GRE Scores for Science Programs

Are you planning a career in the sciences and aiming for a Master’s or PhD? If so, you’re likely wondering how much the GRE matters on your path to your dream school. Do GRE scores for science programs really make a difference? Let’s dive into the details to help you understand.

Making Sense of GRE Scores for Science Programs Requirements

First, there’s no simple answer—it varies by field, school, and even the year you apply. For example, Chemistry programs have mostly moved away from requiring the GRE, with some not accepting scores at all. However, fields like Biological Sciences, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics have different GRE requirements. Let’s explore these differences!

Navigating department websites can be confusing since schools discuss the GRE in different ways. Even within the same department, programs or tracks might have unique requirements. Therefore, you must research each school you’re considering before deciding whether to take the GRE. Here’s how you might encounter GRE requirements:

• Chemistry programs may have dropped the GRE altogether.
• Computer Science programs might expect strong Quant scores.
• Physics and Mathematics may have more rigorous GRE expectations.

By understanding these nuances, you can tailor your approach to match the specific requirements of your desired programs. Remember, research is key to making informed decisions about the GRE and your application process.

GRE Required

This means the GRE is a must for the program’s application. For example, Stanford’s PhD program in Statistics looks for high percentiles in Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing sections. Similarly, Georgia Tech’s Computer Science PhD program expects Verbal percentiles above 80% and Quant percentiles above 90%. Generally, top programs (ranked 1-25) prefer a Quant score above the 85th percentile.

GRE Optional

The GRE is optional, which can be tricky. How do you decide if you should take it? We’ll cover strategies for this later, but be sure to note which programs list the GRE as optional. Sometimes, programs will say “not required” instead of optional. If a program will review your scores, they’ll usually make it clear. If you’re unsure, reach out to the program for clarification. You don’t want to miss an opportunity to submit a strong GRE score just because you weren’t sure if they’d consider it.

GRE Not Accepted

Some schools won’t consider GRE scores at all. If your target schools don’t accept the GRE, you can confidently skip the exam. However, if your list includes a mix of programs, you’ll need to decide whether to take the test.

GRE Subject Test Required/Optional

Some programs look for a field-specific GRE subject test, either alongside the General Exam or independently. Check each program to see if this is required or if it could boost your application.

By understanding these requirements, you can better navigate the GRE landscape and make informed decisions for your application strategy.

Why Don’t All Programs Accept the GRE and Could They Start Again?

Schools and programs have different reasons for accepting or not accepting the GRE. For example, fields like Chemistry began moving away from the GRE around 2018 to make more holistic decisions about applicants and because of doubts about the test’s ability to predict graduate-level success. Other programs dropped the test during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure equal access for all applicants.

Will programs continue to avoid the GRE? It’s hard to say, but some signs suggest that more programs might start requiring it again. This shift could be due to several factors. For instance, the Supreme Court’s decision on race-conscious admissions programs may lead to a renewed focus on test scores. Additionally, schools that moved away from the GRE are now studying the impact of that decision on admissions and student performance. If these studies show better performance when the GRE was used, we may see a return to requiring it.

For now, as an applicant, the most important thing is to stay updated on 2024 application requirements. We might see changes as early as this summer, so carefully read the requirements when applications open.

How to Decide If You Need to Take the GRE

Start by making a list of all the schools you’re interested in and willing to attend. Carefully review the test requirements for each. If they all require the GRE or none do, your path is clear. However, if some require it, some don’t, and others make it optional, deciding becomes trickier. Here’s a look at some top programs and their GRE requirements:

Begin by ranking your target schools. For example, if you have 10 programs and only two require the GRE, you might consider skipping the test and not applying to those schools. This can be a valid decision, but weigh how much those schools appeal to you. Remember, taking the GRE is a stepping stone toward your ultimate goals—a spot in a great graduate program and a successful career in your chosen field. If everything else about the school fits, it might be a mistake to drop it from your list just because of the GRE requirement.

Here’s a helpful exercise: imagine yourself at the end of the application cycle, looking at your acceptance letters. Would you feel disappointed if you couldn’t attend the school you left off? Would not having it as an option feel like a regret? The GRE might be worth it if it leads to more and better opportunities.

Now, consider what to do if four out of your 10 programs are GRE-optional. This decision is trickier. Evaluate the rest of your application. Would a strong GRE score boost your profile? If you have weaknesses in your GPA or a lack of science/math classes, a high Quant score can help. Most science programs focus on your Quant score, but top schools often look for scores above the 80th percentile in all sections.

Takeaways

It’s important that you research each school you are interested in carefully. You’ll need to know what their policy towards the GRE is and how it fits into your application strategy. Remember that most programs don’t open their applications until late summer or early fall, so information that you see in June may not be the same as what you see in August. Do your research early, reach out to schools if there’s any uncertainty about requirements, and make a plan to check back in later in the summer.

If you are applying to programs that require the GRE or have it as an option, getting a strong score can help you stand out in competitive fields. A Magoosh Premium Plan can help you achieve the type of strong scores that you’ll need. Start studying today!