A very common question asked is, "How do I makeup for low GPA/GRE/experience in my application? Is it even worth applying?" The answer is YES!
Just as in life, you need to focus on the good. If you have a low GPA, be sure to study hard for the GRE's, pick letter writers you know will write glowing recommendations, and shine a spotlight on any work/volunteer experience you might have. Often there is an explanation for the shortcoming and this can be touched on in the Personal Statement. But again, keep your explanation succinct and focus on how you overcame this obstacle. While there is no guarantee that this will gain you admissions it is a good tactic for focusing your application to give yourself the best chance possible.
Friday, August 26, 2011
MPH Concentration vs. Specialty
As you look over our various programs you may notice that there are concentrations and specialties. What is the difference? The quick answer is to think of your concentration like a major and the specialty like a minor. Your studies in your concentration will allow you to develop expertise in this area, and the specialty will provide focus on a secondary field within your concentration.
You'll notice that there are a couple areas listed in both the concentration and the specialty sections. This is to allow you the option to choose your expertise level given your interest in these areas. Should you have an interest in Public Health Nutrition but not want to focus exclusively on this area, you can add it as a specialty.
You'll notice that there are a couple areas listed in both the concentration and the specialty sections. This is to allow you the option to choose your expertise level given your interest in these areas. Should you have an interest in Public Health Nutrition but not want to focus exclusively on this area, you can add it as a specialty.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
GRE Scores: WHO, WHAT WHEN
A common theme among questions refers to GRE scores. So here is the Who, What, When of GRE scores.
Who needs to submit them?
In most instances, you will need to submit current GRE scores. Current means you took your GRE test from Jul. 1, 2006-Nov. 18, 2011. If you took your GRE's on December 31, 2005- they are not current. Those who do not need to submit the GRE's are- current medical or dental students (those applying to medical or dental school still need to submit the GRE), or applicants currently holding a doctoral degree from an institution in a country where English in the primary language (those who have not defended at the time of submission must submit the GRE).
What is the minimum score needed for admissions?
There is no minimum score. As a general rule, successful applicants have GRE scores above the 50th percentile for the verbal and quantitative sections. However, we acknowledge that some applicants have language barriers, test anxiety, and other justifications for lower scores. This is why we consider all aspects of the application. GRE scores are but one component of a student's application; they are not a determining factor for admissions in their own right. We employ a holistic approach in reviewing applications, and many factors come into play in making decisions.
When should I take the GRE's?
The sooner the better. This year, in particular, we expect some confusion due to the implementation of the new GRE test so please do not wait until the last minute. ETS has stated you can take the test up until November 18, 2011 and still receive your scores in time for a December 1st deadline. You should also note that along with the new GRE test there is going to be a blackout period in which ETS will not be reporting scores. For the reporting schedule click here.
***Update: Please note that I mention a December 1st deadline in the "When should I take the GRE's" section as this is a common deadline date and you might find this information generally helpful, however the deadline for UC Berkeley's School of Public Health is December 2nd.
***2nd Update: We have learned that ETS will be batch reporting their scores, so anyone taking their test between October 16, 2011 – November 18, 2011 will be reported on December 1, 2011. Our previously suggestion of giving yourself a buffer and taking the test by November 1st is no longer applicable.
Who needs to submit them?
In most instances, you will need to submit current GRE scores. Current means you took your GRE test from Jul. 1, 2006-Nov. 18, 2011. If you took your GRE's on December 31, 2005- they are not current. Those who do not need to submit the GRE's are- current medical or dental students (those applying to medical or dental school still need to submit the GRE), or applicants currently holding a doctoral degree from an institution in a country where English in the primary language (those who have not defended at the time of submission must submit the GRE).
What is the minimum score needed for admissions?
There is no minimum score. As a general rule, successful applicants have GRE scores above the 50th percentile for the verbal and quantitative sections. However, we acknowledge that some applicants have language barriers, test anxiety, and other justifications for lower scores. This is why we consider all aspects of the application. GRE scores are but one component of a student's application; they are not a determining factor for admissions in their own right. We employ a holistic approach in reviewing applications, and many factors come into play in making decisions.
When should I take the GRE's?
The sooner the better. This year, in particular, we expect some confusion due to the implementation of the new GRE test so please do not wait until the last minute. ETS has stated you can take the test up until November 18, 2011 and still receive your scores in time for a December 1st deadline. You should also note that along with the new GRE test there is going to be a blackout period in which ETS will not be reporting scores. For the reporting schedule click here.
***Update: Please note that I mention a December 1st deadline in the "When should I take the GRE's" section as this is a common deadline date and you might find this information generally helpful, however the deadline for UC Berkeley's School of Public Health is December 2nd.
***2nd Update: We have learned that ETS will be batch reporting their scores, so anyone taking their test between October 16, 2011 – November 18, 2011 will be reported on December 1, 2011. Our previously suggestion of giving yourself a buffer and taking the test by November 1st is no longer applicable.
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