ABSOLUTELY.  There is no downside to taking it both years. Even if you do badly the first year, you now have the experience, which can help you prepare for the next year. If you don't you only get the one chance, and passing all four of the exams in one go is rare even for students who are above average.

It obviously depends on the student, but usually in the hundreds of hours total. You certainly should be thinking about the tests from the beginning of the Fall semester if not before.

Many people may have different opinions on this but here are some thoughts.

• Concentrate on passing your better subjects in the first year, though still take all the exams in case one is particularly  easy that year
• 500 level courses often are not as helpful preparation for the tests as 400 level and in fact 500 level courses can take much of the time that you might need to study
• Do not forget to look at past exams (see links to the left) or even exams from other schools (google search)
• Work lots of problems along with any reading you may do

The requirement is 5 semesters, and don't forget to register for the course number so that you get the credit for attending.

You need to remain a student until you successfully defend your thesis. To do this you must register each semester. Once you are done with courses, you should register for Ph.D. research with your advisor. If you have any questions about this see the graduate coordinator in the office or the graduate advisor faculty member.

Find yourself a substitute and email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to let the office know. If you don't know who could substitute ask in the office and they might be able to recommend someone.

The town halls are a chance to let the department and graduate (and even undergraduate) student learn from each other on different issues. Past items that have been discussed are, for example, experiences as a lab TA and courses that students wish could be offered et c.

If you plan on going on to graduate schools, you definitely should. While the requirement might be to take one or the other as an undergrad, most graduate schools will want you to have both of these. Not having both might severely limit the schools that will consider you application.