Should You Take the GRE During College or After Graduation?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a crucial step for students planning to pursue graduate or business school. One common dilemma is when to take the GRE—during college or after graduation? The answer depends on your academic schedule, career plans, and preparation strategy.
This post will help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and decide the best time for your GRE attempt.
1. Taking the GRE During College
Many students choose to take the GRE while they are still in college. Here’s why it might be a good idea:
✅ Advantages
✔ You Are in Study Mode: Since you’re already in the habit of studying, tackling the GRE feels like an extension of your coursework.
✔ Access to University Resources: You can take advantage of professors, libraries, and study groups to prepare effectively.
✔ More Flexibility: You can take the test without worrying about a full-time job or other post-graduation responsibilities.
✔ Your GRE Score Is Valid for 5 Years: Even if you don’t apply to graduate school immediately, you can use your GRE score later.
❌ Disadvantages
✖ Balancing GRE with College Work: If you already have a heavy course load, preparing for the GRE might be stressful.
✖ Unclear Future Plans: If you’re unsure about pursuing graduate school, taking the GRE early might not be necessary.
2. Taking the GRE After Graduation
If you decide to take the GRE after completing your undergraduate degree, here’s what to consider:
✅ Advantages
✔ More Time to Prepare: You can dedicate more time to GRE prep without worrying about college exams or assignments.
✔ Clearer Career Goals: By the time you take the test, you might have a better idea of your career path and graduate school plans.
✔ Potential Work Experience Advantage: Some graduate programs value work experience, and taking the GRE later allows you to highlight professional achievements.
❌ Disadvantages
✖ Balancing Work and Study: If you start working full-time, finding time to study for the GRE can be challenging.
✖ Being Out of Study Mode: If you take a long break from academics, refreshing your math and verbal skills may take extra effort.
3. Key Factors to Help You Decide
| Factor | Take GRE During College | Take GRE After Graduation |
|---|---|---|
| Study Habits | If you are already in study mode and comfortable with test-taking. | If you need a break from exams and want to focus on work first. |
| Time Availability | If you can balance college work and GRE prep. | If you can dedicate enough time for serious preparation. |
| Graduate School Timeline | If you plan to apply immediately after college. | If you are considering work experience before grad school. |
| Financial Situation | If you can afford the test fee during college. | If you need time to save money for test fees and applications. |
4. Conclusion: What’s the Best Choice for You?
Take the GRE During College If:
- You are certain about attending graduate school.
- You want to complete the test while your academic skills are fresh.
- You can balance college studies with GRE preparation.
Take the GRE After Graduation If:
- You want to gain work experience before applying to grad school.
- You prefer dedicating focused time to GRE preparation.
- You are unsure about pursuing graduate school immediately.
Final Tip: If you’re undecided, take a GRE practice test during college to assess your readiness. Since GRE scores are valid for 5 years, taking it earlier can give you flexibility in planning your future studies.
Need expert guidance for GRE preparation? MKS Education offers personalized coaching, structured study plans, and full-length mock tests to help you achieve your target score. Contact us today!