How Late is Too Late?

[KellyAR0329]

I am working full time and have a part time job. This has caused me to put the GRE on the back burner. I know it is a bad idea, but is the beginning half of October too late to the GRE for Fall 2016? I don't plan on retaking it because I won't have time, obviously. 

[TakeruK]

If you mean, "Will my scores arrive too late?", then it probably is okay. Your scores will be available to view on your online GRE account 10-15 days after your test date. https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/scores/get/

So, as long as you are able to order score reports before the deadlines for your school, it would not be too late.

But if you mean "Is it too late to start preparing now for an exam in about a month?", the answer would depend on your ability and your goal score. I think everyone should take a minimum of ~5 to 10 hours to prepare by doing a little bit of practice in order to get a feel for the test and understand the expectations. Without this, even people with a lot of ability could score way below their potential. So, if your current ability will result the in the score(s) you want, then you can probably fit in 5-10 hours of prep between now and October! 

[GREMasterEMPOWERRichC]

Hi KellyAR0329,

You ask an important question, and I'll be happy to offer some advice, but you haven't provided many details about your specific situation:

1) When are you planning to apply to Grad School? What deadlines are you facing?

2) What is your GRE score goal?

3) Have you done any studying so far? If you have, then what materials have you used?

GRE Masters aren't born, they're made,

Rich

[Yizi]

I am also applying for grad schools for next fall, most of the deadlines are December 1st. I am taking the GRE Sept. 28, so I think you should be good in time.