What to Do After You Take the GRE: A Step-by-Step Application Timeline

Finishing the GRE is a major milestone, but it’s only the beginning of your graduate school journey. After test day, you’ll need to interpret your GRE scores, send them to schools, gather transcripts, request letters of recommendation, and write your personal statement. This GRE application timeline outlines exactly what to do after the GRE, giving you a clear graduate school application checklist to stay organized and prepared throughout the GRE to graduate school process.

Step-by-Step GRE Application Timeline

Before you start your applications, it helps to know exactly what happens after test day. The steps below outline how to move from your GRE results to submitting strong, complete graduate school applications: 

Step 1: Understand Your GRE Scores

Once your test day is over, the first thing to do is review your GRE score report. You’ll see both your Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning section scores (each ranging from 130-170) and your Analytical Writing score (on a 0-6 scale). A quick look at your percentile ranking shows how your performance compares to other test takers–this is often what graduate programs consider most when reviewing applications.

When interpreting your results, keep these steps in mind:

• Compare your scores to program averages. Most schools list the average GRE score of accepted applicants on their websites. This helps you see where you stand.
• Decide if a retake makes sense. If your scores fall below the typical range for your target programs, or you believe you can improve with more prep, it may be worth retaking the GRE before application deadlines. 
• Focus on balance. Admissions committees often value consistent performance across all sections, rather than one standout score. 
• Review your writing score, too. A strong Analytical Writing score can support your statement of purpose and overall academic readiness. 

Step 2: Send Your GRE Scores to Schools 

After reviewing your results, the next step is to send your GRE scores to the graduate programs on your list. When you took the test, you had the option to send up to four free score reports–but if you didn’t choose schools on test day, you can still send them later through your ETS account for a small fee.

Here’s what to keep in mind as you send your official scores:

• Use ScoreSelect to your advantage. With the GRE ScoreSelect option, you can choose which set of scores to send if you’ve taken the test more than once. Schools will only see the results you select, giving you control over how you present your performance. 
• Confirm each program’s GRE score deadline. Every school has its own policy on when scores must arrive. Some need them by the application due date, while others accept them a few days later. Double-check these details so your application materials aren’t delayed. 
• Plan for processing time. ETS typically delivers official scores to schools within 5-10 business days after your request, but it’s best to build in extra time–especially if you’re applying to multiple graduate programs.
• Keep your records organized. Track which schools you’ve sent scores to and the dates you submitted requests. This helps you avoid duplicate reports or missed deadlines. 

Step 3: Gather Transcripts and Academic Records

Your graduate school transcripts are a key part of your application, showing programs your academic history and strengths. Request official transcripts early, since universities can take days, or even weeks, to process them during busy seasons. Check each school’s requirements to confirm whether they accept electronic transcripts or need sealed paper copies. If you attended multiple institutions, be sure to order transcripts from each one. Once your documents are sent, monitor your application portal to confirm they’ve been received, and keep an unofficial copy for your records. Staying proactive with your grad school application documents helps prevent last-minute delays and keeps your materials complete.

Step 4: Write Your Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

Your graduate school personal statement is your chance to show who you are beyond test scores and transcripts. This essay highlights your goals, motivations, and experiences in a way that helps admissions committees understand your potential as a graduate student.

Start drafting early so you have time to refine your ideas and edit carefully. A strong statement should:

• Explain your motivation. Share what inspired you to pursue your field of study and how graduate school fits into your long-term goals.
• Highlight your strengths. Point to specific experiences such as research projects, internships, or academic challenges that demonstrate your skills and abilities.
• Show program fit. Reference aspects of each school that align with your interests, such as faculty, coursework, or research opportunities. 
• Be personal but professional. Authenticity matters, but maintain a polished tone that reflects your readiness for graduate-level work.

Once your first draft is complete, review it for clarity and structure, then ask a mentor or peer for feedback. A well-written statement of purpose helps your application stand out and provides valuable context for your recommenders when they write their letters. 

Step 5: Request Letters of Recommendation

Strong graduate school letters of recommendation can make a big difference in how admissions committees view your application. They offer a personal perspective on your skills, work ethic, and potential for success–things that test scores and transcripts can’t fully capture.

When planning your letter of recommendation timeline, start early. Most programs require two or three letters, and your recommenders will need time to write thoughtful, detailed feedback. 

