GRE Test Dates in Pakistan

For Pakistani students aiming to pursue graduate or postgraduate studies abroad, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) plays a vital role in securing admission at top-ranked universities. Whether you’re applying for a Master’s program, MBA, or PhD, understanding the GRE test dates in Pakistan is crucial for successful planning. This guide provides a detailed overview of GRE test schedules, availability, and tips for Pakistani students to choose the best date.

GRE General Test Dates in Pakistan

The GRE General Test is the most widely taken version of the GRE and is offered year-round in Pakistan. Students can register for the test on almost any date, provided there is an available seat at the nearest test center.

• Availability: Year-round at authorized test centers in cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
• At-Home Option: ETS also offers a GRE at-home edition for students who prefer to take the exam online with remote proctoring.
• Retake Policy: You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times in a 12-month rolling period. This includes canceled tests.

This flexibility is especially beneficial for Pakistani students who may need to retake the GRE or adjust their schedule to align with university admission deadlines.

GRE Subject Test Dates in Pakistan

Unlike the General Test, the GRE Subject Tests are only offered on fixed dates worldwide. These tests are required for certain specialized programs (such as Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology) and must be planned well in advance.

For the 2025–2026 testing year, the GRE Subject Test dates are:

• September 8 – 21, 2025
• October 13 – 26, 2025
• April 20 – May 3, 2026

Subject Tests are not available in the at-home format. Pakistani students must take them at designated test centers.

GRE Test Dates and University Application Deadlines

When selecting a GRE test date, Pakistani students must carefully plan around application timelines. Most universities in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia have Fall and Spring intakes, with deadlines usually between October and January for Fall, and between March and June for Spring.

Always schedule your GRE at least 3–6 months before application deadlines to leave room for preparation and possible retakes.

How to Register for GRE Test Dates in Pakistan

Pakistani students can easily register for GRE online through their ETS account. Here’s the process:

• Visit the ETS official website.
• Create or log in to your ETS account.
• Choose GRE General Test or GRE Subject Test.
• Select Test Center or At-Home option.
• Browse available test dates in Pakistan.
• Confirm your seat and make payment (credit/debit card or PayPal).

Pro Tip: Book your test 2–3 months in advance for popular dates (especially in Lahore and Islamabad) as slots fill quickly.

GRE Score Reporting Timeline

• GRE General Test: Unofficial scores (Verbal & Quantitative) are shown immediately after the test. Official scores are available 8–10 days later.
• GRE Subject Test: Official scores are available 5 weeks after the test date.

Scores are sent to universities electronically twice a week, so plan accordingly.

Choosing the Right GRE Test Date – Tips for Pakistani Students

• Align with University Deadlines – Check application cut-offs before booking.
• Allow for Retakes – If aiming for a higher score, book your first GRE early enough to attempt again.
• Consider Preparation Time – Students typically need 3–6 months of study before the exam.
• Avoid Last-Minute Stress – Book your test well ahead of deadlines to prevent seat unavailability.
• Check Subject Test Windows – If your program requires a GRE Subject Test, plan around the fixed dates.

GRE Test Centers in Pakistan

ETS-authorized test centers are located in major Pakistani cities:

• Islamabad
• Lahore
• Karachi

Each test center offers multiple dates per month for the GRE General Test, while Subject Tests are available only on fixed schedules.

Why Pakistani Students Should Plan GRE Dates Early

• Higher Chances of Admission: Early test-taking ensures your scores reach universities on time.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Many merit-based scholarships require GRE scores submitted by priority deadlines.
• Flexibility for Retakes: Registering early gives you room to retake the GRE if needed.
• Less Stress: Avoiding last-minute bookings reduces anxiety and allows you to focus on preparation.

Final Thoughts

The GRE Test Dates in Pakistan offer great flexibility for General Test takers, while Subject Test candidates must plan carefully around limited windows. For Pakistani students, the best strategy is to book early, prepare well, and align with university deadlines. Whether you’re targeting the US, Canada, UK, or Europe, proper planning around test dates can significantly increase your chances of success.

By understanding the test schedule, registration process, and score reporting timelines, you can set yourself on the right track toward a successful international academic journey.