When preparing for the GRE, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to take the test from the comfort of your own home or at a designated testing centre. Both options come with their own set of advantages and challenges, and the right choice for you will depend on your personal preferences, technical setup, and test-day priorities. This blog explores the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.
Taking the GRE at Home: Advantages and Considerations
The introduction of at-home testing has provided a convenient alternative for students who prefer a more flexible approach to taking the GRE. One of the most significant advantages of this option is the ability to schedule the test at a time that suits your individual needs. Whether you’re a working professional, a full-time student, or someone with other commitments, the 24/7 availability of the at-home GRE means you can take the test without the pressure of fitting it into a limited testing centre schedule.
Another appealing aspect of taking the GRE at home is the environment. You’ll be able to test in the comfort of your own space, using your own computer, chair, and desk things that are familiar to you. This can be less stressful compared to the often sterile and unfamiliar surroundings of a testing centre.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that at-home testing requires strict technical specifications and compliance with security protocols. To take the GRE at home, you’ll need:
- A desktop or laptop computer (tablets and mobile devices are not permitted).
- A single keyboard and monitor setup (dual monitors are not allowed).
- A functional webcam capable of conducting 360-degree room scans to ensure no unauthorized materials are within your reach.
- A microphone and working speakers (headphones are prohibited).
You’ll also be required to follow strict guidelines regarding note-taking. At-home test-takers are allowed only a small whiteboard with an erasable marker or a single sheet of paper placed in a transparent sheet protector for writing notes.
Privacy and Security at Home
Another consideration for those opting for the GRE at home is the strict privacy and security measures. During the test, you must be alone in a private room with no interruptions. You cannot take the test in a public place or with anyone else in the room. This means no one can enter your testing area, even if it’s just to ask a question. Such measures are put in place to maintain the integrity of the exam, but minor distractions such as a roommate walking in can result in your test being cancelled.
Taking the GRE at a Testing Centre
For those who value reliability and prefer a controlled environment, taking the GRE at a testing centre may be the best option. Testing centres offer a regulated, secure environment with fewer technical hurdles. Upon arrival, you will go through biometric verification and passport checks to ensure the security of the exam process.
Testing centres also provide all the necessary materials, including noise-cancelling headphones, transparent spiral-bound sheets for note-taking, and secure lockers for your personal belongings. The environment is generally quiet and optimized for test-taking, which can help you focus.
Why Some Students Prefer Testing Centres
Despite the flexibility offered by at-home testing, many students still prefer to take the GRE at a testing centre due to the following reasons:
- Technical Reliability: One of the major risks with at-home testing is technical failure. An unstable internet connection, power outage, or computer malfunction could disrupt your test and potentially cancel your attempt. Testing centres eliminate this risk, as they are equipped with reliable technology and uninterrupted power sources.
- Security and Integrity: At-home proctoring is subject to strict scrutiny, and even minor violations such as moving your lips while reading or unintentionally glancing at unauthorized materials can be flagged as cheating. Testing centres provide a secure environment with professional proctors, reducing the chances of misunderstandings or score cancellations.
- Score Validity: While GRE scores taken at home are accepted by most universities, there have been instances where schools have raised concerns about the security and integrity of home-based testing. In some cases, institutions have been hesitant to accept online scores or have revoked admission offers after suspecting fraud. This risk is minimized when you take the test at a certified testing centre.
Key Considerations Before Making Your Decision
Choosing between at-home and in-person testing is not a decision to be taken lightly. Before making your choice, here are a few factors to consider:
- School Requirements: Check if the graduate programs you’re applying to accept home-based GRE scores. While most schools do, it’s best to confirm with your specific programs.
- Technical Setup: Ensure that your computer, internet connection, and room meet the GRE’s technical requirements for at-home testing. Inadequate equipment or a poor internet connection can lead to significant delays or test cancellations.
- Comfort with Security Protocols: At-home testing comes with very strict security measures, and it’s crucial to be comfortable with the process. You’ll need to ensure no unauthorized materials are in the room and that you remain alone during the entire test.
- Test Centre Availability: Check the availability of nearby testing centres and the scheduling options. In some cases, especially during peak testing seasons, securing a spot at a testing centre may be difficult.
