Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Test in Pakistan

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a globally recognized standardized test that plays a crucial role in the graduate school admission process, especially in the United States, Canada, Europe, and other top destinations. For Pakistani students aspiring to study abroad, the GRE test is often a key requirement for admission into master's, MBA, and even some doctoral programs. Whether you're aiming for a top university in the USA or applying for scholarships in Europe, understanding the GRE is essential.

This guide offers a detailed overview of the GRE test for Pakistani students, covering the structure, registration process, fees, preparation tips, score validity, and more.

What is the GRE?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It evaluates the verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills of candidates. There are two types of GRE exams:

• GRE General Test: Required for most graduate and business school programs.
• GRE Subject Test: Required for specific subject-based programs (e.g., Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology).

Pakistani students generally take the GRE General Test to fulfill admission requirements for master's or PhD programs abroad.

Why Pakistani Students Should Take the GRE

Pakistani students increasingly consider international higher education for better academic and career opportunities. Here’s why taking the GRE in Pakistan is valuable:

• Global Acceptance: Over 1,200 business schools and 90+ countries accept GRE scores.
• Scholarships: A good GRE score can significantly boost your chances of winning international scholarships.
• Flexible Scheduling: Available in major Pakistani cities with multiple test dates.
• Gateway to Top Universities: Prestigious institutions like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Oxford accept GRE scores.

GRE Test Structure

Understanding the GRE test format helps Pakistani students prepare better. The test is divided into three main sections:

• Analytical Writing
  • Two tasks (Issue and Argument)
  • Time: 60 minutes (30 minutes per task)
• Verbal Reasoning
  • Two sections with 20 questions each
  • Time: 60 minutes total
  • Focus: Reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence
• Quantitative Reasoning
  • Two sections with 20 questions each
  • Time: 70 minutes total
  • Focus: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis

• Optional: Unscored or Research section (for ETS evaluation purposes)

Total Test Duration: Around 3 hours 45 minutes

GRE Registration in Pakistan

You can register for the GRE test online through the official ETS website.

Steps for GRE Registration in Pakistan:

• Visit the ETS official website
• Create or log in to your ETS account.
• Choose “Register for a Test.”
• Select a suitable test center in Pakistan (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi).
• Choose an available test date.
• Pay the GRE registration fee.
• Receive confirmation via email.

GRE Test Centers in Pakistan

GRE test centers in Pakistan are located in:

• Karachi
• Lahore
• Islamabad

These centers offer computer-delivered GRE tests multiple times a month.

GRE Test Fee in Pakistan

As of 2025, the GRE General Test fee in Pakistan is approximately $220 USD, which may vary based on the exchange rate. Additional charges may apply for rescheduling or late registration.

Pakistani students can pay the GRE fee using an international credit or debit card (Visa/MasterCard).

GRE Test Dates in Pakistan (2025)

The GRE is offered throughout the year at authorized test centers. Pakistani students can select test dates based on seat availability. It is advisable to book your test 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak application seasons (August–December).

GRE Score Validity and Results

• How Long is the GRE Score Valid?

Your GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. This gives Pakistani students ample time to apply to multiple universities or programs.

• When Do You Receive GRE Scores?
  • Unofficial scores for Verbal and Quant sections: Immediately after test.
  • Official GRE scores: Available 10–15 days after your test via your ETS account.

How to Prepare for the GRE in Pakistan

Effective GRE preparation in Pakistan can significantly improve your scores. Here are some preparation options:

• Self-study
  • Recommended books: ETS Official Guide, Manhattan Prep, Kaplan GRE.
  • Free practice tests and sample questions are available on the ETS website.
• Online GRE Prep Courses
  • Websites like Magoosh, Princeton Review, Kaplan, and PrepScholar offer online GRE prep courses.
• GRE Coaching Centers in Pakistan
  • Karachi: Pacans, Sir Shirazi Academy
  • Lahore: Kips Education, USEFP
  • Islamabad: Sir Anwar Institute, Brightlink Prep

GRE Scholarships for Pakistani Students

While GRE itself doesn’t offer scholarships, a high GRE score can help you qualify for merit-based scholarships at international universities. Some scholarship programs in which GRE scores are beneficial include:

• Fulbright Program (USEFP Pakistan)
• DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
• Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (Europe)
• Chevening Scholarship (UK)
• Australia Awards

Be sure to check each university’s website for GRE-based funding opportunities.

Countries that Accept GRE Scores

Pakistani students can use GRE scores to apply to top graduate programs in:

• United States
• Canada
• United Kingdom
• Germany
• Australia
• France
• Sweden
• Netherlands

Some programs in business schools (MBA or MiM) also accept GRE instead of GMAT.

FAQs – GRE for Pakistani Students

1. Is GRE compulsory for all universities abroad?
No, not all programs require the GRE. Some universities have waived GRE requirements post-COVID-19. Always check individual university requirements.

2. Can I retake the GRE?
Yes, you can retake the GRE once every 21 days, up to 5 times within 12 months.

3. What is a good GRE score for Pakistani students?
A score above 310 is considered competitive for top universities. Aim for 320+ for Ivy League or scholarships.

4. How long should I prepare for the GRE?
On average, 2–3 months of consistent study is recommended.

5. Can I take the GRE at home in Pakistan?
Yes, ETS offers the GRE at Home option in Pakistan if you meet technical and environment requirements.

6. What ID is required for GRE test day?
You must present a valid passport as your primary ID.

7. Can I apply for multiple programs with the same GRE score?
Yes, one GRE score can be sent to multiple universities.

8. Is GRE required for MS in Germany?
Not always. Some German universities ask for GRE, especially for competitive or technical programs.

9. How do I send GRE scores to universities?
You can send scores to 4 universities for free at the time of the test. Additional score reports cost around $30 USD each.

10. Does GRE score affect visa chances?
No, but a good GRE score enhances your academic profile, which may positively influence your student visa application indirectly.

Conclusion

The GRE test for Pakistani students serves as a gateway to world-class education and numerous scholarship opportunities abroad. With the right preparation and strategy, scoring well on the GRE can open doors to top-ranked universities in the US, Canada, Europe, and beyond. From registration in Pakistan to GRE test centers, fees, preparation, and validity, this guide provides everything you need to make an informed decision.