5 Tips for Retaking the GRE

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If you didn’t get the GRE score you were hoping for, you’re not alone–and you still have plenty of options. Many students choose to retake the GRE to raise their scores, and with the right preparation, you can improve your performance the next time around. While every applicant is unique and every grad school program has its own particular guidelines and preferences, there are a number of general factors to consider before deciding to test again and shoot for a higher GRE score.
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How often can you take the GRE?

You can retake the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within any continuous 12-month period, according to the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the official GRE test maker. There is no lifetime limit on the number of times you can take the GRE. However, the five-per-year cap applies even if you cancel your scores, so it’s important to plan your retakes carefully. For the most up-to-date details, check the official ETS GRE retake policy.

Top 5 tips for retaking the GRE to raise your score

If you’re wondering whether retaking the GRE is worth it, here’s the good news: you can take the GRE multiple times, and doing so will not hurt your chances of admission. Thanks to ETS’s ScoreSelect feature, you can decide which GRE scores you send to schools–meaning if you take the GRE three times, you can choose to send only your best set of scores to each program.

Retaking the GRE isn’t just about sitting for the test again–it’s about approaching it strategically. Here’s how to maximize your chances of improving your GRE score:

  • Only retake the GRE if you’re confident you’ll improve.

    Retaking the GRE costs money (around $205), requires time and energy (think of all those study hours), and can be stressful on test day. Don’t go into a retake just hoping for a better result–instead, build a solid prep plan and take multiple practice tests to track your progress. Your official GRE score will likely align closely with your practice test scores, so make sure you’re consistently scoring higher before registering for another attempt.

  • Know how your current score compares to program requirements.

    Before you jump into another GRE attempt, ask: Do you really need a higher score? For example, if a graduate program requires minimum scores of 150 on the verbal and quantitative sections, and you’re already scoring in the mid-150s, retaking the GRE might not significantly improve your application. Many programs weigh other factors, such as research experience, letters of recommendation, and your personal statement, just as heavily as test scores.

  • Consider scholarships and funding opportunities.

    Some graduate programs or scholarships reward applicants with exceptionally high GRE scores. If you’re aiming for one of these awards, raising your GRE score through a retake could be worthwhile. However, if your current score already meets or slightly exceeds the program’s baseline requirements, your time might be better spent strengthening other parts of your application, like your research portfolio or personal essay.

  • Focus on both GRE sections.

    While ETS’s ScoreSelect feature lets you choose which test dates’ scores to send, you cannot mix and match your best verbal and quantitative scores from different test sittings. For example, if you aced quantitative the first time but struggled with verbal, you can’t just focus on verbal during your next attempt and ignore quantitative altogether. Schools will see the full set of scores from each test date, so it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly for both sections every time you take the GRE.

  • Plan your test timeline strategically.

    When scheduling your GRE, work backward from application deadlines to ensure you have time for retakes and score reporting (usually 10-15 days). Make sure to build in enough study time between attempts to improve your performance, rather than rushing into another test too soon–this helps avoid burnout and maximizes your chance of a higher score.


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Retaking the GRE can be an effective way to raise your score–but only if you approach it with a clear, focused strategy. Use practice tests to gauge your progress, understand program requirements, and make sure you’re fully prepared before scheduling another attempt. 

Looking for expert help to boost your GRE score? Kaplan offers GRE prep courses, practice materials, and more to help you achieve your target score on your next try.

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