GRE at Home Testing: Complete Guide to Taking the GRE Online

Wondering if you can take the GRE from home? The short answer is yes - and honestly, for a lot of test-takers, it's become the preferred option. The GRE at home test launched back in 2020 and has since helped millions of graduate school applicants take their exam without stepping foot in a testing center.

But here's the thing - taking the GRE at home test isn't quite as simple as just firing up your laptop in your pajamas. There are specific requirements, rules you absolutely need to follow, and technical setup that can make or break your testing experience. Get it wrong, and you might find yourself scrambling mid-exam or worse, having your scores canceled.

This guide walks you through everything about GRE online testing - from the exact requirements you need to meet, to common pitfalls people encounter, to whether the at-home option is actually right for your situation. Whether you're an international student dealing with limited testing center access or someone who just performs better in familiar environments, we've got you covered.

What Is GRE at Home Testing?

The GRE at home is ETS's official remote proctoring option that lets you take the full GRE General Test from your own computer. It's not a shortened version or some kind of preliminary exam - it's the exact same test you'd take at a Prometric testing center, just delivered through ETS's secure browser with a live human proctor watching via your webcam.

Your proctor monitors you throughout the entire exam using AI technology combined with human oversight. They can see your screen, hear your room through your microphone, and watch you through your webcam. Sounds a bit intense, but most people find it's actually less stressful than having someone physically present in a testing center.

Key Features of the GRE at Home Test

• Same content and format: Identical to the test-center version with Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing sections
• Same scoring: Scores are treated identically by graduate programs - there's no distinction on score reports
• 24/7 availability: Schedule your test any time, day or night, seven days a week
• ProctorU partnership: ETS uses ProctorU for secure online proctoring
• Accepted worldwide: Available in most countries (with some exceptions due to technical or regulatory constraints)

One thing worth mentioning - the GRE at home test isn't available for GRE Subject Tests. Those still require you to go to a physical testing location. But for the General Test? The at-home option is fully equivalent.

GRE at Home Requirements (Complete Checklist)

Before you schedule your GRE at home test, you need to make sure you meet all the technical and environmental requirements. ETS is pretty strict about these, and failing to meet them could result in your session being terminated or scores being canceled.

Computer Requirements

The GRE at home test requirements for your computer are fairly specific:

• Operating System: Windows 10 or later, or macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later. Chrome OS and Linux aren't supported.
• Browser: You'll download the ETS Secure Test Browser - your regular browser won't work
• Processor: Modern dual-core processor (most computers from the last 5-7 years should be fine)
• RAM: At least 4GB (8GB recommended for smoother performance)
• Screen resolution: 1024 x 768 minimum
• No tablets or Chromebooks: You need a desktop or laptop computer

Internet Requirements

Your internet connection is critical for GRE online testing. Here's what you need:

• Download speed: 4 Mbps minimum (10+ Mbps recommended)
• Upload speed: 2 Mbps minimum (5+ Mbps recommended)
• Wired connection preferred: WiFi works, but ethernet is more stable
• Consistent connection: Bandwidth needs to stay stable throughout the 4+ hour exam

Run ETS's equipment check at least 24 hours before your test. It tests your internet speed, webcam, microphone, and browser compatibility all at once.

Equipment Requirements

• Webcam: Built-in or external, capable of being moved to show your workspace
• Microphone: Built-in or external - needs to clearly pick up room audio
• Speaker or headphones: To hear proctor instructions (earbuds aren't allowed)
• Whiteboard and marker: Your only allowed scratch "paper" option

Environment Requirements

This is where people often run into trouble. Your testing space needs to meet these GRE at home rules:

• Private room: No one else can be present or enter during the exam
• Clean desk: Only your computer, whiteboard, marker, and ID allowed
• No additional monitors: Only your testing computer screen
• Adequate lighting: Your face needs to be clearly visible at all times
• Door closed: You'll need to show the proctor your door is shut
• No phone or smart devices: These need to be completely out of reach

GRE at Home vs Testing Center: Which Should You Choose?

