GRE Math Sub for Physics PhD program

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the necessity of taking the GRE Math Subject Test for applicants to physics PhD programs, particularly for students with a dual major in physics and math who are more inclined towards theoretical physics. The scope includes considerations of admissions committee preferences and the potential impact of test scores on applications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether taking the GRE Math Subject Test would be beneficial in addition to the physics test.
  • Several participants suggest that the physics test is the more relevant choice for physics PhD applications.
  • Another participant notes the difficulty in predicting the admissions committee's preferences regarding test scores.
  • A participant expresses a personal opinion that they would not place significant weight on the Math Subject Test.
  • There is a reiteration of doubt about the utility of taking both tests.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the physics test is more relevant, but there is disagreement about the value of taking both the physics and math tests, with some expressing skepticism about the latter's utility.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects uncertainty regarding the admissions committee's criteria and the weight given to different standardized tests in the application process.

AlonsoMcLaren
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I am a rising junior in a US college and I plan to apply to a top physics PhD program. I am both a physics and a math major, and I am more interested in theoretic physics rather than experimental. So should I also take the GRE Math Subject Test?
 
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You should take the physics test.
 
Physics_UG said:
You should take the physics test.

I know. But will it do any good if I take both?
 
This falls into the category of "reading the minds of the admissions committee". Who knows what they will think?

I can tell you that I personally would not give this much weight.
 
AlonsoMcLaren said:
I know. But will it do any good if I take both?

No...
 

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