Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the significance of GRE scores for admission to top economics graduate programs. Participants explore the impact of quantitative and verbal scores, the importance of undergraduate coursework, and the possibility of retaking the GRE.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses concern that a GRE quantitative score below 800 may lead to automatic rejection from top programs, despite having a strong GPA in challenging math courses.
- Another participant suggests that retaking the GRE could be beneficial and questions the necessity of achieving an 800, while also inquiring about the economics GRE score.
- Some participants argue that a score of 750 in the quantitative section should not be viewed negatively, questioning the significance of the difference between 750 and 800.
- There is mention of the importance of the undergraduate institution attended, indicating that a high GPA from a less prestigious school may not carry as much weight.
- One participant notes that median GRE scores at decent economics graduate schools tend to be around 800 for the math section, while verbal and writing scores are less emphasized.
- Another participant shares findings from specific programs, indicating that some schools have median quantitative scores around 780, expressing hope that a lower score would not lead to outright rejection.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the weight of GRE scores versus other application components, and multiple competing views regarding the necessity of high scores and the implications of retaking the GRE remain present.
Contextual Notes
Participants express uncertainty about the exact criteria used by admissions committees, including the role of undergraduate coursework difficulty and institutional reputation in evaluating applications.