Hi, I’ve been preparing for the GRE for a while. I studied all the Quant flashcards in June (Verbal I don’t need that much help in because I have a strong foundation - my undergrad degree is in the humanities). I haven’t studied for the past month due to exams, but I really need to step it up in the next few months. My primary aim for a Master’s program doesn’t require the GRE, but my current university does (and I’d quite like to be able to apply because of the choice it affords me). I’m aiming for a 320+, and in the 2nd GregMat Practice Exam (taken just a couple days ago) I got a 313 (160V 153Q). Practice Test 1, which I took in May to set a baseline, was a 151Q 156V. My deadline for taking the GRE is early November. I don’t know if I should just take the exam as a Hail Mary in the next week and then retake it until November, or if I should be preparing more until I’m more confident. Money is not much of an issue. I know about the annual rolling thing, and I may be able to retake next year because of the visa options the country I am currently residing in allows me. Should I take the GRE now and maybe hope for a retake or take it once I’ve done some more preparation? What should my schedule look like going until November?
Greetings!
It seems that you’ve already taken the important steps, and it’s great that you’re thinking strategically about timing and retakes. I immediately recognize two schools of thought for this particular fork in the road:
- Take the GRE soon as a trial run:
This gives you firsthand experience with the real test environment, which can reveal useful insights about your pacing, stress response, and stamina. If the score isn’t where you want it, you’ll still have time to prepare and retake by November. The test environment (assuming you’re taking it in person) is unique, and we can only prepare so much at home for it.
- Focus on targeted preparation and marginal improvements before taking it:
Especially since your goal is 320+, and your Quant score currently lags behind your Verbal, you might benefit from a few focused weeks of Quant-focused prep in addition to Verbal maintenance. Using ETS’ PowerPrep practice tests can give you a better sense of where you stand since they mirror the official exam more closely than third-party options (sorry GregMat).
If budget isn’t a big concern and you’re confident you’ll have another shot before the deadline, an early test could provide valuable data. And of course, this is simply my personal advice based on the info you’ve shared—please take it as one perspective, not a definitive directive.
Hope this helps!!
Recently got a 323 on PP1 (yesterday) and a 320 on PP2 (today). I’ve heard various reports from people accepted to my target program ranging from 300 to 325, though mostly in the 310s range. Should I be worried?