Quick Answer: For the GRE at Home, ETS requires that all scratch work come from approved, erasable, nonpermanent surfaces that a live proctor can inspect and monitor. Test takers must show the whiteboard or other allowed writing surface to the proctor during the pre-check, keep it free of unauthorized writing or materials, and follow the proctor’s instructions for erasing and storing the board between sections. Exact permitted items and inspection procedures are set by ETS and the testing vendor, so verify the current rules on the official ETS GRE at Home pages before your test.
Why this matters
Understanding the whiteboard rules for the GRE at Home matters for two reasons. First, using an approved erasable surface is how you record scratch work for Quantitative and Analytical Writing tasks. Second, failing to follow the rules can lead to delays, denied access to your exam, or an administrative review of your test results. Clear preparation prevents last-minute stress, helps you write math and planning notes efficiently, and reduces the risk of a test-day issue that could affect score submission and graduate school applications.
Main explanation
This section explains how whiteboard and scratch-work rules typically work for the GRE at Home. It covers the inspection process, what kinds of surfaces and tools are generally allowed, how the proctor monitors use, and how you should handle erasing and storing your materials during breaks and between sections. Because ETS periodically updates test procedures and the testing vendor may apply additional requirements in different countries, always verify current details with ETS before your appointment.
Overview of the at-home proctoring process
When you take the GRE at Home, a remote proctor verifies your identity, inspects your testing environment, and confirms that you are using only approved materials for scratch work. The proctor will usually require a camera-enabled room scan, a top-to-bottom scan of your workspace, and a close-up view of your whiteboard. After inspection, the proctor may permit the test to begin only if the board and workspace meet the requirements.
What the whiteboard rules accomplish
- Prevent use of unauthorized notes or crib sheets during the test.
- Ensure scratch work is erasable and cannot be saved, photographed, or retained.
- Allow the proctor to monitor that scratch work matches the permitted format and is erased between sections as required.
Typical permitted items
ETS describes permitted scratch-work materials for remote testing as erasable, nonpermanent surfaces and related supplies. In practice this means:
- An erasable whiteboard or dry-erase board that the proctor can inspect, wipe, and verify is blank at the start and between sections.
- Dry-erase markers and an eraser or soft cloth for complete erasure.
- Any additional items explicitly permitted by ETS for your session, if specified in the test instructions.
Do not assume that paper, sticky notes, notebooks, tablets, or photographic devices are allowed. In most cases these are not permitted unless ETS indicates otherwise.
Inspection and monitoring
Before the test begins, the proctor typically asks you to:
- Show your whiteboard and markers to the camera so the proctor can confirm the materials are erasable and free of writing.
- Perform a close-up wipe of the board to demonstrate it erases completely.
- Place the whiteboard in a visible position on your desk so the proctor can monitor it during the exam.
During the test, the proctor watches your camera feed and may request additional checks if they suspect a rule is being broken or the feed is obscured. At breaks or between sections, the proctor may require you to wipe the board again and show that it is blank.
Requirements, rules, and eligibility
The following checklist covers common requirements related to whiteboards for GRE at Home testing. These reflect typical proctoring practices. Confirm current, exact requirements with ETS and your testing vendor before the appointment.
Identification and registration
- Your name on your ETS registration must match the name on the government-issued ID you use for identity verification, not the name on any whiteboard.
- Identification requirements are independent of whiteboard rules. The proctor inspects identification separately from the board.
Whiteboard and marker requirements
- The board must be an erasable surface that can be wiped clean completely with the provided cloth or eraser.
- Permanent markers or pens are not appropriate. Use dry-erase markers only.
- The proctor must be able to inspect the board closely, so it should be small enough to show clearly on camera and large enough to write legibly.
- Keep extra markers and an eraser or microfiber cloth available in case the marker dries or smudges.
Workspace and technical requirements
- Show a clear, top-to-bottom scan of your testing room. Your whiteboard should be part of that space and must be in view when requested.
- Your camera must provide enough resolution and stability to let the proctor read what you write if needed. Poor camera quality may lead to repeated checks.
- Lighting should avoid glare on the board. A matte board or angled positioning will reduce reflection.
Usage rules during the test
- Show the board at the start of the test and keep it available in the view required by the proctor.
- Erase all writing when the proctor requests it, usually at the end of a section or during breaks, so no scratch work is retained between sections.
