If you are considering the GRE General Test at home, this article explains exactly how it works, what to expect on test day, and how to prepare your computer and testing environment. The at-home GRE uses remote proctoring so you can take the same GRE you would take at a test center, while being monitored by ETS-approved security procedures. Below you will find step-by-step guidance, technical and ID requirements, common rules and restrictions, troubleshooting tips, and answers to the most frequent questions applicants ask.
Quick answer
The GRE at home is the same GRE General Test in content, format, and scoring as the test center version. ETS delivers it via a remote proctoring system that verifies your identity, inspects your testing area, and monitors you via webcam and microphone during the test. You use your own laptop or desktop computer that meets system requirements. You must follow strict rules about permitted items and behavior. If a technical or security problem occurs, the proctor and ETS have procedures to document and resolve it. Always review ETS’s official at-home testing policies before you schedule.
How the GRE at home compares with the test-center GRE
- Same test content and scoring. Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections are identical in content, question types, timing, and score reporting.
- Same score acceptance. Graduate programs accept at-home scores the same way they accept scores from test centers, unless a specific program states otherwise. Confirm program requirements directly with the school.
- Different delivery and security. At-home testing uses remote proctoring and your own hardware. Test-center delivery uses on-site proctors and standardized equipment.
- Scheduling flexibility and convenience. You can test from home in many time zones and schedule appointments outside large test-center availability windows, subject to ETS availability.
Step-by-step: what happens when you test at home
Before you schedule
- Confirm the GRE at-home option is available in your country or region. Availability can vary.
- Create or sign in to your ETS account and choose the at-home testing option when you register.
- Run the required system and equipment checks well before test day. ETS provides a system check tool to confirm that your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet connection are compatible.
One to several days before test day
- Review the at-home testing rules in your ETS account, including permitted ID types, allowed materials, and behavior during the test.
- Prepare a quiet, well-lit, private room where you will be alone for the entire test session. Remove posters and loose papers that could contain notes.
- Charge your laptop and, if possible, use a wired Ethernet connection for stability. Disable screen savers and notifications for the test period.
- Gather your valid government-issued photo ID. The name on your ETS account must match the name on your ID exactly.
On test day: check-in and security screening
- Log in to your ETS account and start the check-in process at the scheduled time. Expect to start early to allow time for identity verification and environment checks.
- Show your government-issued photo ID to the proctor as instructed. The proctor will verify that the ID is valid and matches your account name.
- Perform a room scan. You will be asked to use your webcam to show your workspace, floor area, and nearby walls. The proctor needs to confirm that no unauthorized materials or individuals are present.
- Clear your desk and show any allowed scratch materials, if permitted. The proctor may require you to place allowed items in view for inspection.
During the test
- The test begins after identity and room checks are complete. A live proctor monitors audio and video, and session activity is recorded.
- The GRE structure is the same: Analytical Writing tasks plus Verbal and Quantitative sections. You will receive section timing and breaks according to standard GRE rules.
- Follow the proctor’s instructions and keep your face and workspace visible at all times. The proctor may pause or stop the test if they detect a rules violation or a technical problem.
- If you experience a technical interruption, the proctor will attempt to resolve it. ETS documents interruptions and has procedures for rescheduling or retesting when warranted.
After the test
- At the end, you will be asked to show your workspace again, and to follow any final proctor instructions about returning or erasing permitted scratch materials.
- Your scores are sent and reported to ETS according to the standard scoring timeline for the GRE. Reported scores do not indicate whether they were taken at home or at a test center.
Technical and equipment checklist
System requirements change occasionally. Use the list below as a practical checklist and verify current specifications on the ETS website before test day.
- Computer type. Desktop or laptop computer running a supported Windows or macOS version. Tablets, smartphones, and Chromebooks are generally not supported.
- Webcam and microphone. A working webcam and microphone are required. Built-in or external devices are acceptable as long as they function properly.
- Internet connection. A reliable broadband connection is strongly recommended. Use a wired Ethernet connection if possible. Minimize other devices using bandwidth during the test.
- Single monitor rule. Many remote proctoring systems do not permit multiple monitors. Use a single monitor setup unless ETS explicitly allows otherwise.
- Browser and software. Run ETS’s required secure browser or testing application. Close all other programs and disable background syncing and notifications.
- Power and backups. Plug in your computer, and avoid battery-saving modes that might interrupt the test. Have contact information for ETS support ready in case of problems.
Identification and workspace rules
ETS enforces strict rules to protect test security and fairness. The most common requirements follow. Confirm specifics in your ETS account.
- ID verification. You must present an unexpired, government-issued photo ID that matches your registration exactly. The proctor will visually inspect the ID.
- Alone in the room. You must be alone for the entire test. Pets, visitors, or other people in the room are not allowed.
- No unauthorized materials. Books, notes, phones, smartwatches, or other devices are not allowed. The proctor will inspect your area and may ask you to empty pockets.
