Three Common Myths About Using GRE Scores
When
it comes to a truly holistic admissions process, the GRE General Test is a critical part of the equation.
Unfortunately, there are a number of misconceptions around the GRE General
Test, its purpose and how it is utilized in the holistic admissions process. As
you prepare for the upcoming admissions cycle, here are a few misconceptions
about what the GRE test can and
cannot offer programs looking to make the most informed admissions decisions
possible.
1. 1. Myth:The purpose of the GRE General Test
is to predict program completion.
Fact: Completion is more often determined by life circumstances — such
as having a child or changing jobs — and program dissatisfaction —
circumstances that no test of academic skills can predict. Instead, GRE scores
help to predict an applicants readiness for graduate-level work. When used as
part of a holistic admissions process, GRE scores can provide invaluable
insights into an applicants skills and abilities that show their potential for
success in graduate education.
2. 2. Myth: The admissions process will be
fairer without GRE scores.
Fact: When GRE scores
are removed from the admissions process, other information is weighted more. Research shows that the remaining information —- such as letters of
recommendation, essays and even GPAs — are more influenced by the socioeconomic
status of applicants than test scores are. The GRE General Test is the only
standard, research-based measure in the admissions process, removing it in
favor of information that is not standard, not research-based, and highly
influenced by applicants socioeconomic status, will create a process that is
actually less fair.
3. 3. Myth: Eliminating GRE score requirements
will increase program diversity.
Fact: There is no quick
fix to increasing program diversity. Achieving that
goal requires an intentional commitment that includes increasing faculty
diversity, student mentorship programs, inclusive environments and many other
activities. A holistic
admissions process embodies inclusivity and fairness by considering a wide
range of qualitative and quantitative metrics, including GRE scores, to ensure
that all students — including those from underserved backgrounds — have a
variety of opportunities to showcase their academic skills, personal attributes
and potential.
Learn more of the facts here: https://www.holisticadmissions.org/be-informed/
If you are interested in learning more,
contact Jay Kang (jkang@etsglobal.org),
Associate Director, Academic Relations, to schedule a virtual presentation on
The Challenges of Graduate Admissions and Research that Should Influence Your
Admission Process.
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