[nabs-l] GRE

[Arielle Silverman]

Hi Robby,
What kind of graduate program are you applying for? I'm sure it
depends on the type of program whether or not you should have GRE
scores. This might be a good question to ask your major advisor, if
you have one. However, taking the GRE's certainly gives you a lot more
flexibility about where you can apply, so I'd recommend it.
I would not advise asking if you can submit something else instead of
the GRE. Many graduate programs, especially Ph.D. programs, are very
competitive. While they might allow you to submit something else, not
having GRE scores like all the other applicants is unlikely to help
you get a competitive edge. I think it's important to demonstrate to
graduate departments that you are capable of taking the required
standardized tests and, hopefully, getting a strong and competitive
score.
Fortunately there are several accommodations available to blind
test-takers. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) allows blind
test-takers to take the paper version of the GRE in Braille or large
print. Alternatively, you can take the computer version of the GRE
either with a reader/scribe or using the new self-voicing test. I have
not used it myself (I took the GRE in Braille in 2007, before it
existed) but I believe that it allows the blind test-taker to take the
test on the computer using keystrokes similar to JAWS commands. I
would be interested to hear from others here about the quality of the
self-voicing option.
You will need to apply for accommodations at least two months before
you plan to take the test. I would suggest setting up a phone
consultation with Ruth Loew or Nora Hallenbeck at ETS to get an
overview of the process and what paperwork needs to be submitted. I
have had very good interactions with both Ruth and Nora and Ruth has
been on this list and speaks regularly at NABS meetings. From what I
remember, there was one form I filled out where I listed the
accommodations I needed, and it was signed by the DSS official at my
university.
ETS also has GRE prep materials in Braille, and possibly other formats.
Best of luck,
Arielle

On 12/21/11, Spangler, Robert <Robert.Spangler at rockets.utoledo.edu> wrote:
> Hello all,
>
> I am thinking of applying for graduate school when I return from my trip in
> Spain next year.  Many graduate programs do not require GRE scores but it
> seems as though the better ones do.  First, what are your opinions; is a
> program generally of higher quality if it requires GRE scores?  I have
> actually seen several programs that look pretty good that do not require GRE
> scores.  I have also noticed that some of the best schools in the country,
> such as OSU and UW require GRE scores.
>
> Next, what are your experiences as blind people taking the GRE?  IT appears
> as though, if one requires special accommodations, they are unable to
> register for the test online.  Also, the GRE is computer-based; would we
> take that version or a modified version of the paper copy?  In the bulletin,
> it recommends first that I ask the prospective institution if I can submit
> something else in place of GRE scores; what are opinions on this?
>
> Thanks,
> Robby
> --
> Robert Spangler
> The University of Toledo
> Senior, Urban Studies and Spanish
> robert.spangler at rockets.utoledo.edu
>
>
>
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