- No headphones or earphones. Listening devices are not permitted unless an accommodation specifically provides for them.
- Recording and locks. The session will be recorded. You are responsible for ensuring no one accesses or views your screen during testing.
Allowed materials and scratch work
Policies about scratch materials may be updated. Typical approaches are the following.
- Some test takers use an erasable, dry-erase board and marker, which the proctor examines before and after the session. Others may use permitted paper that must be shown to the proctor. Verify the current ETS policy for allowed scratch materials and any inspection rules.
- An on-screen calculator is available where appropriate for Quantitative sections. Personal calculators are not permitted.
- Do not use notes, printed materials, or electronic devices as scratch paper unless explicitly allowed and inspected by the proctor.
Accessibility and accommodations
ETS provides test accommodations for test takers with documented disabilities. Request accommodations in advance through the ETS disability services process. Some accommodations are available for the at-home test, but specific accommodations and how they are delivered can vary. Apply early and confirm how your accommodations will be implemented for at-home testing.
Common technical problems and how ETS typically handles them
- Intermittent internet or disconnection. The proctor will attempt to reconnect and troubleshoot. ETS documents interruptions, and you may be offered rescheduling or a retake at ETS’s discretion. Keep ETS contact information handy.
- Poor lighting or webcam issues. The proctor may require you to improve lighting, adjust camera angle, or reconnect. Test your webcam before the appointment.
- Software conflicts. Background programs, virtual machines, or security software can interfere with the secure testing application. Close other apps and run the ETS system check ahead of time.
- Rule violations detected. If the proctor observes prohibited behavior, ETS may flag or void your score. Avoid any action that could be misinterpreted, such as looking off-screen repeatedly or leaving the camera view without permission.
Scheduling, cancellations, and rescheduling
- Schedule your at-home test through your ETS account, choosing an available appointment slot.
- ETS allows cancellations and rescheduling, often with fees or within certain time windows. Policy details can vary, so verify deadlines and any refund rules in your ETS account before you change an appointment.
- If a technical issue interrupts your test, ETS documents the incident. Depending on the situation, ETS may allow a retest without additional fees or provide guidance for rescheduling. Keep records of the session and any communication with the proctor.
Pros and cons of taking the GRE at home
Pros
- Convenience. No travel to a testing center. You can test in a familiar environment.
- Flexible scheduling. More time-of-day options may be available, including weekends and evenings in some regions.
- Same test and scores. The content and scoring are identical to the center-based GRE.
Cons
- Technology dependence. Internet, webcam, and computer problems can interrupt or invalidate a session.
- Strict environment control. You must meet stringent room and ID requirements and may find the monitoring intrusive.
- Potential for unexpected issues. If you are unfamiliar with the testing platform or your hardware, test day may be stressful. Practice with the system check and sample materials ahead of time.
Practical preparation checklist
- Run the ETS system check at least 48 hours before test day.
- Confirm your ID is valid and the name matches your ETS registration.
- Choose and prepare a private, quiet room with good lighting and a clear work surface.
- Use a wired Ethernet connection if possible and close background apps.
- Prepare permitted scratch materials according to the ETS policy and practice showing them to a webcam.
- Practice using the on-screen tools and calculator if you usually rely on a physical calculator.
- Have ETS support contact details ready in case you need immediate assistance during check-in or the test.
Common questions
Is the GRE at home accepted by graduate schools?
Yes. In general, schools accept scores from at-home and test-center administrations equally. If a specific program has a preference or restriction, the program will state that in its application requirements. When in doubt, check with the department or admissions office.
Is the at-home test format identical to the center-based GRE?
Yes. The Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing sections, item types, timing, and scoring remain the same. The primary difference is the delivery method and the remote proctoring process.
What if I get disconnected during the test?
If a technical disruption happens, the proctor will try to reconnect and resolve the issue. ETS records such incidents and will advise you about whether to continue, pause, or reschedule. Save any error messages and note the time of the problem so you can provide details if needed.
Can I use notes or a calculator?
Personal notes and personal calculators are not allowed unless ETS explicitly permits certain scratch materials after inspection. An on-screen calculator is available for permitted Quantitative sections. Check ETS rules about allowed scratch materials and follow the proctor’s inspection instructions.
How do I request accommodations for the at-home test?
Submit an accommodations request through ETS’s disability services well in advance of your desired test date. ETS reviews documentation and communicates which accommodations can be provided for at-home testing.
Final thoughts and practical advice
The GRE at home offers a convenient and fully equivalent way to take the GRE General Test, as long as you plan and prepare for the technical and procedural differences. Run the ETS system check multiple times, prepare a distraction-free workspace, verify your ID and registration name, and practice using the testing tools. On test day, allow enough time for the identity and room checks and follow the proctor’s instructions carefully. If anything unusual happens, document it and contact ETS support promptly. Finally, confirm program-specific GRE policies with the graduate programs to which you will apply.
