Taking the GRE in France:
prepare your registration, budget, and documents

Start with your application timeline, not an open date

First identify the test required: the GRE General Test or, if applicable, another test explicitly named by the program. Check the application cycle, deadline, and required score delivery method. An available test appointment just before the deadline does not ensure that official scores will arrive in time.

For each program, record three separate details: the last acceptable test date, the last date scores may be received, and the evidence required when applying. If the page does not distinguish them, ask admissions to clarify. Do not assume that being able to enter a score yourself eliminates the need for a later official score report.

Review the test fee and services separately

The ETS fee schedule reviewed on October 15, 2026 lists USD 249 under “All other areas of the world,” effective August 1, 2026. Taxes are added at checkout in France; the 2026–27 bulletin also lists a nonrefundable 4% service fee for online orders. Check the total before submitting payment, along with any currency-conversion fees charged by your bank.

The table separates the test fee from additional services. A later score report, rescheduling, or test-center change may affect your budget. Include them only if you need them; commercial test-preparation prices are not part of ETS registration fees.

Make sure your name matches before booking

ETS requires the first and last name on your registration to match the name on the ID you present, subject to its instructions about accents. ID rules depend on the test country and your nationality. In general, you need an original, valid physical government-issued ID with a recognizable photo and signature, subject to exceptions specified by ETS.

Do not assume that a document will be accepted simply because you live in France. Use the official selector for France and check the rules for your nationality. If your name has changed, your ID is expiring, or your situation falls outside the standard rules, resolve the issue with ETS before paying. A student card alone does not become acceptable primary ID for convenience.

Compare the full requirements for each appointment

Create an ETS account or sign in, then search for GRE General Test appointments at a center or at home. Also compare travel, time zone, and equipment requirements. At a center, follow the arrival time in your confirmation. At home, check your computer and room with ETS tools; plan to use your primary webcam and a smartphone or tablet as a second camera.

Fictional example: an early at-home appointment seems to free up your day, but your internet connection and room are only suitable in the evening. Another appointment may be more reliable even if it looks less convenient on the calendar. Choose the option whose requirements you can actually meet.

For at-home testing, complete the IDVaaS identity verification at least 72 hours before the test; if you book later, do it immediately after booking. ETS requires it to be completed before test day. Keep your confirmation and check the date, time, and time zone. The ETS booking system is the source for test centers and availability; this page does not reproduce a city list that could become outdated.

A short checklist

Before paying, check that your chosen test, ID, location or format, time zone, and admissions deadline all align. If your schedule is uncertain, review the change terms for your booking. Keep a record of the amount and services you actually selected.

This planning approach is an Upsilar suggestion. The fees, ID requirements, and terms that apply are those ETS sets for your situation at registration. If your application does not accept your chosen format or test, a correctly completed booking will not resolve that mismatch.