GRE At Home security rules: ID checks, room scans, permitted items, and monitoring

The GRE At Home security rules are the set of procedures, technical checks, identification requirements, and behavior standards ETS uses to protect test integrity when you take the GRE General Test remotely. In practice this means you must use a compatible computer with webcam and microphone, complete an identity check, allow a live or recorded room scan, follow strict rules about permitted materials and people in the room, and accept that your session will be monitored and recorded. Exact permitted items, ID types, and technical specifications can change, so verify current details on the official ETS GRE At Home page before your test.

Why this matters

Security rules affect whether you will be allowed to start or finish your GRE At Home session, whether your scores will be accepted, and whether ETS might flag your results for review. Violations can lead to score cancellation, exam invalidation, or investigation that delays score reporting and graduate application timelines. Preparing in advance to meet ETS requirements helps avoid test-day anxiety, technical interruptions, and administrative complications that can derail your graduate school plans.

Main explanation: how GRE At Home security works

High-level model

ETS uses remote proctoring and automated monitoring to enforce the same principles as on-site testing centers. Remote proctoring typically combines:

• Real-time video and audio monitoring by a human proctor or proctoring service.
• Automated flagging of suspicious behaviors or technical anomalies.
• Recording and storage of the testing session for later review.
• Identity verification and room scans to confirm the testing environment is secure.

These safeguards are intended to confirm your identity, prevent access to unauthorized information, and ensure a distraction-free, single-user testing environment.

What to expect during the check-in and monitoring process

Although specific steps and prompts can vary, a typical GRE At Home check-in sequence includes:

• Logging into your ETS account on the scheduled time and launching the test application or secure browser.
• Running a system check to confirm webcam, microphone, screen resolution, and internet bandwidth are adequate.
• Performing a live identity verification by showing a permitted government-issued ID that matches your registration name.
• Allowing the proctor or automated tool to guide a 360-degree room scan so the proctor can confirm the space is free of materials and other people.
• Clearing your workspace of prohibited items and showing the testing surface and floor.
• Receiving instructions about permitted breaks and permissible actions during the test.

Monitoring and recording policies

Sessions are monitored and recorded. ETS and the proctoring vendor may keep recordings and logs for security review. If suspicious behavior or a rule violation is detected during live proctoring or subsequent review, ETS can investigate, request additional information, and, if necessary, cancel scores. This means both the video feed and metadata (for example, disconnections or window switches) can be examined.

Requirements, rules, and eligibility

The following checklist covers the main categories of requirements you must satisfy to test at home. Because ETS updates policies, always confirm details on the official ETS GRE At Home pages before scheduling or testing.

Identification requirements

• Name match: The name on your ETS registration must exactly match the name on your government-issued ID you present at check-in.
• Acceptable IDs: ETS requires a valid, government-issued photo ID for identity verification. Which specific documents are accepted can vary by country. Consult ETS for the official list of acceptable IDs in your location.
• ID condition: The ID must be current and not expired if that is ETS policy in your jurisdiction. If you plan to use a passport, driver’s license, or national ID, confirm acceptance on the ETS site.

Technical requirements

• Computer: A desktop or laptop computer is typically required. Tablets and smartphones are generally not recommended and may be unsupported. Check ETS for specifics.
• Webcam and microphone: A working webcam and microphone are required and must remain on and unobstructed during check-in and the testing session.
• Internet connection: A stable, high-speed internet connection is essential. A wired Ethernet connection reduces the chance of dropouts compared with wireless networks.
• Software: You will need to use the ETS secure testing application or approved browser/launcher. Keep your operating system and browser up-to-date and close background applications.
• Display: External monitors or dual-monitor setups are typically not allowed. Only the screen used for the test should be active.

Testing environment requirements

• Private space: You must be alone in a quiet, private room for the entire session.
• Lighting: The room should be well lit so your face and workspace are clearly visible on camera.
• Workspace: Your desk should be clear of papers, books, electronic devices, and other materials unless explicitly permitted by ETS.
• No interruptions: Pets, family members, roommates, or others must not enter the room during the test.

Behavioral rules

• Do not use phones, smartwatches, or other electronic devices during the test.
• Do not communicate with anyone else or receive information during the test.
• Do not take screenshots, record the screen, or otherwise capture test content.
• Follow proctor instructions and report any technical problems immediately.

