How to Avoid Tech Issues When Taking the GRE at Home

I. Understanding the GRE at Home Test

The GRE test at home is the same GRE general test that you take at a test center in terms of format, questions, and difficulty. The primary difference is the GRE home test is delivered online and at home via your own computer. Additionally, you are responsible for ensuring your technology and test room follow ETS policies and procedures, both factors taken care of for you at a test center. You will be monitored by a human via a platform called “ProctorU,” and this person will surveil your video camera and microphone while you take the test. Before the test begins, you will need to show the proctor your ID, and the proctor will require a 360-degree view of the room you're in to ensure it complies with testing rules. To learn more about the GRE, click here: What is the GRE.  

II. Common Technical Problems During the GRE at Home

Although the at-home test may seem less stressful in certain ways compared to an in-person test, especially if get nervous testing in public spaces, it comes with potential technical issues that many test takers encounter; these issues can cause you stress and possibly invalidate your GRE test, so you should know about them before taking your home test! To avoid a variety of GRE mistakes, click here: GRE Mistakes That Can Cost You Points. 

• Wifi problems - some students experience lagging or failing wifi on the day of their test. This can interrupt the GRE test and, if the connection drops completely, potentially terminate your GRE at home. 
• Webcam and microphone issues - if your camera or microphone malfunctions, the system may render your test session not adequately proctored and invalidate it.
• Disconnecting from the proctor - if your proctor becomes disconnected at any point, this can potentially invalidate your GRE test.

III. Before Test Day: Technical Setup Checklist

Before you take the at-home test on test day, make sure you complete the following checklist to avoid potential mishaps: 

• Ensure your computer's operating system and internet browser are updated to the latest versions 
• Ensure your computer meets Educational Testing Service requirements
• Check your internet speed (2 MBPS for uploads/downloads minimum)
• Ask household members to avoid using large amounts of bandwidth during your GRE at home and request there be no interruptions while you test at home
• Install the software for ProctorU and run ETS’ system check 
• Allow any required permissions for your microphone, camera, computer screen sharing and pop-ups 
• Do an equipment check and make sure that your webcam and microphone are working 
• Plug your computer in (don’t rely on a laptop’s battery)
• Select a quiet room for test day and clear the table space around your computer; you are allowed to have the following materials: a whiteboard, a transparent sheet protector and one sheet of paper for note taking, erasable marker and eraser, and a clear water bottle. No mobile devices are permitted for taking the GRE at home test. The test cannot be taken on a cell phone or tablet - only a laptop or computer. Avoid wearing face masks. If you would like to sign up for the GRE, learn how by clicking here: How to Register for GRE in 2026.

IV. During the Test: How to Handle Technical Issues

If you encounter tech issues during your home test, try your best to stay calm. If your screen freezes, wait 10 - 20 seconds to see if the issue resolves itself; if not, contact your proctor through the test platform’s chat function -  they will advise you on how to proceed. Never close your browser window or restart your computer without being told to do so by your proctor. If your internet disconnects during your at home test, ask your proctor to restart your session as soon as you are reconnected. If your proctor stops responding at any point, wait 1 - 2 minutes before taking action; if there is still no response, the system may provide you with on-screen instructions or offer a controlled refresh in order to resolve connection issues. If the software running the secure browser crashes, reopen it using the same browser link and let your proctor know what happened right away. To decide when you might like to book your GRE, click here: GRE Test Dates 2026 - Official Schedule.

V. After the Test: Reporting and Retesting Options

If your GRE general test at home is interrupted or invalidated, note the following:

• If your GRE exam at home is interrupted due to technical issues, notify your proctor as soon as possible and follow their instructions. The proctor will log technical issues. Minor technical issues that can be resolved quickly typically don’t cause your at-home test to be invalidated.
• A GRE test at home may be invalidated if ETS has reason to believe you violated the rules, had items in your possession that are not permitted in the exam, or if the connection to your proctor was lost for a significant time.
• Scores for an invalid at-home test will not be reported 
• If your exam is invalidated or interrupted, contact the support line for ETS test takers right away; communicate what happened and when, and any steps you took to resolve the issue. 
• You may be able to request a retest without additional test fees if ETS determines that your GRE general test at home was stopped through no fault of your own, such as technical issues that could not be avoided, issues with the testing software or issues from your proctor. To find out if your past GRE scores are still usable, click here: How Long Are GRE Scores Valid.

VI. Pro Tips to Prevent GRE at Home Tech Failures 

Consider the following tips to avoid tech failures when taking the at-home GRE:

• Test your technology at least one week before your test and again at 24 hours prior. Make sure that all equipment meets ETS’ rules and test the secure browser to ensure it is working
• Using a wired internet connection during the test, if possible, rather than Wi-Fi 
• Keep your computer updated
• On the day of your test, close all other apps except the secure browser 
• If problems arise when you’re taking the test, contact your proctor and try to remain calm 

VII. Conclusion

Although taking the GRE in your own home may be less stressful than a test center in many ways, you’ll want to avoid tech issues in order to have the smoothest testing experience. Many tech issues can be avoided by knowing what to expect during the at-home exam and preparing your technology beforehand, just like you engage in GRE prep to get ready for the exam!

VIII. FAQ

Q: What should I do if I lose internet during the GRE at home?

A: If you lose your internet connection, reconnect as soon as you can. The exam should resume once you are reconnected. Contact your proctor through the test platform’s chat feature and explain the situation. Never restart your computer or the browser unless instructed by the proctor. 

Q: Can I use Wi-Fi instead of wired internet?

A: You are allowed to use wi-fi, but a wired connection is recommended for stability.

Q: What happens if my camera or mic fails mid-test?

A: If your camera or mic fails, contact your proctor immediately through the test platform’s chat function. They will instruct you on how to proceed. 

Q: How early should I test my equipment?

A: Test your equipment one week before your exam and run the equipment check again 24 hours before you take the test. Make use of ETS’ system check and test your camera and microphone. Ensure the ETS secure browser is working without errors.

Q: Who do I contact if I face problems on test day?

A: If you face problems, talk to your proctor first via the test platform. When the test is over, contact ETS’ support line to report any issues.