Hi everyone,

I’m aiming for the 2027 application cycle and could really use some advice on test timing. I’ve been feeling incredibly burned out and spiraling a bit, so any perspective would be massively appreciated.

My Background:

• Target cycle: Fall 2027

• Current Level: High 150s (Started studying in February).

• Goal Score: Low 170s.

• Personal: I work full-time and I am an ESL speaker.

• GPA: I have a very low undergrad GPA, but a high Master's GPA. Since I know only the undergrad GPA counts for medians, I know I absolutely need a 170+ to make up for it as a splitter.

My Dilemma:

I am currently registered for June, but I realistically don't think I'll be ready to hit my 170+ goal by then, especially with my full-time job and ESL hurdles. I haven't even touched the writing section yet.

My Questions:

1. If I push my first real take to August, is that too late for an "early" cycle application? I really want to apply early to maximize my chances as a splitter, but I want to make sure an August (or even September) test won't put me at a disadvantage.

2. If I take June just to see how it goes and cancel a bad score, does the "C" on my transcript look bad? Will admissions care that I have an attended test with no score?

Thank you so much in advance. Trying to balance all of this is exhausting, and I just want to make sure I'm making the right strategic choices!