GRE General Score Question -- Should I retake it?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of a GRE general score, particularly focusing on the verbal and math sections, in the context of applying for a PhD program in physics at prestigious institutions like MIT and Caltech. Participants explore whether the original poster should consider retaking the GRE based on their scores.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes a score of 158 in verbal may be considered low for top schools, but a score of 170 in math could offset this.
  • Another participant suggests that admissions decisions will also depend on other factors such as transcripts, research experience, publications, and awards.
  • A different participant shares their experience of being accepted into a top 10 school with a similar verbal score, indicating that as long as scores are not "too low," it may not be necessary to retake the GRE.
  • Some participants recommend reaching out to admissions departments or potential advisers for specific guidance regarding score expectations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of retaking the GRE, with some suggesting it may not be needed while others emphasize the importance of understanding specific school requirements. No consensus is reached on whether the original poster should retake the test.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of additional application components beyond GRE scores, but there is no agreement on what constitutes an acceptable score for the verbal section or how it weighs against the math score.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for graduate school applications, particularly in STEM fields, may find this discussion relevant, especially those concerned about GRE scores and their impact on admissions decisions.

Silviu
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Hello! I just had my general GRE and I got 158 on the verbal part. How good/bad is it? I want to apply for a phD in physics, should I retake it? I got 170 for math and I am talking about graduate schools as MIT and Caltech. Thank you!
 
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Here's some stats to consider:

https://magoosh.com/gre/2016/mit-gre-scores/

It seems that your verbal part is a bit low but since your math is higher then it might fly. Often though they will want to look at your transcripts and other factors as well. What other things do have that might influence them? original research? some publications? special skills? awards? Don't forget to include them in your application.

Your best bet s to talk with someone at MIT about it to see what they say and you should apply no matter what.
 
You should know what the requirements are for whatever school you are applying too. I imagine for MIT and Caltech they'd be on the high side.
 
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I got into a top 10 school for mechanical engineering with a 157 verbal. My roommate got the same. I don't think you need to retake. I actually asked our admission department and they said it's all up to professors, and as long as you're not "too low" you're fine. So if you want to know for sure you can talk to specific potential advisers.
 

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