GRE Prep and Application Timeline for Fall Intake

If you want to apply for a graduate program with a Fall intake, your GRE preparation and timing will be crucial. Fall is the most competitive admission season, especially in the US, and to stay ahead, it's essential to plan your test dates and application process well in advance.

Here is a month-by-month breakdown of what your timeline should look like.

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Knowing the Deadlines for the Applications

Most top universities have deadlines for the Fall intake between December and January. Some highly competitive programs or those offering scholarships may have earlier deadlines in October or November. Knowing these dates early will help you plan your GRE preparation and application steps without any last-minute stress.

Ideal GRE Preparation and Test Schedule

Activity	Recommended Timeframe	What to Focus On
Research and Shortlist Programs	May to September	Identify universities, GRE score requirements, and application deadlines
Begin GRE Preparation	May to June	Start early to allow a two to three month preparation window
Take a Diagnostic Test	At the beginning of your prep	Understand your strengths and weaknesses
Intensive GRE Study Period	June to August	Practice consistently using study materials and mock exams
First GRE Attempt	July to August	Take the test early to allow time for a possible retake
GRE Retake if Necessary	September to October	Allows for the 21-day retake policy and on-time score reporting
Finalize Application Materials	October to November	Work on essays, recommendations, and document collection
Submit Applications	November to December	Ensure everything is submitted before university deadlines

Key Points to Keep in Mind

• Begin GRE preparation early, ideally in May or June, to allow sufficient time without undue pressure.

• Taking your first attempt in July or August gives you the option to retake it in September or October if needed.

• GRE scores are usually available in 10 to 15 days, so always leave a 2–3 week gap between your test date and the application deadline.

• While preparing for the GRE, also start gathering transcripts, reaching out for recommendation letters, and shortlisting your universities. Doing these tasks early will save you from last-minute work later on.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

May to June

Begin researching graduate programs and start your GRE preparation

June to August

Continue studying with complete focus and take diagnostic and mock tests

July to August

Take your first GRE test attempt

September to October

Retake the GRE if necessary, and focus on refining your application essays and letters of recommendation.

October to November

Finalize all documents and prepare for submission

November to December

Submit your applications before the deadlines

Summary Table

Task	Ideal Timeframe
Start GRE Preparation	May to June
First GRE Attempt	July to August
GRE Retake if Needed	September to October
Finalize Application Work	October to November
Submit Applications	November to December

Conclusion

To make your application process smoother, start preparing for the GRE by late spring. Try to take your first attempt no later than August, and keep enough buffer time to retake it before October if necessary. This ensures your scores are ready on time, and you have enough time to focus on the rest of your application.

We know and understand that the application process can be overwhelming, so we are here for you. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way. From preparing for entrance exams to college applications, we will guide you to success.

Feel free to reach out to us at Hello Study Global.