Does the regular GRE matter for physics?

[dipole]

I plan to begin studying for the physics GRE no later than the beginning of August, but I hardly have any plans on studying for the regular GRE. After three years of physics I really can't imagine memorizing history dates and whatever other crap is on the regular GRE.

Do grad schools really look at your regular GRE scores and use them to reject people?

 

[leright]

I plan to begin studying for the physics GRE no later than the beginning of August, but I hardly have any plans on studying for the regular GRE. After three years of physics I really can't imagine memorizing history dates and whatever other crap is on the regular GRE.

Do grad schools really look at your regular GRE scores and use them to reject people?

Good gre scores won't get you in but bad ones will keep you out of grad school. Also, the gre doesn't test you on historical dates.

 

[Jorriss]

Don't completely bomb it.

 

[denjay]

Let's say you get in the 90th percentile on the Physics GRE but the 50th on the regular GRE. You apply to X grad school. Another person who also is in the 90th percentile in Physics but is in the 60th percentile on the regular GRE also applies to X grad school.

Who does the grad school choose?

Obviously there are other factors but getting a low score on something that they actually look at isn't usually a good idea.

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the concerns about the regular GRE and its relevance to physics. However, I want to assure you that while the regular GRE may be required for some graduate programs, it is not the sole determining factor for admission into a physics program.

Graduate schools typically look at a combination of factors, including coursework, research experience, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. While the regular GRE may be considered, it is not the most important aspect for physics programs. Your performance in physics coursework and your potential for success in a physics graduate program are much more important.

That being said, it is still important to prepare for the regular GRE to the best of your ability. While the content may not directly relate to physics, the test is designed to assess critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in physics. Therefore, taking the time to study and perform well on the regular GRE can demonstrate your overall academic abilities and dedication to your field.

In summary, while the regular GRE may not be the most important factor for physics graduate admissions, it is still worth putting effort into studying and performing well on the exam. Your coursework, research experience, and passion for physics will ultimately be the key factors in your admission to a graduate program.