Importance of GRE subject test

[perfecxion]

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I got my undergraduate degrees in political science and criminal justice in 2009, however i want to pursue a phd in neuroscience. I'm in the process of completing undergraduate course prerequisites so that i will be eligible for admission to the universities I'm interested in. I keep seeing schools say something like

"It is strongly recommended that a subject test also be taken because it is required for certain predoctoral fellowships"

Most schools seem to prefer the biology subject test, but I'm worried about attempting to take it since i have only taken 2 courses in biology (and that was 2 years ago). Does anyone know if failing to take the subject test will be counted against an applicant? Will it be counted against me if i do take the test and do poorly? Am i just going to have to study hard and try to self teach myself the material? I'm worried I'm going to study for months just to end up screwing the test and my chances of admission, when it wasn't even necessary for admission.

 

[CancerKiller007]

I do not think it is required for MD/PhD (at least for the most programs) but I think if you get like 12+ on Bio in MCAT, you should be fine.

If they specifically ask for subject exam, they you would need to take it and make sure you do well to erase any doubt they have about your candidacy.

 

[Neuronix]

I received a NINDS F30 predoctoral fellowship without the GRE. This is the most common funding mechanism for Neuroscience MD/PhDs. No GRE scores are required or even expected.

 

[Shifty B]

Yea, most people don't even take the GRE, let alone the GRE subject tests.

I'd skip it unless your favorite program says it is mandatory. Waste of time, waste of money.