Aadhaar can be ID proof for GRE, TOEFL

Education Testing Service (ETS) has allowed use of Aadhar card for GRE and TOFEL Exams.

Key points

• Indian students who are writing GRE or TOEFL examinations will be allowed to use their Aadhaar cards as identification proof from July 1, 2021.
• This decision was taken by Educational Testing Service as many students have faced difficulties in getting passports amid the COVID-19 induced lockdowns.

Educational Testing Service (ETS)

ETS conducts the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). These are standardised tests which are required to be passed to get admission in many universities in United States and elsewhere. Earlier, passport was the only accepted identification proof so far for those taking tests in India. Aadhar card will be applicable for TOEFL and GRE General home-based tests which have gained popularity during pandemic. These Internet-based tests conducted at designated centres. It will also be applicable to the new TOEFL Essentials Test which will start from August 2021 and on GRE Subject Tests which will start in October 2021.

Is this a permanent measure?

No, this decision was taken as a temporary measure. It will come into effect from July 1 and will be applicable until further notice.

About Aadhaar

It is a 12-digit unique identity number which can be obtained voluntarily by residents or passport holders of India. It is based biometric and demographic data. Data is collected by Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) which is a statutory authority established in January 2009. It comes under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Aadhaar is world’s largest biometric ID system. it is considered a proof of residence but not a proof of citizenship. It does not grant any rights to domicile in India.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2021