Physics GRE Discussion Forums

Hello everyone,

This is my first post on physicsgre.com!

I cannot decide whether I want to apply to Stanford's Physics or Applied Physics program. Both departments are flexible and allow you to do research outside the dept (for example an Applied Physics student could do research with a Physics Prof and vice versa).

The Applied Physics program has more encouraging admissions statistics (40/180 accepted as opposed to 60/500 for Physics).

Does anybody know grad students/ professors in either of these departments? Do they differ in grad student camaraderie, etc?

I would appreciate any advice. Thank you.

Applied Physics students have no qual, and never have to TA. Physics may get slightly better financial compensation, but I am not sure. Other than that there are no differences in the two departments, in fact they are often treated as one department.

you want to apply to the one that fits best with your research interests; that will be your best chance of getting in.