor may pause the clock while resolving the issue, depending on the situation and ETS procedures in place at the time.
- If reconnection fails or the testing application terminates, the proctor or the testing vendor will log the incident and advise you on next steps, which typically include contacting ETS and submitting an incident report for review.
- ETS reviews incidents reported during at-home testing to determine whether your test will be scored, canceled, or otherwise addressed. The final decision rests with ETS after they review proctor logs, audio/video recordings, and any documentation you provide.
Because ETS policy and the proctoring vendor’s workflow may be updated, always check ETS’s official GRE at Home information for current instructions and remedies after a technical problem.
Requirements, rules, and eligibility related to internet disconnects
This section covers the items most relevant to avoiding and handling disconnections during GRE at Home.
Technical requirements
- Meet ETS’s published minimum system and internet requirements for GRE at Home. These requirements include supported operating systems, browsers or secure test applications, webcam and microphone functionality, and a stable internet connection. Check the ETS website for the most current technical specifications.
- Disable VPNs, proxy services, and personal firewall rules that interfere with the testing application unless ETS documentation explicitly permits them.
- Ensure your device has sufficient battery power and power settings are configured to avoid sleep, hibernation, or screen locks during the test.
Registration and identification rules relevant to disconnects
- You must register for the GRE using the name that exactly matches your acceptable government or institutional ID. This is separate from internet policies but important because a disconnected session that results in ETS needing to verify identity may require clear ID documentation.
- Keep contact information current in your ETS account so the proctoring vendor or ETS can reach you if there is a problem.
Documentation requirements
- If you experience a disconnect, save any evidence you can without violating testing rules. Document timestamps, error messages, and the proctor’s instructions. Do not attempt to capture images or recordings if doing so violates the testing terms; check what is permitted in ETS guidance.
- After the session, you may be asked to complete an incident form or submit a formal report to ETS. Provide clear, factual information and any requested documentation, such as photos of your test room setup or internet provider outage notices, if applicable.
Step-by-step process: what to do before, during, and after a disconnect
Before test day: reduce the risk
- Verify ETS system requirements and install the latest version of the secure testing application well before test day. Run the vendor-supplied system check from the ETS site.
- Use a wired Ethernet connection if possible. A wired connection is typically more stable than Wi-Fi.
- If you must use Wi-Fi, place your device near the router and minimize other devices on the network during the test.
- Temporarily disable large automatic updates and background apps that could consume bandwidth or restart your computer.
- Restart your modem and router before the test to clear any temporary glitches. Confirm your ISP service status. If you suspect unreliable service, schedule to use a different location with a reliable connection if permitted by ETS.
- Ensure your device’s power plan prevents it from sleeping. Plug the device into power to avoid battery-saving interruptions.
- Test the webcam, microphone, and screen-sharing tools used by the proctoring software.
- Know how to contact ETS or the proctoring vendor during the test; save contact details where you can access them quickly.
During the test: immediate actions if a disconnect occurs
- Follow on-screen and proctor instructions. The proctor may attempt to contact you through the testing platform or via alternate channels if connectivity drops.
- Do not close the test application unless instructed. Closing the app may log you out and complicate incident review.
- If you can still operate the device, try to restore your internet connection in order of least disruptive steps:
- Check Wi-Fi connection or switch to Ethernet if possible.
- Restart your router or modem only if the proctor instructs you to do so or if the proctor is unable to assist and you are certain a reboot is safe. Rebooting may take several minutes and could increase downtime.
- Disable VPNs or proxies if active.
- If the proctor instructs you to gather evidence or perform checks, comply. Keep a log of the exact time of the disconnect and any error messages shown.
- If reconnection is not achievable within the session, the proctor will log the incident and advise on the next steps for reporting to ETS.
After the test: reporting and follow-up
- Immediately follow any post-session instructions provided by the proctor or the testing application. You may be given a form or link to report the incident to ETS.
- Submit a clear incident report to ETS including:
- Test date and scheduled start time in your local time zone.
- Exact times of disconnection and reconnection attempts.
- A brief factual description of the events and steps you took to resolve the issue.
- Any error messages or screenshots if they are allowed by ETS.
- Contact information and confirmation that you are the registered test taker.
- Retain any ISP outage notices, router logs, or other supporting documents that corroborate a network outage.
- Monitor the email address associated with your ETS account for communications about the incident. ETS will review the proctoring logs and determine the outcome.
Common problems and solutions
Name mismatch or identity issues triggered by a disrupted session
Problem: A proctor or ETS requests identity verification after a disrupted session and the name used to register does not match your ID.
Solution: Bring the exact acceptable ID shown on your registration to any future testing or provide the same ID when asked by ETS. Correct registration names before another test if necessary. If you used an informal name, expect ETS to require identity confirmation.
Router or modem instability
Problem: Recurrent short disconnects during practice checks or the test.
Solution: Use a wired connection, upgrade or replace outdated router hardware, move the device closer to the access point, and limit other household devices using large bandwidth during the test.
Power outages
Problem: A power outage causes a complete loss of the testing session.
Solution: If allowed by ETS, schedule the test at a time when local power is stable. If a power outage occurs, report it to ETS and include any available confirmations from your utility company in the incident report.
ISP throttling or intermittent service
Problem: Slow or inconsistent internet despite appearing connected.
Solution: Run an internet speed test before the test to ensure you meet ETS’s requirements. If your ISP has variable speeds, switch to a more stable provider or a different testing location if permitted by ETS rules.
