GRE at Home

The GRE at Home Exam is a remote version of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), a standardized test commonly used for admissions to graduate and business school programs in the United States and around the world. This at-home option was introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, offering test-takers a convenient and safe way to take the GRE from the comfort of their own homes. In this explanation, I will provide detailed information about the GRE at Home Exam, including its format, registration process, technical requirements, and tips for success. 

1. Format of the GRE at Home Exam:

The GRE at Home Exam closely mirrors the traditional GRE in terms of content, structure, and scoring. It consists of three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. 

• Analytical Writing: This section includes two tasks – the Issue Task and the Argument Task. Test-takers are required to analyze an issue and an argument, respectively, and write essays on these topics. 
• Verbal Reasoning: This section assesses your ability to understand and evaluate written material. It includes questions on reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, and text completion. 
• Quantitative Reasoning: This section measures your problem-solving and mathematical skills. It comprises multiple questions and quantitative comparison questions. 

The GRE at Home Exam does not include the unscored research section and the on-screen calculator found in the test center version. 

2. Registration and Scheduling:

To register for the GRE at Home Exam, you need to create an ETS (Educational Testing Service) account on the official GRE website. After logging in, you can select the option to take the at-home exam. You’ll be asked to provide personal information, choose the test date and time that suits you, and pay the exam fee. It’s important to note that the at-home GRE is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s advisable to schedule your test well in advance. 

3. Technical Requirements:

Taking the GRE at Home Exam requires a computer or laptop that meets specific technical requirements, ensuring a smooth testing experience:

• Windows or Mac operating system
• A stable and high-speed internet connection
• ETS-approved computer and internet browser (details are available on the ETS website)
• A built-in or external webcam
• A microphone
• A quiet, well-lit room for the exam

You’ll also need to download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser, which is used to administer the exam and monitor the test-taker throughout the session. 

4. Exam Day Preparation:

On the day of your GRE at Home Exam, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Here are some key steps to follow:

• Ensure your computer and internet connection are working properly. 
• Set up your testing space: Choose a quiet, well-lit room with no distractions. 
• Close any unnecessary applications on your computer. 
• Have your ID (e. g., passport, driver’s license) ready for identity verification. 
• Make sure your microphone and webcam are functioning correctly. 

Log in to your ETS account well in advance of your scheduled test time to check for any system updates or issues.

5. Test-Taking Experience:

The GRE at Home Exam is monitored remotely by a human proctor. During the exam, you’ll be observed through your webcam and microphone to ensure test security and integrity. It’s essential to follow the proctor’s instructions and maintain a quiet, focused testing environment. 

• You’ll complete the exam sections in the same order as the traditional GRE: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. 
• There will be breaks between sections, and you can take a break for a few minutes during these intervals. 
• You can use a whiteboard or physical notepad for scratch work. Still, it must be shown to the proctor before and after each section. 
• The entire testing session, including check-in and security procedures, may take approximately 4-5 hours.

6. Score Reporting:

Your GRE at Home Exam scores will be reported in the same format as the test center version. You will receive a separate score for the Analytical Writing section and a combined score for Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning, ranging from 130 to 170 in one-point increments. Your scores will be available approximately 10-15 days after the exam date, and you can send them to the schools or programs of your choice. 

7. Test-Day Tips:

To perform well on the GRE at Home Exam, consider the following tips:

• Practice with official GRE study materials and take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and content. 
• Maintain a regular study schedule in the weeks leading up to the exam. 
• Take care of your physical and mental well-being by getting enough rest, eating well, and managing stress. 
• Follow all instructions provided by ETS and the proctor during the exam. 
• Stay calm and focused, and don’t let technical issues or distractions affect your performance.

In conclusion, the GRE at Home Exam provides a convenient option for individuals seeking to pursue graduate or business school programs. It closely mirrors the traditional GRE in terms of content and scoring and offers the flexibility of taking the exam from your own home. However, it’s crucial to meet the technical requirements, prepare adequately, and follow test-day instructions to ensure a successful testing experience and obtain competitive scores for your graduate school applications.