Doctorate Degree...when to start studying/taking the GREs?

Question

I'm only in the first semester of my Master's Program, but I'm pretty sure I want to go on to get a Doctorates. When do you recommend beginning to study for & when to take the GREs? Is it too early to begin now?

Also, what else do Doctorate programs look for besides grades & GRE scores? For my masters program, I have to do clinical practicum, so it's hard for me to have much time left for volunteer activities. Any other ideas?

Answer 1

Didn't you already take the GREs in order to gain admission to your Master's program? No need to take them again, unless you did poorly, and you want to improve.

Here's what PhD admission committees look for:
- high GRE scores
- high GPA
- competency in at least one or two relevant languages (usually French or German, and any languages particular to the student's area of study)
- a transcript reflecting strong preparation in the area of study
- superb letters of recommendation from faculty with national reputations who are very familiar with the student's work
- a literate personal statement that demonstrates familiarity with current theory, and a strong and well-articulated focus on one's specific area of study
- a writing sample that demonstrates strong research skills, writing ability, and facility in the use of theory, preferably focusing on the intended area of study (a chapter from the Master's thesis is often used)
- awards or honors for scholarship
- presentations at regional or national academic associations
- publications in a peer-reviewed journal (a grad student journal would be appropriate)

Volunteer activities? No one cares.

Answer 2

It depends on what subject your program is. My Ph.D. is in Atmospheric Science and the thing that was most important (besides grades) was who you worked for and what you did when you worked for them. Unlike undergrad, admissions are done within the department and your future advisor will want to know if your skills match what s/he is looking for in a new student researcher. Take a look at the schools to which you want to apply and in particular look at the professors there and what research they are doing. See if there is a match between that and what you want to do. If there is, try to do some research now that parallels what they do. I took the GREs in I think it was October, for application in December, and starting the program the following August. Extra-curricular stuff doesn't really matter. Grades and research are the most important, at least in the sciences.