One of the most common questions I hear is whether it's better to take the GRE at home or in person. The honest answer? It depends on your specific situation. Both options have real advantages and potential drawbacks.

Advantages of GRE at Home

• Scheduling flexibility: Available 24/7, so you can test at your peak performance time - whether that's 6 AM or midnight
• Familiar environment: Many people perform better in their own space without the stress of an unfamiliar testing center
• No commute: Eliminates travel time and the stress of potentially running late
• No distractions from other test-takers: You won't hear other people typing, coughing, or fidgeting
• Greater availability: Especially valuable if you're in an area without convenient testing centers

Advantages of Testing Center

• Reliable equipment: They handle all technical issues - you don't have to worry about your internet going out
• Dedicated testing environment: The space is specifically designed for standardized testing
• Scratch paper: You get actual paper and pencil instead of a whiteboard
• No setup required: Just show up with your ID
• Fewer technical concerns: No worrying about your home internet stability

Making Your Decision

Consider the GRE at home option if you:

• Have reliable, high-speed internet
• Perform better in familiar environments
• Need flexible scheduling (especially if you're working or have other commitments)
• Live far from a testing center
• Are comfortable with technology and troubleshooting basic issues

Consider a testing center if you:

• Have unreliable internet or older computer equipment
• Live with others who might interrupt you
• Strongly prefer pencil and paper for scratch work
• Get anxious about technical issues during high-stakes tests
• Have a testing center conveniently located nearby

GRE at Home Rules You Need to Know

ETS takes test security seriously, and the GRE at home rules reflect that. Violating any of these can result in your test being paused, terminated, or your scores being canceled. Take these seriously.

What You Can Have

• Your computer (desktop or laptop)
• One small whiteboard (no larger than 12" x 20") with one dry-erase marker
• Your valid ID
• A glass of water in a clear container (no labels)
• External keyboard and mouse (if needed - wired versions recommended)

What's Prohibited

The list of prohibited items for taking the GRE at home is extensive:

• No phones or smart devices - Not even in the room
• No additional monitors or screens - Only your testing computer
• No paper or regular writing materials - Whiteboard only
• No earbuds or earphones - Over-ear headphones may be allowed with proctor approval
• No food - Water only, in a clear container
• No books, notes, or reference materials - Nothing in your line of sight
• No watches or timers - The on-screen timer is your only time reference

Behavior Rules

• Stay in camera view: Your face needs to be visible to the webcam at all times
• No reading questions aloud: Work silently throughout the exam
• No leaving the room: Even during the break, you can only leave if you end your session (which ends your test)
• Keep your eyes on the screen: Looking away frequently may trigger a security flag
• Respond to proctor requests: If the proctor asks you something, you need to respond promptly

About the GRE at Home Scratch Paper Situation

Let's talk about GRE at home scratch paper - because this trips people up. You cannot use regular paper. Your only option is a small whiteboard with a dry-erase marker.

This takes some getting used to, especially for the Quantitative section where you might be doing multi-step calculations. A few tips:

• Practice with a whiteboard before your test - get comfortable with the marker thickness and erasing
• Have a tissue or eraser cloth ready for quick erasing
• Write smaller than you normally would - whiteboard space is limited
• Some people find landscape orientation works better for math problems

How to Take the GRE at Home (Step-by-Step)

Ready to schedule your GRE at home test? Here's exactly how the process works from registration to score delivery.

Step 1: Create Your ETS Account

If you don't already have one, go to ets.org/gre and create an account. Make sure the name you register with matches your ID exactly - even small discrepancies can cause issues on test day.

Step 2: Choose the At Home Option

When you register, select the "GRE General Test at Home" option. You'll see available time slots - remember, the at-home test is available 24/7, so you have lots of flexibility.

Step 3: Run the Equipment Check

ETS provides an equipment check tool that tests your computer, internet, webcam, and microphone. Run this at least 24 hours before your scheduled test. If something fails, you'll have time to fix it or reschedule.