Inadvertent app closures or OS updates
Problem: Automatic updates or accidental app closure ends the session, possibly causing a disconnect event.
Solution: Turn off automatic updates and notifications, disable screensavers and sleep, and run a full system check before test day.
Practical examples and scenarios
Scenario 1: Brief Wi-Fi dropout, quick reconnection
During the Quantitative Reasoning section you experience a 30-second Wi-Fi dropout. The testing application freezes briefly but you do not close it. The proctor messages you when connection is reestablished, confirms you can continue, and resumes proctoring. You note the time of the dropout and, after the session, confirm with ETS if any timing adjustments were made. You file no further complaint if the proctor’s log shows normal continuation.
Scenario 2: Repeated short disconnects causing excessive lag
Multiple short disconnects cause the application to lag and interfere with your ability to complete questions. The proctor attempts to help but recommends you report an incident. After the session you submit a report and attach your ISP speed test results and router logs. ETS reviews logs and proctor recordings to determine the status of your scores and whether further action is needed.
Scenario 3: Complete session termination
Your test application terminates and you cannot reconnect. The proctor documents the failure and instructs you to contact ETS. You submit an incident report immediately and include photos of your testing setup, a screenshot showing the error, and an ISP outage confirmation. ETS reviews the full record and communicates the outcome. Because ETS policies change, outcomes may vary and are determined by ETS.
Comparison table: test center vs GRE at Home handling of disconnects
| Aspect | GRE at Test Center | GRE at Home |
|---|---|---|
| Proctor access to technical infrastructure | On-site staff can often resolve device issues quickly and offer an immediate environment change. | Remote proctors can guide troubleshooting but cannot physically access your device or network hardware. |
| Internet reliability | Test center supplies a managed, stable network for testing. | Relies on your home ISP; you control environment and connectivity quality. |
| Response to outages | Session may be paused or moved to another workstation at the center. | Proctor will attempt remote reconnection; unresolved incidents require ETS review after the test. |
| Evidence collection | Center staff can attest to conditions in person. | Proctoring recordings, logs, and your documentation are used in reviews. |
Frequently asked questions
1. If I disconnect, will my GRE score automatically be canceled?
Not necessarily. ETS reviews each reported incident using proctoring logs and recordings. Do not assume an automatic cancellation. Submit a clear incident report and await ETS’s determination. Verify current policies on the official ETS GRE web pages.
2. Can I be charged a re-test fee if my session is disrupted by an internet outage?
ETS determines remedies after reviewing an incident. Do not assume a fee or a free retest. Contact ETS for the official outcome and policy regarding any retake or fee adjustments for your specific case.
3. Should I reboot my router if I disconnect during the test?
Try non-disruptive fixes first, like switching to a wired connection or closing background apps. Rebooting a router can take several minutes and prolong downtime. Follow the proctor’s instructions before performing major actions like rebooting; the proctor will advise if a reboot is appropriate.
4. What evidence should I save if a disconnect happens?
Record the times of the disruption, note any error messages, and save screenshots if allowed. Keep ISP outage notifications or router logs if available. Include these items in your incident report if ETS requests supporting documentation.
5. Will ETS contact my Internet Service Provider to verify an outage?
ETS will primarily review proctoring logs and any documentation you submit. They may request additional supporting evidence from you, but direct contact with your ISP is at ETS’s discretion. Provide ISP confirmations if you have them.
6. Can I keep trying to reconnect on another device?
Switching devices during an ongoing session can violate the testing terms or complicate identity verification. Only switch devices if the proctor explicitly authorizes it. Always follow the proctor’s instructions.
7. What if the proctor instructs me to do something that I think will compromise my test?
Follow the official guidance in the testing rules and the proctor’s instructions. If you are unsure, politely ask for clarification in the platform’s chat so the interaction is documented. After the session, report any concerns to ETS for review.
8. Do policies differ by country?
Yes. Local regulations and available testing options vary by country, and ETS’s procedures may be adapted for regional or legal reasons. International test takers should verify local guidance on the ETS website.
9. If my test is canceled due to technical problems, can I request priority retesting?
ETS handles such requests according to their policies. If you need expedited scheduling for important deadlines, explain your circumstances when you contact ETS, and follow their instructions. There is no guarantee of expedited accommodation unless ETS states otherwise.
10. How long does ETS take to review a reported incident?
Processing times vary and ETS may update their review timelines. Monitor communications from ETS and check the official ETS GRE pages for guidance on expected response times.
Important notes
- ETS is the authoritative source for GRE at Home policies. Always confirm the latest technical requirements, incident-reporting procedures, and remedies on the ETS GRE website.
- Testing rules, allowed troubleshooting actions, and proctoring vendor procedures may change. The guidance in this article is practical advice, not a substitute for ETS’s current policy statements.
- Requirements may differ by country, and some regions may have restricted at-home testing options. International applicants should verify availability and local rules.
- Do not attempt to bypass security or monitoring measures. Actions that violate test rules can result in cancellation or other consequences determined by ETS.
Final thoughts
Internet disconnects during the GRE at Home can be stressful, but careful preparation and the right response reduce risk and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Before test day, verify ETS’s system requirements, use a stable wired connection when possible, and run full system checks. During a disconnect, follow the proctor’s instructions, avoid closing the test application, and document the incident. After the session, submit an incident report to ETS with clear facts and supporting documentation. For definitive policies and remedies, consult ETS’s official GRE at Home pages and the incident-reporting procedures in your ETS account.
