A good GRE score adds significant value to your university applications. However, achieving a good GRE score or matching the high GRE cutoffs set by universities is not an easy task. Hence, in a scenario where you are not happy or unsatisfied with your GRE score, do not be disheartened as you can take the GRE again. Yes, you heard that right! Let us explore how you can retake the GRE and how to prepare for the same. 

How Can I Retake the GRE?

If you are considering retaking the GRE, here are some things you should keep in mind. To start with, you can only take the GRE 21 days after your first attempt. Additionally, you can take the GRE only five times within a year, that is within 365 days from your first attempt. 

The second thing to note is that you will have to register for the GRE again and will have to pay the GRE exam fee. You can register for the GRE on the official ETS website and you will have to pay the exam fee for GRE again, which is $213 and approximately around INR 15,912. 

How to Prepare for the GRE Retake? 

Here is a step-by-step approach on how you should prepare for your GRE retake:

Step 1: Identify Your Errors 

The first step to preparing for a GRE retake is to identify the errors you committed in your previous GRE attempt. Once you are aware of your mistakes, you can focus on working on them so that you do not repeat the same in your second GRE attempt. 

Step 2: Set a Goal 

The second step after identifying your errors is to set a realistic goal. By now, you must already be aware of the universities you want to apply to and their GRE cutoffs. A quick analysis of your previous GRE score report will help you understand how far you are from your target score and which areas you need to focus on to score higher. Once you are aware of this, you can proceed to work towards achieving your target score. 

Step 3: Chart Out a Plan 

After having identified the areas you need to work on, you can proceed to chart out a study plan for your GRE retake. This study plan might not be as extensive as the one you drafted for your previous GRE attempt. Since you are already familiar with most of the syllabus for GRE, you can focus on working on your weak areas from the syllabus.

Step 4: Revise and Practice 

The fourth step of the preparation process for the GRE retake is to revise and practice the fundamental concepts as much as possible. You can easily do so with GRE mock tests that are available online. However, make sure the mock tests you attempt are from verified and credible sources. 

If you incorporate this step-by-step approach, there is no doubt that you will ace the GRE in the second attempt.  You have prepared well enough, hence, there is no reason to panic. Try your best to stay positive a week before the exam and pursue hobbies and recreational activities that make you feel good. Do not worry, your efforts will not go in vain. All the best!