GRE/GPA trumping work experience?

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi all</p>

<p>I'm a junior looking towards attending a top IR program (or a similar subject matter). I have a few internships under my belt but no serious work experience. My current cum. GPA is 3.51 and my GRE scores are 570V/720Q/5.5AW. Obviously, I'll be raising my Verbal score and I'm looking to raise my Quantitative score as well. Hell, I'll even aim for a 6 on the AW >:|</p>

<p>My question is whether or not top IR programs (Gtown, Woodrow Wilson School, etcetc) would not mind my sheer lack of work experience if I have maintain my current scores and aim even higher. The schools' FAQs are mum about whether their average incoming GPAs of 3.5 and high GREs are for people with or without work experience...</p>

<p>Much appreciated</p>

2

<p>Those scores are pretty average and your GPA doesn’t scream ‘top-applicant’</p>

<p>You’re going to have to increase your GRE quite a bit to be considered with no work experience.</p>

3

<p>Agreed. My Verbal score is the worst and I’m hoping to get it up at least 100 points. </p>

<p>I was hoping that since my AW and Q were above-average for top programs that it’d be senseless to try and make those scores even higher, though?</p>

<p>Thanks</p>