The specialized geology exam is fast becoming optional, many schools do not require it. One reason for this is that students must take the exam no later than December of their senior year for the scores to be sent to schools in time, yet many students won't have had one or more important courses before this. Thus, the geology exam scores are difficult to evaluate, however, a particularly high score in one or more of the three areas can help a great deal. Graduate schools select which students will be accepted, and which will be offered teaching assistantships or other funding opportunities, based upon three principal aspects of the application. These are GPA, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores.
Applicants also write a statement of intent or essay on why they want to attend graduate school.
A coherent and concisely written statement is more important than the reasons given. Letters of recommendation should be requested several weeks before the first due date. It helps your writers if you can provide them with an unofficial copy of your transcripts and a copy of your written statement along with all of the forms and a summary of the schools and their due dates. Include a resume if you have one. Most schools require three letters and these are generally selected from the geology professors you are most comfortable asking.