Getting into Top PhD programme with average GRE

[Goingfluid]

Hi All!

I am Ershad and I am currently pursuing masters in Mechanical Engg (Fluid Mechanics) at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). I am in the first yr of the masters. I am hoping to apply to some PhD programs for fall 2012. I took the GRE twice last year and my scores were 1210 (V490 Q720) and 1240 (V590 Q650). My TOEFL score was 106. My scores would be still valid next year when I apply. I have a good undergraduate grade and I doing good in my masters now. However, I am worried if my average GRE scores is going to put me in a disadvantage when applying to Top universities. I am doing good research right now and I will have couple of publications soon. I want to know how important is GRE score for top universities. I read some articles (http://www.stanford.edu/~pgbovine/grad-school-app-tips.htm) where they mention that research is the only factor for PhD admission than GRE or grades in top universities. Is it true? Please advice. Thanks in advance.

[eklavya]

Let me correct you by saying that research is NOT the only factor for PhD admission. Although, it is probably the most important factor. How strongly you word your SoP and how strong your LoRs are also very important. Needless to say, your GPA is very important as well. GRE, while not so important for science programs, still accounts for something. So in general, every aspect of your application is evaluated.

In your case, your Q score is definitely low. Anything under 750 for engineering students might not leave a good impression. Do not worry about V score, especially if you are an international student. Adcomms know that english isn't your first language; and they also know that the GRE english is not the type of english you will be practicing throughout your PhD program (and later in your pro life).

I applied to top programs in my field (5 of 7 schools I have applied to are ranked within the top 6) with 430V & 780Q (int'l student with BS and MS degrees from the US), and I already have offers from two top schools. While this doesn't mean you should consider yourself as a guaranteed admit in your programs, it nonetheless should give you the picture. I personally think that my research credentials (amazing internships, conferences, papers, etc), LoRs from very renowned scientists and my SoP helped me get in.

Hope this helps a little. Good luck!

[Goingfluid]

Thanks for replying, Bhikaari (I hate calling you that:P). Now my fears are the following and I want your suggestions.

1. I am busy with my research and studies. So I don't have time to prepare for GRE.

2. I have good GPA and also there are few recognized people in my field who will recommend me.

3. The pattern of GRE is going to change from August 2011.

So do you really think I have take the GRE again instead of doing research? Can I probably do one more year as a research assistant? Will that be a substitute for a low GRE score? And I don't really know how the new pattern of GRE is going to be.

[eklavya]

So do you really think I have take the GRE again instead of doing research? Can I probably do one more year as a research assistant? Will that be a substitute for a low GRE score? And I don't really know how the new pattern of GRE is going to be.

If you have time, take the GRE to get a higher Q score. If you don't, then perhaps you can rely on your research strength. But nothing is given and guaranteed. So, you never know what might happen. But because you are applying next year, I think investing some time for GRE is something not entirely impossible... you know, may be few hours each week till you feel you are ready.

And no, continue your research. Research is going to be your biggest asset whether you apply for PhD or not.

[Goingfluid]

If you have time, take the GRE to get a higher Q score. If you don't, then perhaps you can rely on your research strength. But nothing is given and guaranteed. So, you never know what might happen. But because you are applying next year, I think investing some time for GRE is something not entirely impossible... you know, may be few hours each week till you feel you are ready.

And no, continue your research. Research is going to be your biggest asset whether you apply for PhD or not.

Thanks for the suggestions! I'll think about it. I am glad I have enough time.

[beanbagchairs]

You still have a lot of time to prep yourself for GRE .. I'd say get an amazing research done whilst studying for GRE. Once you have defended your thesis, go take the GRE...

Anyhoo.. I graduated from TUDelft too!

[Goingfluid]

Thanks for the advice, shashakoe! Sounds great.All the best with your applications.