uromastyx

Depends on form of notification. They might still come, but not likely.

Agreed, this varies dramatically. Keep in mind, this would also differ with programs that waitlist.

My advice for thesis writing (if it's your first time writing a major paper) is to simply write. Then revise, revise, revise. Everyone's first draft is crap. Fact. Best of luck to you!

No idea about discipline. But do you have time to retake the GRE?

It certainly won't look good if you accept, show up, and say "Actually, I wanted to be in Program X." But how you handle the matter is entirey up to you. I'd think you'd weigh things like, whether you want to be at that Uni, whether you have other/better offers, whether you feel changing would create problems, etc. I would also assume the program that you wanted is already full.

The GRE is often the crux of this matter. May I say: the only thing worse than "My GRE scores are V145 & Q147. What are my chances at Stanford?" is "I got V170 & Q168. Should I retake??"

Yikes.

And thus many great PhD candidates at good (and not great) schools are able to really shine in their department.

Honestly, excellent advice here. I would add: Roundhouse kick to the face.

First, I believe the classroom is a political space. However, dissenting from a lead professor (or the field/academia in general) can put you in dangerous waters. Tread carefully.

It truly depends on the demands of the course (i.e. grading load), your abilities in planning (or wingning it), and how dedicated you are to coursework or professional development (pubs, conferences, etc).

i ditto what these pepes be saying.

3.5 is typically satisfactory, while 3.75 is the preferred number.

An excellent program!

Of course not. But I feel that the landscape is changing and this is becoming increasingly more common. I applied with multiple publications: a book chapter, articles, reviews, a professional blog. Yet, I agree completely that publishing junk for the sake of publishing could backfire. Many departments in literary fields are encouraging their students to graduate with at least one publication, so you have plenty of time before it's a concern.

turn back. turn back now.

Your GPA is a bit on the low side. Your GRE scores are very low. Do you have work/research experience? Publications? Etc?

grad school is my Plan B

What do you mean by "260"? On the old scale? GRE scores are only a part, but they are very important to your application.

I'd show up at their homes, ski mask on, demanding answers. But seriously, always consider sitting on it for a bit.

Seriously?

Your portfolio is crucial. But your numbers will reflect your work ethic and professionalism.

I think two is a good number, even for programs that ask for one. Yet, they should be notably different. For example, one on syntax and another on phonology. However, if MIT allows three writing samples then I would strongly consider submitting three, but only if they are all strong.

Absolutely!! But only if they are all strong! I would also recommend additional letters that speak to your varying strenghts. You don't want letters that all say the same thing. I suggest 3 letters from profs you've had at least one course with and can speak to your academic abilities. AT LEAST 2 of these NEED to be in your proposed field. The other two should speak to some other aspect. Ask them to emphasize research or teaching that they are familiar with. Perhaps a strong professional letter. As long as they are solid letters. Many people have a hard time finding 3 LORs, let alone 3 strong ones. Just the fact that you acquired 5 strong letters will speak volumes.