A- in Quantum 1 for GRAD school application.

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Achieving an A- (3.7 out of 4) in Quantum I using Griffith's textbook is not detrimental to graduate school applications, especially when the overall GPA is 3.78. Concerns about competitiveness with peers who received an A are unfounded, as admissions committees consider multiple factors beyond individual grades. Research experience, a strong statement of purpose (SOP), and solid recommendations significantly enhance application prospects. The discussion emphasizes that a single grade does not define one's chances for admission into a PhD program.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of graduate school application processes
  • Familiarity with the Physics GRE and its implications
  • Knowledge of crafting a strong statement of purpose (SOP)
  • Experience in conducting research in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research strategies for improving graduate school applications
  • Learn about effective statement of purpose writing techniques
  • Explore the importance of research experience in physics PhD applications
  • Investigate common misconceptions about grading in graduate admissions
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students in physics, academic advisors, and individuals preparing for the Physics GRE who seek to understand the nuances of graduate school admissions and the significance of academic performance.

xdrgnh
Messages
415
Reaction score
0
So I took quantum I using Griffith's and I only got an A- 3.7 out of 4. Will that look bad on my grad school application considering I'm competing with people who got A in quantum. I plan on getting into a PHD program and getting a Stipend. My overall GPA is like a 3.78.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Yeah, you should probably give up on life. Getting a A- is a terrible disaster!

\end sarcasm

It's not a big deal.
 
Seriously? I think you'll be okay :rolleyes:
 
I know it sounds silly but it's my first non A in a core required physics class.
 
I got an A+ in general relativity, my chances of grad school are ruined because I didn't get an A++ so I sympathize with you.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: 2 people
Even if it were a big deal (which it is not), there really is no point in worrying. You cannot change it.
 
I'd also advise you, that PhysicsGRE's profiles are often over-inflated since people with lower stats that are not applying to T1 schools are less likely to post.

You're certain fine, especially if you have research experience, a strong SOP, and recommendations.
 
First, the answer is "it's worse than an A and better than a B, and there is no way to read the minds of the committee - but we're talking about only 3% of the classes that you will have taken."

Second, this comes across less as asking for advice and more as bragging.
 
WannabeNewton said:
I got an A+ in general relativity, my chances of grad school are ruined because I didn't get an A++ so I sympathize with you.

At least neither of you got an A--.
 

Similar threads

Studying Any tips for getting GPA over 3.7 in grad school?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
Admissions Need advice for Low GPA / Good Research / HEPth PhD application
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
6K
Other How to Afford Moving to Another State For Grad School?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
Other Physics PhD after working for few years
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Is a Low CGPA a Deal Breaker for Grad School Admissions?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
5K
Admissions Curious about my grad school prospects
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Admissions Feedback for my grad school SOP for theoretical particle physics
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Admissions Grad School Admissions: Which do I Bother With?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Admissions Research experience for physics grad school application
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Admissions Dropped out for 5 years -- What are my chances at Grad schools?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K