Timing & Requirements for GRE & TOEFL Exams for Grad School

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the timing and requirements for taking the GRE and TOEFL exams for graduate school applications, specifically for programs in mathematics and related fields. Participants share their experiences and advice regarding test scheduling, subject tests, and the implications of test results on the application process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the appropriate timing for taking the GRE and TOEFL exams, considering application deadlines for graduate school in Fall 2007.
  • Another participant suggests that taking the tests by December 2006 is advisable, especially for those applying for assistantships, while noting that TOEFL scores can be submitted later.
  • There is a discussion about whether to take the subject test in physics in addition to the math subject test, with one participant recommending both for safety.
  • Participants clarify that it does not matter where the tests are taken, including taking them in Switzerland.
  • Questions arise regarding whether test results need to be available before applying, with responses indicating that universities typically require scores to be sent directly from the testing company.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of knowing GRE scores before applying, particularly for competitive schools, and suggests applying early.
  • Another participant asks about the timeline for taking the GRE and TOEFL for a 2009 graduate program application, specifically for UC Berkeley.
  • A suggestion is made to take the GRE in April to allow for a retake before the application process begins.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of timing for taking the GRE and TOEFL exams, but there are varying opinions on the necessity of taking additional subject tests and the timing of applications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding specific timelines and requirements for different universities.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying deadlines and requirements across different universities, indicating that specific school policies may influence the timing and necessity of tests.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for graduate school applications in mathematics and related fields, particularly those considering the GRE and TOEFL exams.

Palindrom
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I'm near the end of my third year, and I'm going to apply for grad school in the summer. There are a couple of things I need to know:

1. Assuming school X wants me to take these tests, and given that I'm going to apply in the summer for enrollment Winter (or Automn) 2007, when do I need to take the tests? This summer, next summer?

2. Regarding the subject test; I'm aplying for math, and going for math. physics and analysis. Should I also take the subject test in physics?

Also, does it matter in any way what country I take the tests in? Say I take them in Switzerland, because I'll be there at the time, could there be any problem with that (I am a swiss citizen, but not currently resident)?
 
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I'll answer the last part first. It doesn't matter where in the world you take the test.

If you wish to enrol in Fall 2007, AND you are also applying for assistantship, then I strongly suggest you have all of your testing done by the end of December 2006, especially the GRE's. TOEFL's exam are really for the admission office and can be delayed till maybe Feb or March. But to be safe, do that around the same time period as your GRE's.

If you are not appling for assistantship, then you have to pay attention to the specific deadlines that a particular school has for admission. This can vary from school to school. The rule of thumb here is that if you are applying to a very desirable/competitive school, the SOONER the BETTER. Less competitive schools in which they seldom reach their maximum capacity will be more relaxed in their deadlines.

Regarding the subject test, to be safe, take both math and physics. But this is only a guess and I would rather you ask someone at the school you intend to apply to.

Zz.
 
Great. Also, Do I need to have the results of the tests before I apply? Or do I just need to specify that I want the results sent to this and that universities?
 
Palindrom said:
Great. Also, Do I need to have the results of the tests before I apply? Or do I just need to specify that I want the results sent to this and that universities?

Most universities would not accept test results sent by you. They want you to have the testing company to mail the results directly to them. So no, you don't need to have the results before you apply. This is true with TOEFL scores. However, with the GRE, especially if you intend to apply to highly popular schools, it is always good to have an idea of what your scores are. So in those cases, it might be a good idea, if you're not sure how well you can do, to take the exam first.

Zz.
 
I would highly recommend taking your GRE tests early enough (sometime this summer/autumn) that you'll know your score when you're applying (and try and get all your application in by December for fall admission). You may want to choose the schools you apply to based on how well you did in the test. Also, if I'm not mistaken, ETS will mail scores to some number of schools (3 or 4?) for free, so it might help (monetarily) to have a rough idea of the schools you intend to apply to. And finally, unless it's absolutely necessary, do not apply for winter or spring admissions.
 
When I said winter I probably meant fall.

Do I not need to chose the schools I want the results to be sent to when I register for the tests? Is it not one of the rubrics (is that a valid English word?)?
 
Similar Question

I am applying in 2008 for 2009 Grad Program.And in which year should I take GRE test and which year TOEFL? If I am applying to UC Berkeley for math,do I have to take any other test besides those 2 mentioned previously?
Thanks!
 
Last edited:
Suggestion: Take the GRE in April. Gives you another chance to take it before you start the application process. Trust me, it's very helpful.
 

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