* GPA: Your undergraduate (and potentially graduate) GPA is crucial.
* Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters from professors or supervisors who can attest to your abilities and potential.
* Statement of Purpose/Personal Essay: This essay allows you to showcase your goals, research interests, and why you're a good fit for the program.
* Research Experience: Relevant research experience significantly boosts your application, especially for research-oriented programs.
* Work Experience: Depending on the program, relevant work experience can be a valuable asset.
* Transcripts: Official transcripts from all universities attended.
* English Proficiency Test Scores (if applicable): TOEFL or IELTS scores are often required for international students whose native language isn't English.
* Curriculum Vitae (CV): A summary of your education, experience, and accomplishments.
Essentially, the GRE is one piece of a much larger puzzle. A high GRE score can help you get noticed, but a weak application in other areas will likely result in rejection, even with a perfect GRE score. Conversely, a strong application with a slightly below-average GRE score might still be considered, especially if other aspects are outstanding.