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Is Passport Mandatory for GRE Exam

Updated on 20 February, 2024

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

Christina had been studying for the GRE for months and had scheduled the exam in two weeks. She had everything planned out perfectly - the test center's location, the exam's time, and the documents she needed to bring. But then, disaster struck. She realized that her passport had expired. How could she forget to double-check such an important document? The GRE was a vital component of her graduate school application. Now, without a valid passport, she was facing the possibility of being unable to take the exam.
After reading Christina's story, you now understand the significance of a passport as GRE test takers. This also answers the most widely asked question- is a passport required for the GRE exam?

The GRE® (Graduate Record Examinations) is a multiple-choice, computer-based exam required globally for admission to graduate programs, including graduate business courses (MBA). Educational Testing Service (ETS) administers the GRE. The GRE, according to ETS, is designed to assess verbal reasoning, mathematical reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking abilities gained through time.
A passport is mandatory for the GRE exam for all applicants outside the United States. In fact, the only kind of identification accepted by GRE testing centers is a passport. A driver's license or any other form of identification is not accepted at testing centers in India. However, a passport number is not required to register for GRE online; you can schedule the GRE exam easily without a passport.

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Important Resources For PTE/SAT/ACT Exam

PTE Examination Eligibility Criteria

There are no specific PTE exam eligibility criteria set by Pearson VUE – the organizers of the test.

PTE Eligibility

PTE Academic Syllabus

PTE syllabus includes various sections such as Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening.

PTE Syllabus

PTE Exam Pattern

The PTE exam pattern is designed to test whether candidates can study at international institutions that have English as the main language for instructions.

PTE Exam Pattern

Unacceptable ID Documents for GRE

Certain ID documents, as listed below, are not accepted for the GRE.

  • Expired ID proof
  • Photocopy of ID proof
  • Softcopies of the ID proof
  • International student ID card
  • International driving license
  • Draft classification card
  • Credit/debit card
  • Employee ID card
  • Birth certificate of the candidate
  • Notary-prepared letter or document
  • Embassy ID card
  • Social security card
  • Diplomatic ID card
  • Consulate ID card
  • Temporary ID proofs
  • Any document that the government agency does not recognize

What If Candidate Cannot Meet ID Requirement for GRE

ETS is well aware that candidates who have been granted political asylum or who have a refugee status may not get access to a valid passport. In this case, you must contact the ETS Office of Testing Integrity (OTI) at least seven days prior to registering for the test. 

Conclusion

It is mandatory to have a valid passport to take the GRE. During the pandemic, ETS accepted Aadhar cards as a form of identification until April 15, 2023. But as of now, only a passport is considered for GRE applicants.

Download these useful guides to ace your GRE preparation

GRE  Quant Guides
GRE verbal Sample
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a passport mandatory for the GRE exam?

Yes, a passport is mandatory for the GRE test for all applicants outside the US.

What forms of identification are acceptable for the GRE?

The only form of identification accepted by GRE testing centers is a passport. Even a driver's license or another form of identification is not accepted at testing centers in India.

Can I use an expired ID for the GRE exam?

No. You can not use an expired ID for the GRE.

What should I do if I don't have an acceptable form of identification for the GRE?

If you do not have an acceptable form of identification, contact the ETS Office of Testing Integrity (OTI) at least seven days prior to registering for the exam.

Can I use a non-government-issued ID for the GRE?

Only the government-issued ID is considered valid proof for the GRE test.

What are the documents required for the GRE exam?

Candidates must have a valid passport with the correct name, photograph, and signature. The original Aadhar card is also required. As a mandatory ID verification process at the test center, the candidates undergo photo identification, biometric voice, fingerprinting, videotaping, and signature comparison.

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upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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The above tips are the Author's experiences. upGrad does not guarantee scores or admissions.