Graduate studies in astrophysics

[amalmirando]

Hi,
I'm really keen on pursuing higher studies in astrophysics in a US university. But currently in a confused state in selecting a suitable university that does not require GRE physics test to apply.
Some say i should write personally to professors of the desired field and if lucky i might get a scholl. is there any truth associated with it?

please help.

 

[phyzguy]

What's wrong with taking the GRE Physics test?

 

[amalmirando]

Most universities have their deadlines for fall in between december and february. In my country the next GRE physics test is in april. So itt would be late for me to apply if i take the test in april and would have to wait another year .

 

[phyzguy]

I see. Most of the best US universities do require the GRE subject test. I think your best option would be to go ahead and apply without it, but explain in your statement of purpose why you don't have it, and why you thinnk you can succeed in the studies. You could also write to professors at your targeted universities, as you suggested. This can't hurt and might help. Do you have any equivalent test from your country that you can offer as a substitute for the GRE? How will the schools that you are applying to be able to judge whether or not you can do the work?

It might be possible to get a school to admit you with the condition that you take the test next April and get a certain minimum score.

 

[amalmirando]

Do you have any equivalent test from your country that you can offer as a substitute for the GRE? How will the schools that you are applying to be able to judge whether or not you can do the work?

I have only done the general GRE test and taking TOEFL in january. other than that no equivalent test . but i have shown excellent performances in my studies and obtained a first class honours degree.

 

[phyzguy]

So my advice would be to go ahead and apply, explaining in your statement of purpose why you don't have the physics GRE, as well as writing to one or two professors from each university explaining how good you are and why you don't have the GRE. What have you got to lose? The worst case is that they say no and you take the GRE next year and re-apply a year later. If you can find some universities that don't need the physics GRE, you could apply there too as a back-up.

 

[amalmirando]

hey thanks a lot...