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Can I get in anywhere?

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2007 12:51 pm
by DCB
Greetings all,

I'm looking for some opinions on my chances of getting into a PhD program.
I have a BA in physics from Rutgers with a 3.94 GPA.
I've also taken upper level undergrad/lower level grad classes, 1 in Quantum Mechanics (With an A) and one in classical mechanics (with an A).
Physics GRE 660 (50th %), Verbal 480 (54th %) Quantitative 780 (89th %).

I have absolutely no research experience (I was a double major, the other was in Econ), and could maybe get a couple recommendations just from professors I've taken classes with.

Any thoughts on if I have a chance and where I might have the best chance?

I believe temple accepts applications until july 15th. Any thoughts on temple and perhaps my chance of getting in there?

Any advice would be much appreciated.

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2007 1:59 pm
by Quaoar
You should definitely apply for Fall 2008; only a tiny minority of schools are accepting applications this late.

Also, I would take the Physics GRE again and try to get a better score. If you don't have any research experience, it is crucial to get at least 80th percentile to have a shot at any of the good schools.

Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2007 3:26 pm
by KDP
I second Quaoar. If I were you, i would apply next year after retaking GRE Physics. and meanwhile i would do some research (either at Rutgers or anywhere) and try to get a good recommendation letter from the advisor.
it seems like you have a competitive GPA (but i wouldnt know how rigorous your overall course selection was...)
i think you have a decent chance at good schools if you improve you GRE Physics score and get as much of research experience during the summer and next semester (and get a strong letter from the research advisor). good luck!

Posted: Tue May 29, 2007 10:59 am
by fizzics
You can definitely get into grad school with those numbers. The question is more which ones will take you. I wouldn't worry too much about your physics GRE unless you were aiming for top 20 schools. I have a friend who got into UCSD and he had the same GRE you had. However he also had a lot of research too.

A lot of schools post the middle 50% of their admissions. Look at those and see if you match up. I'm sure you'll find a school you like where you are competitive.