[nabs-l] GRE

[Spangler, Robert]

Hello,

I would be applying for a Spanish graduate program.  It appears as though the GRE is just one extra component upon which the universities can evaluate one's ability to handle the rigors of graduate work.  As far as Spanish programs go, I have looked at several universities and one's here in Ohio (University of Toledo and Wright State, for instance) do not require the GRE whereas Ohio State University, University of Chicago, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison do.  Oh and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee does not and that university has sent students to PH.D. programs at larger institutions.  So the trend appears to show that the major, larger universities require it for their spanish programs and the smaller ones do not.  This is probably due to the better universities requirement to filter out due to great numbers of applicants.

Do PH.D. programs require GRE scores?  It is a possibility that I will want to get a PH.D. in the future so I should definitely make decisions now that will make that process more flexible when I get there.

Thanks,
Robby
--
Robert Spangler
The University of Toledo
Senior, Urban Studies and Spanish
robert.spangler at rockets.utoledo.edu


-----Original Message-----
From: nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Arielle Silverman
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 5:19 PM
To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list
Subject: Re: [nabs-l] GRE

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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