UC-Irvine Chemistry

[bardo-being]

Hi, I am new to The Grad Cafe!

So, I am going to UC-Irvine for PhD studies in Chemistry, and just got couple of questions for people who know some stuff about the school.

1. Should I be considering starting early? Because, I was told classes start September 20 or so, but I want to get a head start and possibly start during July. And, what is the general process for starting early?

2. I hear that some schools give their graduate students exam on the first day to see if they need any remedial courses, I am just wondering if anyone is aware if UC-Irvine gives their new grad students such exam? If so, how should I go about preparing for it?

I appreciate any other tips/help

Thanks!