When is too late to take the GRE for fall admission?

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SUMMARY

The latest advisable date to take the GRE for fall graduate school admission is August, allowing sufficient time for score processing and potential retakes. Scores from the GRE typically take around six weeks to be reported, and most applications are due in December of the preceding year. The physics GRE can only be taken three times per year at designated paper-based testing centers, while the general GRE is available at computerized testing centers year-round, with specific restrictions in certain Asian countries.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GRE testing formats and timelines
  • Familiarity with application deadlines for graduate programs
  • Knowledge of study techniques for standardized tests
  • Awareness of the differences between the general GRE and subject-specific GREs
NEXT STEPS
  • Research GRE preparation strategies for short-term study
  • Explore the registration process for the physics GRE
  • Investigate the implications of GRE scores on graduate school applications
  • Learn about the differences between computerized and paper-based GRE testing
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Undergraduate students planning to apply for graduate programs, particularly those in applied physics or related fields, as well as academic advisors assisting students with graduate school admissions.

d3nat
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Roughly, when is the latest I could take the GRE for fall grad school admission?

I'm a second semester junior currently, and I am planning on going straight to grad school after senior year.
Would taking the GRE (applied physics major) in the fall (around September) be too late?

Also, about how long is a decent enough time to study in advance?
I'm much better at short term studying (meaning I can cram very well vs studying over a long period because I wind up getting bored with the material too quickly).

Thanks
 
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It takes around 6 weeks for you to get your scores from a GRE exam. Most grad school applications are due ~December of the year before you plan on starting grad school. Also, consider the time it takes for the ETS to send official score reports to the schools you are applying to.

I took the physics GRE in the beginning of November of my senior year and that was definitely cutting it close! I would shoot for August at the latest. That way, you also have a chance to retake it if you need to.
 
You can take the general GRE any time at one of the computerized testing centers, except in certain Asian countries:

http://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/register/centers_dates/

However, you can take the physics GRE only three times per year, at one of the paper-based testing centers:

http://www.ets.org/gre/subject/register/centers_dates/
 

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