Do I have a high enough PGRE score for the best US universities?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the adequacy of a PGRE score of 900 for admission into top US Physics PhD programs, specifically at institutions like MIT and Caltech. A score of 900 places a student in the 92nd percentile, indicating that approximately 400 candidates achieve this score annually. However, the conversation emphasizes that admissions decisions are not solely based on test scores; applicants must demonstrate broader scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills. The consensus is that while a 900 is competitive, it is essential to consider the overall application context and the limited number of spots available at elite universities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Physics Graduate Record Examination (PGRE) scoring system
  • Familiarity with the admissions processes of US graduate programs
  • Knowledge of the competitive landscape for Physics PhD programs
  • Basic principles of scientific reasoning and problem-solving
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the admissions criteria for Physics PhD programs at MIT and Caltech
  • Explore strategies for enhancing graduate school applications beyond test scores
  • Investigate the significance of research experience in graduate admissions
  • Learn about the role of recommendation letters in the application process
USEFUL FOR

International students applying for Physics PhD programs, academic advisors, and anyone involved in graduate admissions processes seeking insights into the importance of PGRE scores and overall application strength.

hm0123
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Hello, I am an international student who are going to apply for Physics PhD program at universities in the US. My research field is theoretical Physics, and my PGRE score is 900. Is it enough for top universities such as MIT, or Caltech? Or is it better not to report the score to the universities when I apply? Please help me.
 
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The US is not India. There is no make-or-break test score.

There are many, many threads here explaining how US admissions work. Read them.

A decent scientist should have been able to answer this question. Google will tell you 5000-6000 people will take the PGRE per year. Google will also tell you a 900 is the 92nd percentile. So ~400 people do that well or better.

How many grad students do MIT and Caltech admit? How does 400 compare to that number?

This I think is the bigger problem - perhaps you are good at solving textbook problems, but you should have been able to handle a scientific question like your on your own. US grad schools - not just MIT - expect this.
 

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