Grad School Applying: How Do Different Tier Schools Evaluate?

[Son of Ole]

I am a senior physics major and am looking at grad school. I was wondering if some of you could share your experience in getting into different 'tier' grad schools.

In my understanding, there are 4 things that grad schools could look at, given here in no particular order:
1. GRE scores
2. GPA / university coursework
3. Recommendation letters
4. Publications, presentations, summer/ thesis research, etc.

Have any of you found that different schools look at different things?
(e.g. U of ___ doesn't care about GRE very much, You probably need 2 publications to get into U of ___, top tiered schools require 2 excellent letters of recommendation, etc.)

I'm sure it varies by university, but have any of you found that different tiered universities look at applicants differently?

 

[fliptomato]

Hi Son of Ole,

I'm not sure if this is really a fair question. For any physics department, the grad admissions committee is just one of many departmental committees that faculty take turns sitting on. Each admissions committee, I imagine, looks at all of the data provided to it, but depending on the individual professors on the comittees the criteria may change from year to year. Further, many departments form sub-committees within different sub-fields such as particle physics, condensed matter, etc.

I can think of a few individual cases where I overheard a professor say that as long as one's physics GRE scores don't show a significant lack of understanding, he wouldn't factor it into his decision. But I suggest not dwelling too much on this since your goal is to present the best overall application that you can.

 

[piercas]

I can provide some insight into how different tier schools may evaluate applicants for graduate programs. Generally, all schools will consider a combination of the four factors mentioned: GRE scores, GPA, recommendation letters, and research experience. However, the weight placed on each factor may vary among different schools.

For example, top-tier schools may place a greater emphasis on research experience and publications, as they are looking for candidates who have a strong background and potential for future research. They may also have higher standards for GPA and GRE scores.

On the other hand, lower-tier schools may place more weight on GPA and GRE scores, as they may have a larger pool of applicants with similar research experience. They may also be more lenient with research experience, as they may be looking for students who can contribute to ongoing research projects rather than lead their own.

Additionally, some schools may have specific requirements or preferences for certain factors. For example, a school with a strong focus on research may require a certain number of publications for admission, while a school with a strong emphasis on coursework may prioritize high GPA and GRE scores.

Ultimately, it is important for applicants to research the specific requirements and preferences of the schools they are interested in and tailor their application accordingly. It is also important to keep in mind that while these factors are important, they are not the only determinants of admission. Many schools also consider an applicant's personal statement, extracurricular activities, and fit with the program and faculty.

I hope this helps provide some insight into how different tier schools may evaluate applicants for graduate programs. Best of luck with your applications!