Step 4: Download the Secure Browser

You'll need to download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser. This is a locked-down browser that prevents you from accessing other applications or websites during the test. Install it ahead of time, not on test day.

Step 5: Prepare Your Testing Space

Set up your room according to the requirements above:

• Clear your desk completely
• Remove or cover any materials in your camera's view
• Ensure good lighting on your face
• Have your whiteboard, marker, and ID ready
• Test your webcam can show a full 360-degree room view

Step 6: Check In on Test Day

Log in to your ETS account about 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You'll:

• Show your ID to the proctor (front and back)
• Complete the 360-degree room scan
• Show your desk surface and under your desk
• Confirm your whiteboard and marker are the only items on your desk
• Sign the test-taker agreement

Step 7: Take Your Test

Once check-in is complete, you'll start the exam. The format is identical to the testing center version:

• Analytical Writing (two tasks, 30 minutes each)
• Verbal Reasoning (two sections, 23 minutes each)
• Quantitative Reasoning (two sections, 26 minutes each)
• One unscored section (either Verbal or Quantitative)
• Optional 10-minute break after the third section

How long is the GRE test at home? Plan for about 3 hours and 45 minutes of actual testing time, plus 15-20 minutes for check-in. Budget about 4 hours total.

GRE at Home Test Day Tips

After helping hundreds of students prepare for the GRE at home, here are the tips that actually make a difference.

Technical Preparation

• Close all other programs before launching the secure browser - the fewer background processes, the better
• Restart your computer the morning of your test to clear any memory issues
• Disable automatic updates on your computer - you don't want Windows deciding to update mid-test
• Use a wired internet connection if possible - it's more stable than WiFi
• Have your phone charged and nearby (but out of camera view) - if you get disconnected, you may need to call ProctorU support

Environmental Preparation

• Warn anyone in your house about your test time - a family member walking in will cause problems
• Put pets in another room - a dog barking or cat jumping on your desk is a distraction you don't need
• Consider the temperature - you'll be in that room for 4+ hours, so make sure it's comfortable
• Use the bathroom before check-in - you can't leave during the test
• Have water ready in a clear glass - staying hydrated helps cognitive function

Mental Preparation

• Do a practice run with the secure browser a few days before your actual test
• Get comfortable with the whiteboard - practice math problems on it until it feels natural
• Don't study the night before - rest is more valuable at that point
• Treat it like a real test day - wake up at a reasonable time, eat a good meal, follow your normal routine

Common GRE at Home Issues and How to Avoid Them

These are the problems I see most often with GRE online testing. Learn from others' mistakes so you don't repeat them.

Technical Issues

Internet disconnection: This is the number one fear for at-home test-takers. If you get disconnected, don't panic. Your test will pause, and ProctorU support will help you reconnect. Your answers are saved, and the timer stops during disconnection. However, repeated disconnections may result in your test being rescheduled.

Browser crashes: Usually caused by running too many programs or having insufficient RAM. Close everything before starting and restart your computer on test day.

Webcam or microphone issues: Test these well in advance. External webcams and microphones often work better than built-in ones if you're having problems.

Security Flag Issues

Looking away from screen: Some test-takers naturally look up when thinking. Try to be conscious of keeping your eyes on the screen. Looking away repeatedly will trigger a security review.

Talking or mouthing words: Even reading questions to yourself quietly can get flagged. Work silently throughout the exam.

Leaving camera view: Stretching, leaning back, or reaching for something can take you out of frame. Stay centered and visible.

Environmental Issues

Someone entering the room: This will pause your test immediately. Make absolutely sure no one will interrupt you. Put a sign on your door if needed.

Noise disturbances: Loud noises can trigger investigation from your proctor. Choose a quiet time and location for your test.

Lighting changes: If natural light from a window changes dramatically during your test (like clouds moving), it can make you hard to see on camera. Use consistent artificial lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take the GRE at home?

