Is Taking the GRE More Than Once Recommended for Grad School Admissions?

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SUMMARY

Taking the GRE multiple times is generally acceptable and not frowned upon by graduate schools. Many applicants, including those in physics and other subjects, successfully take the GRE more than once to improve their scores. It is crucial to consider the timing of the second attempt; for instance, taking the Subject GRE in October may be risky for schools with early December deadlines, as they will see both scores submitted. Overall, applicants should plan their GRE schedule carefully to ensure that their best scores are available for review before application deadlines.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GRE testing structure and scoring
  • Familiarity with graduate school application timelines
  • Knowledge of specific subject GRE tests, such as the Math Subject GRE
  • Awareness of how graduate schools evaluate multiple GRE scores
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the policies of specific graduate programs regarding GRE score submissions
  • Learn about effective GRE preparation strategies for retaking the exam
  • Investigate the implications of score reporting for multiple GRE attempts
  • Explore the timeline for GRE testing and graduate school application deadlines
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students, academic advisors, and anyone preparing for the GRE who seeks to understand the impact of multiple test attempts on admissions decisions.

nsatya
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I had a couple of questions about getting ready for grad school, mainly about taking the GRE(physics & general). I'm starting my 4th year this fall and will be applying to grad school next fall, since it's taking me 4 and a half years to graduate. As far as the GRE, I was planning on taking it twice - once in Spring 2010 and next in the early Fall 2010 before I apply. One of my concerns was, do grad schools frown upon students taking the GRE more than once? And if I get a better score the 2nd time, will they receive the 2nd score in a sufficient amount of time before making their decision? Any help with this will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
 
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I don't think grad schools would look down on you taking the GRE twice, although I can't be entirely sure. During one of my grad school visits, I met someone who took the Math Subject GRE twice and he ended up going to a really good place. But again, I could be wrong about this.

And about taking the subject GRE in the fall, assuming you take it in October, grad schools with deadlines in December should receive it, although if the deadline is at the beginning of December then it's kind of risky.
 
just be aware that graduate schools will see both of your scores
 

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