<p>I am applying to Master's of Science programs hoping to do research in renewable energy. I am trying to decide whether or not I should retake the GRE. I received a 160 in quantitative (80%) and 161 in verbal (84%) which is at or above the target for most schools. The problem is that I received a 3.5 (38%) in the analytical writing section. The rest of my application should be strong as I have a solid GPA and undergraduate research experience. I am looking for information as to how much the analytical writing score can affect admissions and if I should consider retaking the GRE. </p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>This is the same question my son faced, in researching the answer, he decided that it depends on how competitive the programs you’re applying to are. Some top programs use GRE scores to weed out applicants and they state the lowest threshold for scores on their websites. They sometimes also say they’ll overlook lower scores if the rest of the application is really powerful (good LORs, research, internships, SOPs, etc.) People often say that the writing score is the least important score, and good V and Q scores will carry the day, but be sure to closely read the admissions requirements.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, it appears that there is no clear answer to your question. Consider the time and money you’ll spend to study and retake the test, is that time better spend contacting POIs and polishing SOPs? My son got really high V and Q scores but didn’t study for the writing and scored 2.5 (6%). I think in his case there is no question that he must retake. Your case is less clear because it’s so close to the 4.0 threshold that many programs state, and you may have great qualifications that can overcome the writing score.</p>
<p>The best advice will come from your professors, ask them, they are in a much better position to have real information. Good luck!</p>
<p>The problem I found is that a lot of science programs don’t list a hard cut-off for GRE AWA. (I was in a similar situation with high V/Q but 3.5 AWA but looking at PhD). What I heard from my current undergrad PI is that it may get you weeded out for fellowships, though MS usually aren’t funded anyway.</p>