- Do not place unauthorized materials on or around the board, including sticky notes, private notes, or printed formulas.
Documentation and disability accommodations
If you have approved accommodations from ETS, the allowed scratch-work materials or procedures may be adjusted. Follow the instructions in your accommodation letter and confirm any special whiteboard or scratch-work allowances with ETS before test day.
Step-by-step process: preparing and using your whiteboard for the GRE at Home
Follow these numbered steps to prepare and use an approved whiteboard during your GRE at Home session.
- Review ETS instructions. Read the ETS GRE at Home preparation and testing pages to note any updates about allowed materials and proctor checks.
- Choose a whiteboard. Select an erasable whiteboard that is easy to show on camera, in good condition, and fully erasable. Avoid highly reflective, glass-style boards if glare is likely.
- Gather supplies. Get at least two dry-erase markers, one eraser or microfiber cloth, and a small clean towel. Avoid permanent markers, pens, pencils, sticky notes, and paper unless ETS permits them.
- Test your camera and lighting. Set up your camera so it shows your desk and whiteboard clearly. Use neutral light to reduce glare on the board. Practice writing legibly at the distance the camera will be placed.
- Complete the room and desk scan. When the proctor asks, show the proctor your empty desk and room, then hold your whiteboard up for a close view. Wipe it clean in front of the proctor to demonstrate there are no hidden marks.
- Follow proctor instructions during the test. Keep the board visible and erase it when the proctor requests. If you need a new marker, ask the proctor if you may retrieve one rather than using an unapproved item.
- At breaks and between sections, show a clear view of the blank board. Re-wipe the board if requested and confirm it is empty before continuing.
- After finishing the test, the proctor may ask you to wipe the board again and show the erased surface. Follow their instructions for returning or disposing of materials if required.
Common problems and solutions
These are frequent issues test takers encounter with whiteboards and practical ways to avoid or fix them.
Poor camera visibility or glare
- Problem: The proctor cannot read your board because of glare, low resolution, or camera angle.
- Solution: Use a matte board, reposition lighting to remove reflections, move the camera slightly farther back and zoom in if possible, or angle the board to reduce glare. Test the setup during practice sessions.
Marker smudging or fading
- Problem: Markings smear or fade and become unreadable.
- Solution: Use high-quality dark markers, keep a dry eraser and a backup marker on hand, and replace markers that begin to fade. Do not use markers that leave permanent residue.
Proctor requests repeated checks
- Problem: Repeated checks disrupt your concentration or consume time.
- Solution: During the pre-test setup, show the board in a stable, well-lit position and keep it visible as instructed. Confirm the proctor can read the board during the initial setup.
Using banned materials by mistake
- Problem: You bring sticky notes or paper and the proctor flags them as unauthorized.
- Solution: Remove and dispose of prohibited items before the test starts. If the proctor disallows an item during setup, follow their instructions and do not attempt to conceal or use it later.
Board appears to retain marks after erasing
- Problem: Residual marks remain after erasing, raising suspicions that notes are being retained between sections.
- Solution: Clean the board with the recommended cleaner or a damp microfiber cloth before the test. Demonstrate complete erasure during the proctor check and again between sections when asked.
Practical examples and scenarios
These realistic scenarios illustrate how whiteboard rules are applied and what to do to avoid problems.
Example 1: Camera glare hides writing
Situation: A test taker has a glossy whiteboard and bright overhead light. When the proctor asks to see the board close-up, the reflection prevents clear reading.
Action: The test taker tilts the board slightly, moves a lamp to reduce overhead reflection, and rewrites the problem in a darker marker. The proctor confirms visibility and allows the test to proceed.
Example 2: Board shows faint marks after erasing
Situation: After erasing between sections, faint ghosting remains on the board. The proctor requests a second wipe.
Action: The test taker uses a damp microfiber cloth to clean the board thoroughly in view of the proctor and demonstrates the board is blank. The proctor continues monitoring per normal procedures.
Example 3: Unapproved paper found during room scan
Situation: A student forgets that a planner with notes is on the desk. The proctor sees it during the room scan and marks it unauthorized.
Action: The student immediately removes the planner from sight and confirms it is placed out of reach and view. The proctor may require additional checks, and the student may be allowed to proceed after a satisfactory reinspection.