Making the Right Choice for You
Ultimately, the decision of whether to take the GRE at home or in person should be based on your personal preferences and circumstances. If you value flexibility, are confident in your technical setup, and are prepared to adhere to strict security protocols, taking the test at home can offer a more convenient option. On the other hand, if you prefer a controlled environment with fewer technical risks and greater peace of mind, taking the test at a testing centre may be the better choice.
Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option before making your decision. Regardless of where you choose to take the GRE, the most important factor is to ensure that you’re fully prepared for the test, so you can achieve the best score possible for your graduate school applications.
Why Choose Our GRE Prep Program?
At The Princeton Review Singapore, we are committed to helping you achieve your best GRE score and reach your academic and career goals. With over 40 years of experience and a track record of guiding more than 10 million students globally, we understand what it takes to succeed on the GRE. Whether you’re preparing to apply for graduate school or aiming for top business schools, our GRE prep program is designed to provide you with the tools and support needed for maximum performance.
Flexible Learning Options: In-Person or Online Live Classes
We offer both in-person and online live GRE prep classes, allowing you to choose the format that fits your lifestyle and study preferences. No recorded sessions — our expert trainers deliver live, interactive lessons that provide immediate feedback, ensuring you stay on track to achieve your target score.
Realistic Full-Length Mock Tests for Effective Preparation
Practice makes perfect, which is why we offer regular full-length mock tests throughout your GRE prep. These realistic tests simulate the actual exam experience, helping you build stamina and manage time effectively. We conduct full-length mock tests every 15 days, so you can continuously measure your progress and fine-tune your strategy before the big day.
Expert Tips and Tricks for GRE Success
Success on the GRE requires more than just knowledge — it’s also about strategy. Our expert faculty provides critical tips for test day, helping you understand how to approach each section efficiently. In addition to test day guidance, we offer post-test counseling to help you plan your next steps, ensuring that your GRE journey is as smooth and successful as possible.
Our Proven 8-Step GRE Prep Course
We’ve designed a comprehensive, step-by-step program to ensure that you’re fully prepared for the GRE:
- Pre-assessment Mock Test:
Begin with a detailed analysis of your strengths and weaknesses. This pre-assessment mock test helps you understand the GRE exam structure, while our faculty will create a personalized study plan based on your performance.
- GRE Preparation Classes:
Engage in 40 hours of expert-led, live GRE classes, offered in both regular (2.5 months) and fast-track (1 month) formats. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention, so you get the most out of each session.
- Assessment Tests Every 15 Days:
Stay motivated and on track with bi-weekly assessment tests that gauge your progress. These tests provide invaluable insights into areas for improvement, helping you adjust your study plan as needed.
- Extensive Study Material:
Gain access to our proprietary Princeton Review GRE books, as well as a wide range of online resources, including practice tests and drills. With more than 120 hours of practice material monitored by faculty, you’ll have everything you need to succeed.
- Live Faculty-Driven Improvement:
Receive continuous feedback from our expert faculty after each assessment test. Based on your test performance, we’ll provide extra study material to target your weak areas, ensuring you’re always improving.
- Booster Sessions (15 Days Before the Test):
As your test date approaches, our booster sessions ensure that you’re fully prepared. Topic-wise assessment tests for students aiming for 80th percentile or higher are conducted in the final 15 days before the test, along with proctored tests and doubt-clearing sessions to maximize your score.
- Critical Test Day Tips:
On the day before your GRE, you’ll receive key advice from experienced mentors about what to do — and what to avoid — to ensure you perform at your best. Senior faculty will be available to answer any last-minute questions, helping you reduce anxiety and boost your confidence.
- Post-Test Support:
Once you’ve completed the GRE, we offer post-test support, including free counseling sessions with our admission experts. If you need to retake the exam, we provide score improvement support, guiding you on how to maximize your results.
Let Us Help You Succeed
Choosing The Princeton Review Singapore means partnering with a proven team dedicated to your success. Our comprehensive and structured approach, combined with expert instruction and personalized feedback, ensures that you’ll be fully prepared for your GRE exam. Whether you choose to take the GRE at home or at a testing centre, we’re here to help you maximize your potential and reach your academic goals.