A few days ago
hplss.rmntc

What do PhD programs look for in their applicants?

I am currently in a Master’s program in Psychology. I want to apply to PhD programs next year. What do PhD programs look for in an applicant besides good grades and GRE scores?

Top 4 Answers
A few days ago
Dr. Evol

Favorite Answer

It depends on the type of psych program you’re looking into. If you’re hoping to practice clinical psychology, then they’ll be looking for evidence in your application that you’re good for this. Letters of recommendation are critical here, of course, as they’ll reflect both personal and professional qualities needed for such a career. You’ll also need to exhibit the appropriate level of professionalism in everything you do (essays should be succinct and grammatically correct, etc.).

If you’re looking for research oriented PhD programs, then research experience is a must. The GRE will show them if you have the reasoning skills (more or less), but you need to show them that you know enough about the research game to become a researcher. You’d need to spend some serious time in a research environment to be considered for this type of program.

You shouldn’t hesitate to ask the profs in your master’s program for advice about this and your goals generally. They’ll likely be happy to help you. Good luck!

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A few days ago
Thomas M
Good grades and GREs are far more important for grad school than good grades and SATs are for college. The only other things that are seriously considered is research experience and letters of reference. You will be evaluated almost solely based on academic merit.
1

A few days ago
Loli M
For most psych PhD programs they look at your GPA, don’t want any slackers. They will go over your letters of reference but they don’t carry as much weight as your academic career.
1

4 years ago
Anonymous
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