Test Scores
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test required by many graduate schools as a condition for enrollment. The degree of significance placed on test scores tends to vary among individual schools, as well as how important scores are to the admissions process. In some graduate schools, GRE scores are merely a formality rather than a chief criterion evaluated for acceptance. The test is basically set up as a measure of an applicant's verbal, writing and quantitative skills. However, some schools only consider the scores earned on certain sections of the exam, particularly as it applies to their programs.
Measure of Ability
There are numerous resources available to aid applicants in preparing for the GRE exam, and may include courses, review books and computer software programs. The test itself is offered at a test center or university. Although the GREs are intended to be a presumption of a person's scholastic performance in graduate school, there is some question as to how well the tests can in fact predict one's academic success in a graduate program. The general GRE exam is designed to measure basic cognitive abilities, whereas subject tests measure one's knowledge in a particular area. These individual tests seem to estimate a student's success more accurately, yet are not always looked at closely by school officials reviewing graduate applications. Additionally, motivation is something that the tests cannot measure, yet it is a quality that is often a key factor for many students in completing a graduate program.
Other Standards
Although most graduate schools generally require GRE scores as part of the initial admissions application process, they are not the only standards involved in the decision whether or not to accept an applicant into a graduate program. Letters of recommendation from faculty at your undergraduate school can carry a lot of weight as well. In other words, former instructors are telling the admissions committee they have confidence that you have what it takes and, therefore, they support you in your goal to pursue a graduate degree. A strong undergraduate GPA (grade point average) may also help. The admissions essay is still another factor taken into account. You can reveal a lot about your character in how you write the essay, which gives you the opportunity to show how well you can address challenging issues, organize and present an argument, pay attention to details and demonstrate critical thinking skills. Commendable volunteer and work experience may help to compensate for low test scores, as a combination of all these factors usually go into determining whether a person is a likely candidate to be accepted into graduate school.
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