preliminary examination
Definition
Noun 1. A qualifying or screening test: A preliminary examination is a formal test taken by graduate students, typically early in their program, to assess their foundational knowledge and readiness to advance to further study or candidacy. 2. An initial assessment: It serves as an initial evaluation of a student's fitness to continue in a graduate degree program.
Usage
- The primary and most specific usage of "preliminary examination" is in the context of higher education, particularly graduate studies (e.g., Master's or Ph.D. programs).
- It is often a formal, written, and/or oral exam covering core subjects in the student's field.
- It is frequently abbreviated as "prelim" or "prelims" in informal academic contexts.
Examples
- Noun:
- All doctoral candidates must pass a preliminary examination before beginning their dissertation research.
- She spent the summer studying for her preliminary examinations in theoretical physics.
- Failing the prelim can result in a student being dismissed from the program.
Advanced Usage
- "To sit for one's prelims": To take the preliminary examinations.
- He will sit for his prelims next semester.
- "Prelim results": The outcomes or grades from the preliminary examination.
- Her prelim results were outstanding, so she could proceed immediately to her proposal.
Variants and Related Words
- Prelim (n., informal): A common shortened form of "preliminary examination."
- I have three prelims this week.
- Qualifying Exam/Examination (n.): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "preliminary examination" in graduate school contexts.
- Comprehensive Exam/Examination (n.): A similar type of exam, sometimes used synonymously, though it may occur at a different stage or have a broader scope.
Synonyms
- Qualifying exam: An exam that determines qualification to continue.
- Candidacy exam: An exam that, upon passing, grants formal candidacy for a degree.
- Screening exam: An exam that screens for basic competency.
Related Phrases
- Pass one's prelims: To successfully complete the preliminary examinations.
- He was relieved to pass his prelims on the first attempt.
- Prepare for prelims: To study for the preliminary examinations.
- The study group met daily to prepare for prelims.
Noun
-
an examination taken by graduate students to determine their fitness to continue
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