The #GRE is already better at measuring barriers to access than actual student ability, but with COVID-19, graduate programs should absolutely make it an optional part of the application. A thread. 1/??? #AcademicChatter #phdchat

GRE testing is remote through June 30th. This option simply isn’t viable for many applicants, including myself.

“Well applicants should wait until in-person testing is offered again!” 2/??

First, we cannot count on GRE testing in person again by the end of 2020.

Second, even if in-person testing opens again before application season is over, many students don’t have much control over when they can take the exam. 3/??

Maybe they would *have* to take it during that remote testing period, for whatever reason.

Now, let’s take a look at what remote testing actually requires: (4/??)

The first and probably most obvious thing: a laptop or desktop with a stable WiFi connection. Personally, my WiFi connection is horrible and I have to use my phone’s hotspot for stable internet connection. I can’t have my phone out during testing, so I’m already excluded. 5/??

Next, computer/technology requirements: Windows (7, 8, or 10) is the required OS system. Mac users can download Windows, but this costs money and is very inconvenient.

Ppl with chromebooks (an inexpensive computer option for many students) are immediately excluded. 6/??

A webcam & microphone are also required. Most laptops have a webcam/mic built in, but this would be a barrier for many desktop users.

Next, the environment/testing room requirements: (7/??)

Privacy. You must be completely alone for the duration of the test.

Many, if not most, people live with others. Personally, I could easily ask my roommate for 5 hours of privacy, but not everyone can.

What about someone who shares a studio apartment with 4 people? (8/??)

A person with kids, especially if they’re a single parent, would have an even harder time maintaining 5 hrs of privacy. Here, access to childcare becomes another barrier for remote GRE testing (tho it’s also a barrier for in-person as well) 9/???

Your computer/keyboard must be on a desk or tabletop surface. And you must sit in a “standard” chair, not a bed, couch, or “overstuffed” chair.

Many test takers would need to purchase furniture to meet the testing requirements. 10/???

Lastly, test takers can only use a white board with an erasable marker to take notes.

Let’s recap on those things someone may need to purchase for the remote GRE, in addition to the actual test and prep materials: 11/??

- stable WiFi
- a new OS (Mac) or a new computer altogether (Chromebook)
- webcam/mic
- a living space that offers privacy
- a babysitter
- a desk
- a chair
- a whiteboard

Now for the actual testing *experience*: (12/??)

I’m sure I speak for a lot of people when I say that my home environment, irrespective of the actual testing requirements, is not conducive to taking a 5 hour long standardized tests. I have a young, clingy cat. My neighbors are loud. I get distracted easily. 13/???

Simply put, my apartment is not a testing center, and it is not a space I associate with taking life-altering exams. It’s the place where I eat, sleep, do homework, watch TV, laugh, cry. But not taking (again, life-altering) tests. 14/??

Anyway. Yeah. That’s pretty much the thread. Stay safe and stay inside everyone!!!! 15/15