Catastrophe definition, a sudden and widespread disaster: the catastrophe of war. See more.
1 Total Time: The computer-delivered GRE takes 3 hours and 45 minutes for the average student.  Experts recommend sitting for the GRE exam one year prior to entering graduate school. This allows for ample study time and the option to retake it if desired.
Then work backwards from your earliest deadline. Build some extra time into your planning process for unexpected delays because you can only take the GRE test once per calendar month. Keep in mind that it can take as long as four weeks for your official scores to arrive at your designated schools. The GRE is offered at testing centers almost every day. Call your local center for details and to book your test. While in theory you could sign up for the GRE with only two days' notice, don't depend upon this luxury. Call at least one month prior to your desired test date.