Accommodations and eligibility

If you require testing accommodations for a disability, you must request them through ETS’s established process well in advance. Approved accommodations can include extra time, extended break times, or other adjustments. The approval process requires documentation and can affect how your test session is scheduled or administered. ETS is the definitive source for the accommodation request process and required documentation.

Step-by-step: preparing for and completing a GRE At Home session

Below is a general, numbered guide to help you plan and navigate the GRE At Home process. Adapt the sequence to the exact prompts and instructions ETS provides to you during registration and check-in.

1. Confirm eligibility and decide whether at-home testing is right for you.

   Check ETS for country-specific availability, acceptable IDs, and any program restrictions that might affect your ability to test from home.

2. Register and schedule through your ETS account.

   When registering, enter your full legal name exactly as it appears on your identification document you will use for check-in. Select the GRE At Home option if available in your region.

3. Review ETS technical requirements and run the system check.

   Prior to test day, use the ETS system check tool to confirm your computer, webcam, microphone, internet, and required software are compatible. Run this check at least 24 to 48 hours before your test.

4. Prepare your testing environment.
   • Choose a private room with a clear desk and no visible materials.
   • Ensure good lighting so the proctor can clearly see you and your desk.
   • Remove phones, notes, books, and other people from the room.
   • If you will need scratch paper or approved materials, confirm ETS’s policy and have them ready if allowed.
5. Gather required identification.

   Have your acceptable government-issued photo ID ready and in good condition. Make sure the name on the ID matches your ETS registration exactly.

6. On test day, log in early and launch the test platform.

   Log into your ETS account at least 30 minutes before your appointment window to allow time for check-in and any last-minute issues. Run the system check again if prompted.

7. Complete digital check-in with the proctor.

   Follow the proctor’s prompts to show your ID, perform a room scan, and confirm your workspace is clear. Remain on camera and microphone for the full check-in process.

8. Follow proctor instructions during the test and for breaks.

   If you need a break, follow the proctor’s policies and procedures. Note that some breaks may be timed and monitored. Report any technical interruptions immediately via the proctor chat or according to ETS instructions.

9. Finish the test and complete post-test steps.

   Do not leave the camera or stop recording until the proctor confirms the test has ended and you are allowed to leave. Save or note any confirmation information provided by ETS.

Common problems and practical solutions

These issues come up frequently for at-home test takers. For each, the practical remedy and preventative steps are provided.

Name mismatch between registration and ID

• Problem: The name on your registration does not match the name on your ID.
• Solution: Update your registration or obtain an acceptable ID that matches your registered name before test day. Do not assume a proctor can accept a nickname or alternate spelling.

Expired or unacceptable ID

• Problem: Your ID is expired or not listed as acceptable in your country.
• Solution: Obtain a valid, acceptable ID before the test. If you cannot, reschedule the test and confirm acceptable ID options with ETS.

Poor lighting or obstructed webcam view

• Problem: The proctor cannot see your face or workspace clearly, which can delay or prevent check-in.
• Solution: Position additional lighting to illuminate your face and desk. Test your webcam view prior to the test and adjust angles to show the full desk and floor area during the room scan.

Internet instability or unexpected disconnections

• Problem: The connection drops during check-in or the test.
• Solution: Use a wired connection if possible. Close bandwidth-heavy applications. If you experience disconnects, notify the proctor immediately. Document the issue, as ETS may give guidance on resuming or retaking portions of the test.

Nearby people, pets, or interruptions

• Problem: Someone enters your room or makes noise during testing.
• Solution: Test from a quiet, private room and inform household members of your scheduled test. Use door signs and locks where possible. If an interruption occurs, pause the test according to ETS policies and contact the proctor.

Unallowed items on the desk

• Problem: Prohibited materials, such as books, notes, or additional electronic devices, are visible during the room scan.
• Solution: Clear your workspace completely before the room scan. If you later need scratch paper or other permitted items, verify policies ahead of time and obtain confirmation from ETS about permitted materials.

Practical examples and scenarios

Scenario 1: Name discrepancy resolved before test

A test taker registers as “Liz M. Harper” but plans to use a passport that shows “Elizabeth Marie Harper.” The student notices this mismatch before test day, updates the ETS registration to match the passport, and then completes check-in successfully because the ID and registration now match exactly.

