(AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

The ETS has created a GRE Fee Reduction Program to cut the general test fee in half for unemployed individuals who are exploring graduate school options. This is an opportunity that is limited to an undisclosed number of fee reductions, on a first-come, first served basis. Once the limit is reached, according to the ETS, all registrants will be required to pay the full price.

To be eligible, the test taker must be a US citizen or resident alien who is unemployed and has become unemployed in the last 6 months. Proof of unemployment is required as part of the application process.  A copy of an Unemployment Benefits Statement in the past 90 days serves as proof.

The general test must be taken in the computer-based format in the US, Puerto Rico, Guam, or the US Virgin Islands. The paper-based test is not part of the program, neither is the subject test. However, other fee reduction opportunities are available for qualified test takers interested in the subject tests.

Eligibility for the GRE Fee Reduction Program for the unemployed is a one time only opportunity. Rescheduling a test and refunds are not possible under the program. If a test taker must reschedule, the benefit is forfeited, and the test taker must pay for the subsequent test date. Unused vouchers and fees for those who are not admitted to the test for any reason (such as lack of identification) are not refunded.

Test takers will also benefit from the free GRE Search Service that helps match academic and fellowship programs with potential students.  To participate in the free service, test takers need to complete the background information in the registration bulletin and give consent to release general information, such as broad GPA and test score categories.

For more information regarding the GRE, check out:

What is the GRE? Part I: General test

What is the GRE? Part II: Subject test

Janelle Jalbert is the founder of Edusistance and creator of the Race to College Success program. Janelle can be reached via email.