To make the process easier for both you and your recommenders:

• Choose the right people. Select professors, mentors, or employers who know you well and can speak to your academic ability, leadership, or professional growth.
• Ask well in advance. Ideally, reach out at least four to six weeks before your application deadline to give them plenty of time.
• Provide context and materials. Share your resume, statement of purpose, and a summary of your goals so your recommenders can tailor these letters.
• Make deadlines clear. Send polite reminders and confirm submission details–especially if the school requires letters to be uploaded through an application portal.
• Express gratitude. A sincere thank-you note goes a long way and shows professionalism.

Step 6: Prepare Your Application Materials

With your GRE scores, transcripts, personal statement, and recommendations ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Your graduate school application materials show schools the full picture of your academic and professional background, so organization is key.

Most programs will ask for several standard documents. Before you start uploading files, go through this quick graduate school checklist to make sure nothing’s missing:

• Resume or CV: Updated your grad school resume with relevant academic achievements, research experience, internships, and leadership roles. Focus on what demonstrates your readiness for graduate-level study.
• Writing Samples: Some programs, especially in the humanities or social sciences, require examples of your previous work. Choose pieces that best represent your skills and areas of interest. 
• Portfolio or Creative Work (If Applicable): Art, architecture, and design programs often ask for digital or physical portfolios. Follow each school’s format and submission rules carefully. 
• Additional Documents: Certain programs may request a research proposal, test scores, or prerequisite verification. Review each application’s instructions so nothing is overlooked. 

Keep a folder (digital or physical) with final versions of all your grad school application materials. Double-check filenames, formatting, and word limits before submitting–small details can make a big difference in how polished your application appears.

Step 7: Submit and Track Your Applications

Once everything is ready, it’s time to submit your graduate school applications. Before hitting that final submit button, take a moment to review every section carefully–small mistakes or missing uploads can delay processing. Make sure all required documents are attached, essays are formatted correctly, and recommendations have been submitted. 

After you apply, stay organized by tracking each program’s status and grad school deadlines. Most schools use online portals where you can:

• Verify that your transcripts and test scores have been received.
• Check whether recommendation letters were submitted.
• Monitor the overall status of your application as it moves through review.

It’s also smart to create a personal spreadsheet or checklist to track your grad school applications. Include submission dates, login details, and upcoming decision timelines to avoid confusion–especially if you’re applying to multiple programs.

Finally, save confirmation emails and payment receipts from every submission. These serve as proof in case of technical issues or missing documents. Once your materials are in and your application is marked complete, take a breath–you’ve done the hard part, and now it’s time to wait for results. 

Step 8: Follow Up and Plan for What Comes Next

After you’ve submitted your applications, the waiting period begins, but that doesn’t mean you’re done just yet. Use this time to prepare for next steps like interviews, funding, and decisions so you’re ready when schools reach out. 

Here’s how to stay proactive after submission:

• Prepare for interviews. Not every program requires them, but if yours does, start your graduate school interview prep early. Review your personal statement, research the department, and practice answering questions about your academic background and goals.
• Explore financial aid and scholarships. Look into financial aid for grad school, including assistantships, fellowships, and external scholarships. Some funding opportunities have early deadlines–apply as soon as possible.
• Track decision timelines. Each program has its own grad school decision timeline, often listed in your application portal or confirmation email. Knowing when to expect updates can help reduce stress and plan your next move. 
• Plan for logistics. Once acceptances start arriving, consider housing, relocation, or deferral policies so you’re not scrambling later. 

This stage is all about preparation and patience. By using the waiting period wisely, you’ll be ready to make informed decisions–financially, academically, and personally–when the admission results arrive. 

Stay on Track with Kaplan GRE Courses and Resources

Preparing for graduate school starts with a strong GRE score–and Kaplan offers the tools and expert guidance to help you get there. Whether you prefer structured classes, self-paced study, or personalized tutoring, you’ll find flexible prep options that fit your goals and schedule. 

With Kaplan, you can:

• Take free GRE practice tests. Experience the real exam format and get a detailed performance breakdown with the free GRE practice test.
• Build your skills with expert-led prep. Choose from a range of Kaplan GRE courses for personalized, high-impact study options. 
• Join free GRE events. Learn test-day strategies and get study tips directly from instructors through Kaplan’s free GRE events.
• Access additional tools and resources. From prep books and question banks, Kaplan provides everything you need to prepare for the GRE and beyond.