What Does 'Quals' Mean? A Look at Quals in the US

The term?quals? is fairly universal, at least in the academic and professional world in the US. So what, exactly, does that mean? And for both students and professionals alike, understanding the quals definition can be critical. Ordinarily, ‘quals’ is an abbreviation for qualifying exams. These are qualifying exams in which graduate students – generally those working toward a doctoral degree – must demonstrate that they have mastered core coursework before beginning work on their dissertations.

It may also be defined contextually for quis. In some programs, ‘quals’ consist of written and/or oral examinations; usually both must be passed although other requirements may exist. Passing quals is often part of the way to continue with a program, regardless.

Statistically, the experience of quals can come in two different methods (within America) as nature reacts differently depending on a university or state. Certain institutions may ask you to take one full exam or some that split quals into parts. Other important considerations include getting to know the quals definition at your specific institution so that preparation can be on target.

In short, quals is a rite of passage in graduate school in the US. Knowing what the local quals definition and process is — call them qualifying exams, prelims or something else — is crucial if you want to succeed in academia.