GRE Exam Fee Waiver for Indian Students 2026: Eligibility, Benefits, Application Process & Alternatives

The cost of taking the GRE can be a significant concern for many Indian students planning to pursue higher education abroad. With rising expenses related to exam fees, applications, and test preparation, it’s natural to ask: Is there a GRE exam fee waiver for Indian students in 2026?

This comprehensive guide explains everything Indian students need to know about the GRE exam fee waiver for Indian students 2026, including official ETS policies, eligibility criteria, benefits covered under the waiver, alternative programs, and practical ways to reduce GRE costs if you don’t qualify directly.

Understanding the GRE Exam and Its Cost in 2026

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is conducted globally by Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is accepted by over 1,300 universities and business schools worldwide for graduate, MBA, MiM, MS, and PhD programs.

GRE Fees in 2026 (Expected)

• GRE General Test: USD 220

• GRE Subject Test: USD 150

• Additional costs may include:

  • Score reporting

  • Rescheduling

  • Retaking the test

  • Paid practice tests

For Indian students, the total cost can exceed ₹20,000–₹25,000, making fee reduction options extremely important.

What Is a GRE Fee Waiver and What Does It Cover?

A GRE fee waiver is a fee reduction program that lowers the cost of taking the GRE exam for eligible candidates. It is officially administered by ETS and is designed to support students with demonstrated financial need.

Benefits Covered Under GRE Fee Waiver

• Reduced GRE General Test registration fee

• Reduced GRE Subject Test fee

• Free access to official GRE preparation materials

• Free full-length practice tests

• Online writing practice tools

In monetary terms, a successful waiver can save over USD 200 when combining test fee reductions and free prep resources.

Is There a GRE Exam Fee Waiver for Indian Students in 2026?

❌ ETS does NOT currently offer a direct GRE exam fee waiver for Indian students applying from India.

Why?

The official ETS GRE Fee Reduction Program is restricted to applicants who are:

• US citizens or permanent residents

• Studying or residing in specific US territories

As of 2026, international students (including Indians) are not eligible for the ETS-issued GRE fee reduction voucher.

Who Is Eligible for the Official ETS GRE Fee Waiver?

Although Indian students are not eligible, it is important to understand the criteria for context and transparency.

ETS Fee Waiver Eligibility (Official Program)

Eligible applicants must be:

• US citizens or resident aliens

• College seniors receiving financial aid

• Unenrolled applicants who have applied for financial aid

• Recently unemployed individuals (with proof)

ETS evaluates eligibility using:

• FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR)

• Proof of unemployment (if applicable)

📌 Important: This program is not open to international students, including Indian nationals.

Alternative GRE Fee Waiver Options for Indian Students (2026)

Although ETS does not directly support Indian students, several alternative programs and organizations can help reduce GRE costs.

Education USA Opportunity Funds Program (OFP)

• Supported by the US Department of State

• Offers GRE fee assistance to high-achieving, financially disadvantaged Indian students

• Available through selected EducationUSA advising centers in India

University-Sponsored GRE Fee Support

Many universities and graduate programs:

• Reimburse GRE fees after admission

• Provide application and test fee grants

• Offer GRE vouchers through diversity or access initiatives

Scholarship & Fellowship Programs

Some global programs indirectly cover GRE expenses:

• Research fellowships

• Merit-based access programs

• Diversity-focused graduate initiatives

Indian students are encouraged to check with universities, NGOs, and academic advisors they are associated with.

How to Apply for GRE Fee Waiver Programs (If Eligible)

ETS GRE Fee Reduction Program (For Eligible Applicants)

Applicants must:

1. Complete the GRE Fee Reduction Request Form (PDF)

2. Submit required financial documents

3. Wait for approval (typically within 2 weeks)

4. Receive a GRE voucher code via email

⚠️ The waiver applies only once per test attempt.

Applying Through Alternative Organizations

• Visit official websites of the programs

• Check eligibility requirements

• Contact coordinators directly

• Apply well in advance of test dates

Other Ways Indian Students Can Reduce GRE Costs in 2026

If you don’t qualify for any GRE exam fee waiver, here are practical cost-saving strategies:

1. Plan for a Single Test Attempt

• Prepare thoroughly to avoid retakes

• Use free ETS resources and official materials

2. Use Free GRE Preparation Tools

• ETS provides free PowerPrep tests

• Many platforms offer free diagnostic exams

3. Apply Early

• Avoid late rescheduling fees

• Plan score reporting carefully

4. Choose Universities Strategically

• Shortlist universities wisely to reduce score-sending costs

Why GRE Fee Waiver Awareness Matters for Indian Students

Understanding the reality of the GRE exam fee waiver for Indian students 2026 helps you:

• Set realistic expectations

• Avoid misinformation

• Plan finances early

• Explore legitimate alternatives

While a direct ETS waiver is unavailable, many Indian students successfully reduce costs through planning, scholarships, and institutional support.

FAQs: GRE Exam Fee Waiver for Indian Students 2026

Q1. Is there a GRE exam fee waiver for Indian students 2026?

No. As of 2026, ETS does not offer a direct GRE exam fee waiver for Indian students. However, Indian students can explore alternative programs like EducationUSA and university-based support.

Q2. Can Indian students get a GRE fee reduction through ETS?

No. The ETS GRE Fee Reduction Program is limited to US citizens and permanent residents.

Q3. Are there any alternatives to reduce GRE exam costs for Indian students?

Yes. Alternatives include EducationUSA Opportunity Funds, university reimbursements, fellowships, and strategic test planning.

Q4. Does the GRE fee waiver include free preparation material?

Yes, when applicable, the fee waiver includes free official practice tests and writing tools.

Key Takeaways for Indian Students (2026)

• GRE exam cost remains a major investment

• No direct ETS fee waiver for Indian students

• Multiple alternative funding and support options exist

• Early planning significantly reduces expenses

• GRE remains a valuable gateway to global education

CTA: Plan Your GRE & Study Abroad Journey for 2026

🎯 Preparing for GRE 2026? Don’t let exam costs hold you back.

👉 Explore GRE-friendly universities worldwide

👉 Check scholarships and fee support programs

👉 Get GRE preparation guidance and application help

👉 Plan your test attempt strategically

🔗 Explore GRE Preparation Resources

🔗 Find Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students

🔗 Connect with a Study Abroad Advisor