GRE Accommodations for Grad School Applicants: Complete 2026 Guide
Applying to graduate school is stressful enough — and if you have a disability or health condition, standardized testing can add another layer of complexity. The good news? The GRE offers testing accommodations to ensure equal access for all qualified applicants.
Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), the Graduate Record Examinations provides accommodations for test-takers with documented disabilities and health-related needs.
This blog will cover everything you need to know about GRE accommodations, including eligibility, documentation, approval timelines, and expert tips for graduate school applicants.
What Are GRE Accommodations?
GRE accommodations are approved modifications to standard testing conditions for individuals with disabilities or health conditions that substantially limit major life activities.
These accommodations are designed to provide equal access — not an advantage.
Common categories include:
• Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia)
• ADHD
• Psychological conditions (e.g., anxiety disorders)
• Physical disabilities
• Chronic medical conditions
• Sensory impairments (vision or hearing)
Types of GRE Accommodations Available
ETS offers a wide range of accommodations, depending on documented need:
1. Extended Time
• 25%, 50%, or 100% additional time
2. Extra or Extended Breaks
3. Separate Testing Room
4. Assistive Technology
• Screen magnification
• Selective reading software
• Braille test format
• Large-print test book
5. Alternate Test Formats
• Paper-based versions when necessary
6. Medical Accommodations
• Permission to bring medication, medical devices, food, or water
Who Qualifies for GRE Accommodations?
To qualify, you must:
• Have a diagnosed disability or medical condition
• Provide current documentation
• Demonstrate that the condition impacts test-taking ability
ETS evaluates requests under disability law standards aligned with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Documentation Requirements
Your documentation typically must include:
• A formal diagnosis from a qualified professional
• Description of functional limitations
• Specific recommended accommodations
• Evidence of past accommodations (if applicable)
• Recent evaluation (usually within the past 5 years for many conditions)
⚠️ Incomplete documentation is the #1 reason for delays or denials.
How to Apply for GRE Accommodations
Step 1: Create an ETS Account
Start through your ETS account associated with the GRE.
Step 2: Submit Accommodation Request
Upload required documentation through the ETS Disability Services portal.
Step 3: Wait for Review
Review typically takes several weeks. Plan early — ideally 2–3 months before your intended test date.
Step 4: Receive Decision
If approved, ETS will provide instructions to schedule your accommodated GRE.
How Long Does Approval Take?
Processing times vary, but most requests take 4–6 weeks. During peak grad application season, it may take longer.
Pro Tip: Submit your request before registering for a test date.
Will Schools Know You Used GRE Accommodations?
No. Score reports sent to graduate programs do not indicate whether you tested with accommodations.
Your results are treated the same as any other test-taker’s scores.
What If Your Request Is Denied?
You have the option to:
• Submit additional documentation
• Appeal the decision
• Request reconsideration
Carefully review the denial letter to understand what documentation may be missing.
Key Deadlines to Remember
If you’re applying for Fall admission:
• Begin accommodation process: June–August
• Take the GRE by: October–November
• Application deadlines: Typically, December–January
Planning early prevents last-minute stress.
Tips for Getting Approved
✔️ Make sure documentation clearly links your diagnosis to testing limitations
✔️ Include prior accommodation history (high school, college, other standardized tests)
✔️ Work with a licensed professional familiar with testing documentation
✔️ Keep copies of everything you submit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get GRE accommodations for anxiety?
Yes — if you provide proper documentation showing functional limitations during testing.
Do I need recent testing?
Often yes, especially for learning disabilities and ADHD.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Accommodations are available globally through ETS.
Final Thoughts
GRE accommodations exist to level the playing field — not to give an advantage. If you qualify, you should absolutely use them.
Graduate admissions committees evaluate your academic potential — not how quickly you bubble in answers.
If you’re planning to take the GRE this year, start early, gather strong documentation, and give yourself enough time for review.