Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the interpretation of average general GRE scores for admitted students at Stanford, specifically focusing on the scoring scale and its implications for prospective applicants. Participants explore the relevance of these scores in the context of graduate school admissions in physics.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- One participant cites Stanford's reported average GRE scores, questioning how to interpret these scores given the common understanding of the GRE scoring scale.
- Another participant notes that a GRE score of 170 corresponds to high percentiles, suggesting that higher scores indicate even higher percentiles.
- A participant questions whether the general GRE has always been scored out of 170, indicating uncertainty about changes in the scoring system over time.
- Another participant asserts that the reported scores may contain a typo, emphasizing that the maximum score is 170 and referencing the revised scoring system.
- Some participants express the view that general GRE scores are not a significant factor in physics graduate school admissions, provided that applicants achieve mid-160s scores in math.
- A participant shares their confidence in their GRE performance, indicating that they can focus on other aspects of their application.
- Another participant agrees, suggesting that attention should shift to preparing for the Physics GRE and other application components.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express disagreement regarding the interpretation of the GRE scores and the relevance of general GRE scores in admissions. Some believe there may be a typo in the reported scores, while others discuss the importance of focusing on other application elements.
Contextual Notes
There is uncertainty regarding the historical scoring of the GRE and whether the reported scores accurately reflect the current scoring system. Additionally, the discussion highlights differing opinions on the importance of general GRE scores in the context of physics graduate school admissions.
Who May Find This Useful
Prospective graduate students in physics, educators involved in graduate admissions, and individuals interested in understanding the role of GRE scores in academic applications may find this discussion relevant.