What Will Poor Performance on the Chemistry GRE Mean for My Application?

[LogicX]

I haven't taken the chemistry GRE exam yet, and I certainty don't plan on doing poorly, but part of me wonders if I did do poorly how if would affect my applications. A majority of the places I am applying to do not require it (but "strongly recommend" it).

So if you get in the 50th percentile, would it be better to cut your losses and not report it? 60th? 70th?

My application is very strong, and this is the absolute last piece of it that could go wrong after managing to have strength in all the other pieces they look for. It would give me some peace of mind to know that even if something bad happens I may still be ok.

I know one friend of mine didn't even take it but still got into a top 15 program...

 

[R.Mesri]

It really depends on the specific program you are applying to. Some may not care about the Chemistry GRE at all and won't factor it into their decision making process, while others may take it into consideration. If a program does require the Chemistry GRE, then you should aim for a score of at least 70th percentile or higher if you want to be competitive. However, if the program does not require it, then you could still be competitive even with a lower score. Ultimately, it is best to research the specific program you are applying to and determine whether or not they require the Chemistry GRE and how much weight they give it in the admissions process.