Is a GRE Verbal Score of 155 Enough for Top Physics Graduate Programs?

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SUMMARY

A GRE verbal score of 155 is generally considered acceptable for admission into top physics graduate programs, such as those at MIT. The candidate possesses a strong quantitative GRE score of 168, a TOEFL score of 105, a perfect GPA of 5/5, and two publications in Physical Review D, which significantly bolster their application. However, concerns about English proficiency may pose a greater challenge than the GRE verbal score itself, as graduate courses will be conducted in English. It is advisable for the candidate to focus on improving their English skills rather than retaking the GRE.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GRE scoring and its impact on graduate admissions
  • Familiarity with TOEFL requirements for non-native English speakers
  • Knowledge of academic publishing, specifically in journals like Physical Review D
  • Insight into the importance of recommendation letters in graduate applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research strategies to improve English proficiency for academic settings
  • Explore resources for GRE preparation, focusing on verbal skills
  • Investigate the admissions criteria for physics graduate programs at MIT and similar institutions
  • Learn about the role of quantitative skills in physics graduate admissions
USEFUL FOR

Prospective physics graduate students, especially non-native English speakers, and academic advisors guiding applicants through the admissions process.

Roma93
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Hi guys,

I wonder if I could hope to be enrolled in a top university (like MIT) for physics graduate course with GRE verbal 155?

I have bachelor degree in physics and I am going to obtain master's degree in Spring. My GRE quant is 168, TOEFL 105, GPA 5/5, and I also have two publications in PRD and good recommendation letters, however, I am worried about verbal score.

Should I retake GRE? Please, I need your advice. The problem is that I'm not a native speaker, I'm quite good in physics, but I do not possesses a high-level English. Could they make an exception?

Thank you.
 
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The verbal GRE does not have a large weight at most physics departments. However, your problem is not the GRE score, it's that you "do not possesses a high-level English". Your courses will be in English, taught by professors who in many cases speak English as a second language themselves. If English is a problem now, it will be a bigger problem then.
 

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