Best Time to Start GRE, TOEFL & IELTS Preparation

The best time to start GRE prep depends on your target test date, current readiness, and whether you also need to prepare for the TOEFL or IELTS. For most students, starting 8-10 months before your intended semester gives you enough time to prepare, test, and retake if needed, while aligning with university deadlines.

Why Timing Matters for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS?

The best time to start GRE prep is directly linked to application timelines. Most US and European master’s programs have deadlines around 9-12 months before intake (for example, for Fall 2026, key deadlines are October 2025 to January 2026). You usually need your GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS scores ready before you submit applications, so you must try to plan backwards from your earliest deadlines.

Standard Timelines:

1. GRE: Often required for STEM, analytics, and many business master’s programs.
2. TOEFL/ IELTS: It is required if your undergraduate degree isn’t entirely in English or if the university mandates proof of English proficiency.

Read Also: GRE Syllabus

Best Time to Start GRE Prep (Primary Focus)

The best time to start GRE prep is around 6-9 months before your first application deadline, especially if you’re balancing college as well as a job.

Ideal GRE Preparation Window

1. Total prep duration: 3-5 months of consistent study (10-15 hours/ week).
2. Buffer for retakes: 1-2 extra months in case you want to improve your score.
3. Score reporting & logistics: 2-4 weeks for official scores to be processed and sent.

Working  backwards:

1. If your earliest deadline is December 2025, the best time to start GRE prep would be around April to June 2025.
2. Aim to take the GRE by August- September, leaving time for a retake if needed.

This timeline also lets you focus on applications (SOP, LORs, CV) later, without juggling everything at once.

When to Start TOEFL or IELTS Preparation

TOEFL and IELTS usually require less time than the GRE for most students, but they are essential, especially for international applicants.

Typical TOEFL/IELTS Prep Timeline

1. Preparation duration: 4-8 weeks (Focused practice on listening, reading, speaking, writing).
2. Test date: 1-2 months after you finish the GRE, or parallel if your schedule allows.

If you start GRE prep in April, a brilliant plan is:

1. GRE exam: August- September
2. TOEFL/ IELTS prep: September- October
3. TOEFL/  IELTS exam: October, well before December deadlines.

Read Also: TOEFL Syllabus

Class Year & Intakes: When YOU Should Start

You can refine the best time to start GRE prep based on your current situation.

If You’re in the 2nd Year of Undergraduate

1. Target intake: Typically 1.5- 2 years away.
2. Best move:
   1. Use this year to build foundations: math basics, reading habits & vocabulary.
   2. The best time to start GRE prep in full swing is the end of the 3rd year so that you can test early in your final year.

If You’re in the Final Year of your Undergraduate

1. Target intake: Usually the year after graduation.
2. Ideal plan:
   1. Start GRE preparation 8-10 months before the intake, or 6-8 months before deadlines.
   2. Example: In the final year, aiming for Fall 2027, start GRE prep by January-March 2026.

You’re a Working Professional

1. More time constraints, but better discipline.
2. The best time to start GRE prep is around 9-12 months before your target intake, so you can study on weekdays and also on weekends.
3. Consider a 4-6 month preparation and retake buffer, especially for math.

How to Structure a 4-5 Month GRE Timeline

Read Also: IELTS Syllabus

Coordinating GRE with TOEFL/ IELTS

To avoid burnout, consider GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS as one comprehensive plan rather than three separate ones.

Smart Order

1. GRE first: Builds quantitative as well as verbal stamina.
2. TOEFL/IELTS next: Try to improve reading as well as vocabulary, focusing on test formats as well as speaking/ writing practice.

Combined Study Tips

1. GRE verbal reading practice directly helps with TOEFL/IELTS reading and listening.
2. Argument/issue analysis for GRE writing helps with the TOEFL/IELTS writing task structure.
3. Try to allocate 1-2 hours/day for GRE and 2-3 hours/ week for light English practice, then switch to a heavier focus on TOEFL/IELTS.

How Much Daily Time Do You Need?

The best time to start GRE prep depends on how much you can study per day:

1. Students with 2-3 hours/ day: 3-4 months of prep time can be sufficient.
2. Full-time professionals with 1/1.5 hours/day: You may need 4-6 months.
3. Holiday/vacation prep (4-5 hours/day): 2-3 months may work if your basics are strong.

Recommended Start Times

You can use the following guide to decide the best time to start GRE prep plus TOEFL/IELTS:

Final Thoughts: Start Early: Not Perfect

The best time to start GRE prep is earlier than you think- but not so early that you would lose momentum. For most Indian and international students:

1. Start 6-9 months before deadlines
2. Allow yourself 3-5 months of preparation and a 1-2 month buffer.
3. Then schedule TOEFL/IELTS preparation immediately after the GRE.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to start GRE prep?

Start 6-9 months before deadlines for 3-5 months of preparation and a retake buffer.

How long does GRE preparation take?

3-5 months of consistent study (10-15 hours/week) yield strong score improvements.

Should I prep GRE before TOEFL/IELTS?

Yes—GRE verbal builds reading stamina that boosts English test performance later.

What’s a realistic GRE score timeline?

Baseline mock → 3 months study → test → 1 month retake buffer if needed.

Can I prepare GRE while in college?

Yes—start end of 3rd year for Fall intake after final year graduation.

How much daily GRE study is enough?

1.5-2 hours weekdays + 4 hours weekends works for working students/professionals.

What if I need to retake GRE?

Build 1-2 month buffer after first test; scores valid 5 years.

Is 2 months enough for GRE prep?

Possible for strong baselines; risky for beginners needing concept rebuilding.