For many Australians with their sights set on postgraduate study in the United States or other international destinations, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a crucial step in the journey. But as the landscape of global education evolves, so does the GRE—bringing new formats, updated policies, and changing costs in 2025. Whether you’re considering business school, engineering, or the arts, understanding the GRE’s role and requirements is essential for a smooth transition from Australian uni to overseas campus life.
What Is the GRE and Why Does It Matter for Australians?
The GRE is a standardised exam used by thousands of graduate and business schools worldwide—most notably in the US, but also increasingly in Europe, Canada, and parts of Asia. Unlike the GMAT (which is business-focused), the GRE is accepted for a broad range of postgraduate programs, from engineering and science to humanities and MBA tracks.
- Global recognition: Over 1,300 business schools accept GRE scores, including top-tier MBA programs.
- Flexibility: The GRE is offered online and in testing centres, making it accessible across major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
- Visa and funding implications: Strong GRE scores can bolster scholarship applications and sometimes even impact student visa success rates, especially for competitive US programs.
2025 GRE Updates: What’s Changed?
ETS, the test administrator, has overhauled the GRE format and experience for 2025 to make it more streamlined and candidate-friendly. Here’s what’s new and noteworthy for Aussie test-takers:
- Shorter test duration: The GRE now clocks in at under 2 hours, down from nearly 4 hours pre-2023, making it less gruelling and more accessible for busy grads.
- Faster results: Unofficial scores are available immediately after the test, with official reports released in 8-10 days—key for tight application deadlines.
- Remote proctoring: The online GRE can be taken at home with updated security protocols, giving greater flexibility to regional and rural Australian students.
- Cost in 2025: The GRE General Test fee for Australian residents is USD $220 (around AUD $335 as of June 2025), plus extra charges for rescheduling or sending additional score reports.
Keep in mind: test fees are subject to currency fluctuations, so always check the latest exchange rates and consider booking early to avoid last-minute price jumps.
Real-World Examples: How Aussies Use the GRE to Launch Global Careers
Let’s look at how the GRE has opened doors for recent Australian graduates:
- Case Study 1: Priya, a Monash science grad, used her strong GRE scores to secure a place (and a partial scholarship) at Columbia University for a Master’s in Public Health.
- Case Study 2: James, a UQ engineering alumnus, leveraged the GRE for admission to a top US engineering school, which accepted his GRE scores in lieu of the GMAT for an MBA/Engineering dual degree.
- Case Study 3: Emily, a UNSW arts graduate, used her GRE results to apply for a Fulbright Scholarship, successfully gaining funding for her studies in the United States.
These examples highlight the GRE’s versatility and its value beyond just US-bound students. Many European and Asian universities now consider GRE scores for English-language postgraduate programs, making it a truly global credential.
How to Prepare: Tips and Resources for Australian Students
Getting GRE-ready in 2025 means more than just cramming vocab lists. Here’s how to approach your prep:
- Use official materials: ETS provides free practice tests and question banks tailored to the 2025 test format.
- Tap into local study groups: Universities like the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne often run GRE info sessions and study workshops for prospective postgrad applicants.
- Budget for the test: Set aside funds for the test fee, potential resits, and extra score reports (AUD $40 each in 2025). Don’t forget to factor in currency swings.
- Plan your timeline: Allow at least 2-3 months for prep, and schedule your GRE at least 6 weeks before application deadlines to ensure timely score reporting.
Conclusion: GRE as Your Gateway to Global Study
The GRE remains a vital passport for Australian graduates aiming to study at world-class institutions. With the streamlined test format and expanded digital options in 2025, it’s more accessible than ever. Take the time to understand the new changes, plan your prep, and leverage your GRE score to unlock scholarships and international study opportunities.
