What schools accept mid level Physics GRE scores?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the acceptance of mid-level Physics GRE scores by graduate schools, particularly in the context of applying for programs in quantum information experiments. Participants share their experiences, concerns, and insights regarding the admissions process and the weight of GRE scores compared to other application components.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern that a Physics GRE score in the 50th percentile may negatively impact their application despite having a strong academic record and research experience.
  • Another participant notes the unpredictability of admissions committees, suggesting that different aspects of an application may be prioritized differently.
  • A participant shares specific insights about the University of Arizona, indicating that past applicants with similar GRE scores were accepted, emphasizing the importance of undergraduate research experience.
  • Concerns are raised about the struggles of applicants with scores below the 50th percentile, particularly regarding comprehensive exams, while acknowledging that test-taking ability does not always correlate with research success.
  • A participant provides a non-exhaustive list of schools based on historical PGRE score statistics, suggesting potential options for applicants with mid-level scores.
  • One participant updates their score, indicating a 760 (67th percentile), and expresses optimism about their application prospects based on their overall profile.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that GRE scores are just one part of the application process and that other factors, such as research experience, can significantly influence admissions decisions. However, there is no consensus on the exact impact of mid-level scores on acceptance chances, and multiple views on the importance of GRE scores remain present.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying experiences and perspectives on the admissions process, highlighting the subjective nature of evaluations by different committees. There is also an acknowledgment of the limitations of relying solely on GRE scores without considering the broader context of an applicant's qualifications.

wotanub
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I'm applying to grad school this season. I've been preparing for the October PGRE for a few weeks non-stop and my scores are basically hitting a brick wall in the 50th percentile. I basically spend all my free time studying and I'm getting tired.

Know I've got a good shot at the top schools if I can get up to mid 70s (I have lots of research experience, 4.0GPA, good reccomenders, etc), but right now I feel like they'll look at my pgre score and throw my app in the trash. I guess my school's physics curriculum is sub standard.

What are some schools to look at that I can get into with ~50th percentile? I'm trying to go into quantum information experiment.
 
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It's impossible to guess what will be going through a particular admissions committee's mind. Sometimes they focus more on one aspect of a portfolio and sometimes another.
 
wotanub said:
I'm applying to grad school this season...in the 50th percentile.

I have lots of research experience, 4.0GPA, good reccomenders, etc)

There is A LOT of AMO going on here at U Arizona, and I know a few physics grads whose PGREs were ~50%. I know one professor's lab does some QI stuff (but you have have to research it further to see if it is what you are after). I believe that what is most important to our acceptance committee is usually having extensive undergrad research. And be prepared, if you interview/speak with an experimentalist prof as they will want to know about ALL the hands-on experimental research you have done (so organize your work ahead of time).
 
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Basically, the worry is that people below 50% often struggle with the comps, and there is very little chance of getting in if you are in the 20's. To be honest, I have seen monster test takers who were lousy physicists, and people who really struggled with test-taking who churned out 1st author paper after paper. So I really do agree with our department's perspective in evaluating each applicant's entire body of work (even though I myself am a monster test taker). Best of luck!
 
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Well I guess I'll post an update. I didn't do as bad as I thought I would. My official score is 760, 67%. Not the greatest, but I think I've got a shot with all other things considered judging from that interesting list in the post above this one.
 

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