Scenario 2: Internet dropout during section

During the Quantitative Reasoning section, a student’s Wi-Fi drops. The proctor sees the disconnect and instructs the student to attempt reconnection. The student reconnects within a few minutes and continues. ETS records the interruption and will review the session if there are questions about timing or integrity. The student saved screenshots of the reconnect attempts and kept notes of the proctor’s messages for evidence, which assisted in resolving a subsequent inquiry.

Scenario 3: Room scan flags an objectionable item

A student forgets a study sheet on a bookshelf in the same room. During the required room scan, the proctor sees the sheet and pauses check-in. The proctor instructs the student to remove all materials and re-complete the scan. The student removes the sheet and completes check-in; the test proceeds. Had the student proceeded to test without resolving the issue, ETS might have flagged the session for review.

Comparison table: Test center vs GRE At Home security

Feature	Test Center	GRE At Home
Identity verification	In-person ID check by staff	Live ID check via webcam and proctor
Environment control	Controlled, standardized testing room	Candidate must prepare their home environment and permit a room scan
Monitoring	On-site proctors and CCTV in some centers	Live proctoring and session recording, plus automated monitoring
Permitted materials	Provided or allowed per center rules	Subject to ETS policy; must be confirmed in advance
Technical requirements	Provided by center	Candidate must have compatible computer, webcam, microphone, and internet

Frequently asked questions

1. Will my GRE At Home session be recorded?

Yes. Remote GRE sessions are monitored and recorded. ETS and its proctoring partners use recordings and logs to review potential security incidents. Consult ETS for details on data retention and privacy policies.

2. What identification will ETS accept for GRE At Home?

ETS requires a government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your registration. Accepted ID types and any country-specific rules are listed on ETS’s website. If you are an international test taker, check the accepted documents for your country.

3. Can someone else be in the room with me?

No. ETS requires you to be alone in the testing room. Presence of another person can lead to interruption, session termination, or investigation of possible misconduct.

4. Are phones, smartwatches, or headphones allowed?

These items are generally prohibited during the test. Keep personal devices out of reach and out of the testing room unless ETS explicitly permits particular items for approved accommodations. Check ETS for the official list of prohibited items.

5. What happens if my internet connection fails during the test?

If you experience a connection problem, contact the proctor immediately using the test platform’s chat or help function. ETS will record the incident and handle each case according to its policies. Document the problem and follow proctor instructions.

6. Can I use scratch paper and pencils?

ETS specifies whether physical scratch paper or an on-screen whiteboard may be used for GRE At Home. Policies can change, so verify the allowed materials for your session on the ETS website before your test.

7. How far in advance should I request accommodations?

Request accommodations as early as possible because ETS requires documentation and time to review requests. There are no universal timelines mentioned here. Consult ETS’s official accommodations page for recommended advance notice and required documentation.

8. Will ETS cancel my scores for a security violation?

ETS can cancel or withhold scores if there is credible evidence of a rules violation or irregularity. Outcomes can include investigation, score cancellation, and notification to institutions. ETS is the official authority for decisions about test validity.

9. Can I take the GRE At Home if I live outside of my country of citizenship?

Availability is region- and country-dependent. Check ETS for current availability in the country where you plan to test. Some countries may have restrictions or different ID rules.

10. Who do I contact if I have an issue on test day?

Use the proctor’s chat and follow the on-screen procedures provided by the ETS testing application. After the test, contact ETS Customer Service for further assistance or to report unresolved problems. Keep records of any error messages or proctor communications.

Important notes and caveats

• ETS updates GRE policies and technical requirements from time to time. Always verify current security rules, acceptable IDs, and technical specifications on the official ETS GRE At Home pages before scheduling or testing.
• Country-specific rules can vary, especially for acceptable identification documents and whether GRE At Home is available in that region.
• Accommodations require advance approval. Do not assume standard at-home procedures will automatically apply to accommodated sessions.
• ETS is the authoritative source for enforcement actions, score cancellations, and official test policies. Use ETS for final confirmation and dispute resolution.

Final thoughts

GRE At Home security rules are designed to protect your exam’s integrity and preserve the fairness of the testing process. To reduce the risk of test-day problems, confirm ETS rules early, run the required system checks, prepare a private, well-lit workspace, clear your desk of prohibited items, and ensure your ID exactly matches your registration. On test day, log in early, follow proctor instructions, and document any technical issues you experience. For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, consult the official ETS GRE At Home resources and the ETS accommodations pages if you need special arrangements.