Yes, absolutely. Can you take the GRE at home? The GRE at Home has been available since 2020 and is a fully legitimate option accepted by graduate programs worldwide. Your score report doesn't indicate whether you tested at home or at a center - schools can't tell the difference, and frankly, they don't care as long as your score meets their requirements.

How long is the GRE test at home?

How long is the GRE test at home? The test itself takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes, just like the testing center version. However, you should budget about 4 hours total to account for the check-in process at the beginning. The check-in usually takes 15-20 minutes but can take longer if there are technical issues or you need to adjust your setup.

Is GRE at home accepted by graduate programs?

Is GRE at home accepted? Yes, by essentially all graduate programs that accept the GRE. ETS designed the at-home test to be identical to the testing center version in terms of content, timing, and scoring. Your score report doesn't distinguish between where you took the test, so admissions committees treat at-home scores exactly the same as in-person scores.

Can you use scratch paper on the GRE at home?

No, you cannot use scratch paper on the GRE at home. You're only allowed to use a small whiteboard (maximum 12" x 20") with a dry-erase marker. This takes some getting used to, especially for the Quantitative section. Practice doing math problems on a whiteboard before your test so the format doesn't throw you off on exam day.

What if I have technical issues during the test?

If you experience technical issues, your test will pause and your proctor will help you troubleshoot. For internet disconnections, your progress is saved and the timer stops until you reconnect. Keep a phone nearby (but out of camera view) so you can call ProctorU support if needed. If issues can't be resolved, ETS typically allows you to reschedule without losing your fee.

Is it easier to cheat on the GRE at home?

Short answer: no, and don't try. The GRE at home cheating detection systems are sophisticated. You have a live proctor watching your webcam, AI monitoring your screen and behavior, and the secure browser prevents accessing other applications. People who attempt to cheat typically get caught, have their scores canceled, and may be banned from future ETS tests. It's not worth the risk.

Should I take the GRE at home or in person?

Should I take the GRE at home or in person? It depends on your situation. Choose at-home if you have reliable internet, prefer testing in familiar environments, need flexible scheduling, or live far from testing centers. Choose in-person if you have unreliable tech setup, prefer pencil and paper for scratch work, live with people who might interrupt, or get anxious about potential technical issues.

How much does the GRE at home cost?

The GRE at home cost is exactly the same as the testing center fee: $220 in the US (prices vary slightly by country). There's no additional charge for choosing the at-home option. This includes sending score reports to up to four graduate programs of your choice.

Can I take the GRE at home internationally?

Yes, the GRE at home is available in most countries. However, some nations have restrictions due to technical infrastructure or regulatory requirements. Check the ETS website for current availability in your country. If you're an international student planning to study in the US, the at-home option can be particularly convenient given time zone differences and potentially limited testing center access.

Final Thoughts on GRE at Home Testing

The GRE at home has transformed how graduate school applicants approach this critical exam. For many people, it's a genuine improvement over the traditional testing center experience - more flexible, more comfortable, and just as rigorous.

But success with at-home testing requires preparation beyond just studying content. You need to ensure your technical setup is solid, your testing environment meets all requirements, and you're comfortable with the rules and restrictions.

The key takeaways for GRE online testing success:

• Run the equipment check well in advance and fix any issues before test day
• Prepare your testing space meticulously - the room check is thorough
• Practice with a whiteboard until it feels natural
• Communicate with anyone sharing your space about your testing time
• Have a backup plan in case of technical issues (ProctorU phone number, backup device if possible)

Whether you choose the GRE at home or a testing center, what ultimately matters is your preparation. A well-prepared test-taker will perform well in either environment.

Related Resources

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• Fast GRE High Score Tutoring - AI-powered prep with expert tutors
• GRE Exam Assistance - Alternative support options
• GRE Study Schedule for Working Professionals - Balance work and test prep
• How to Improve Your GRE Verbal Score - 7 expert strategies
• GRE vs GMAT: Which Test Should You Take? - Compare your options for business school

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