Comparison table: GRE at Home vs Test center scratch work rules
| Feature | GRE at Home | GRE Test Center |
|---|---|---|
| Primary scratch work medium | Erasable whiteboard or other approved nonpermanent surface, inspected by proctor | Scratch paper or laminated whiteboard provided by the test center |
| Proctor monitoring | Remote proctor watches via webcam and can request checks | On-site proctor oversees materials and collects scratch paper after section |
| Ability to keep scratch work | Not allowed. Board must be erased between sections and at the end | Not allowed. Paper or boards are typically collected and disposed of per center policy |
| Allowed electronic devices for scratch work | Not allowed. Electronic writing devices are generally prohibited | Not allowed. Only test-approved materials provided by center are permitted |
| Consequences for violations | Proctor may stop the test, request more checks, or flag the session for review | Proctor can stop testing and confiscate materials, and the session may be invalidated |
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use paper or sticky notes during the GRE at Home?
Most of the time, paper and sticky notes are not permitted as scratch work for the GRE at Home. ETS specifies that scratch work must be limited to approved erasable surfaces. If you think you need an exception for documented accommodations, follow ETS procedures for requesting accommodations and confirm allowed materials in your accommodation plan.
2. What size whiteboard should I use?
ETS does not publish a universal size requirement for all locations, but choose a board that is large enough to write legibly and small enough to present easily to the camera. Test your setup in advance so text is readable and the board fits in the camera view.
3. Can I use a tablet or iPad as my whiteboard?
Electronic devices that can store images are generally not allowed for scratch work. Use a physical erasable whiteboard unless ETS explicitly permits a specific electronic device for your session or accommodation.
4. What marker colors should I use?
Use dark, high-contrast colors such as black or blue to maximize legibility on camera. Light colors may not show up well. Keep a backup marker in case one dries out.
5. What happens if my whiteboard fails the proctor inspection?
If the proctor determines your board or materials do not meet the rules, they will instruct you to remove or replace unauthorized items. If you cannot comply, the proctor may delay or cancel your testing session, or require additional verification. ETS may review irregularities and take action in accordance with their policies.
6. Do I need to show the board at the end of the test?
The proctor may request that you wipe and show the board at the end of the test or between sections. Follow their instructions carefully to demonstrate compliance.
7. If I have approved accommodations, can I use alternative scratch materials?
Possibly. Approved accommodations may change how ETS handles scratch-work allowances. You must follow the instructions in your accommodation approval and confirm any special procedures with ETS before test day.
8. Can I take the board into a break or leave it unattended?
Follow the proctor’s instructions. Typically, you must keep the board visible or return it to a specified place. Do not leave the board with notes or unauthorized marks that the proctor could interpret as a violation.
9. What should I do if my camera connection drops and the proctor can no longer see my board?
Immediately notify the proctor per the testing platform prompts. The proctor will provide instructions, which may include pausing the test until the connection is restored. Do not attempt to continue without the proctor’s oversight.
10. Will my scratch work be reviewed by ETS?
ETS retains the right to review testing sessions and materials for irregularities. Because scratch work is meant to be erased and not retained, improper retention or use of unauthorized notes may result in review and possible invalidation. For exact procedures, consult ETS guidance.
Important notes
- ETS is the authoritative source. Policies and procedures for the GRE at Home, including specifics about allowed scratch-work materials and inspection procedures, can change. Always verify details on the official ETS GRE website before your test.
- Requirements and permitted materials may vary by country and by the testing vendor administering the session. Confirm local rules in advance.
- If you need accommodations, begin the ETS request process early. Accommodation approvals may alter permitted materials and procedures.
- Bring backup markers and cleaning supplies. Small preparation steps prevent many test-day issues.
Final thoughts
Preparing an appropriate erasable whiteboard, testing your camera and lighting, and practicing the pre-session room scan will reduce the chance of delays or complications during your GRE at Home. Remember that the remote proctor must verify the board is blank and monitor it throughout the session, so keep the board clean, use dark markers, and follow proctor instructions carefully. Because ETS policies can change and local procedures may vary, check the official ETS GRE at Home pages before your appointment and follow any accommodation instructions you received from ETS. Adequate preparation ensures that scratch work helps you perform effectively while complying with testing rules and preserving the integrity of your scores.
