Is a 390 on the GRE Verbal Acceptable for Math Grad Programs?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the acceptability of a 390 GRE verbal score in the context of applying to math graduate programs, particularly in relation to a 600 quantitative score. Participants explore the significance of GRE scores in admissions, the impact of gender diversity in applications, and the experiences of non-native English speakers with the GRE.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern that a 600 quantitative score is too low for math graduate programs, suggesting a retake of the GRE is necessary.
  • Another participant notes that a 390 verbal score might raise concerns for a native English speaker, indicating that it could negatively impact the application.
  • Some participants discuss the importance of other application components, such as recommendations and personal statements, in conjunction with GRE scores.
  • There is a suggestion that being a woman in math may provide an advantage in graduate school applications, although opinions vary on the long-term implications of this diversity factor.
  • A participant questions the relevance of GRE verbal scores for non-native English speakers, indicating a potential difference in expectations.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on what constitutes a "bad" GRE score, prompting a discussion about score ranges.
  • One participant shares their uncertainty about their potential GRE performance based on their ability to answer sample questions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally do not reach a consensus on the acceptability of the GRE scores, with some advocating for retaking the test while others focus on the broader context of the application. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the weight of GRE scores compared to other application elements.

Contextual Notes

There are varying assumptions about the importance of GRE scores based on individual circumstances, such as being a native or non-native English speaker, and the influence of gender diversity in academic applications. The discussion reflects differing perspectives on the implications of these factors.

kathrynag
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So, I just took the GRE and I got a 390 on verbal and a 600 on quantitative. I feel that this is a little low, but is this acceptable for a math grad program? Do they really put that much weight on the GRE scores? I mean, I've seen some schools that don't even require them.
 
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If you want to go to graduate school in math, a 600 quantitative is far, far, far, far, far too low. You should be acing it. A 390 on the verbal section isn't as bad, but for a native speaker of English, it might raise some red flags.

I would 100% recommend taking the test again. No offense, and I'm sure you're very smart, but those scores are awful and they don't make you look very smart.

How is the rest of your application?
 
Well, I am just in the beginning stages of it. I know I should have one very good reccomendation and 2 other good ones. I have a pretty good gpa and I want to put together a good personal statement soon. I'm in a mth honor society, too.
 
I just wonder if being a woman in math plays to my advantage. My advisor told me to feel free to play that card.
 
kathrynag said:
I just wonder if being a woman in math plays to my advantage. My advisor told me to feel free to play that card.

It probably works for you when your applying to grad school, and maybe for post-doc stage. Profs want to be able to say they have good diversity when applying for grants. Later on when your looking for a permanent job though, its tougher to break the "old-boys club" mentality of your potential colleagues. At least that is how I understand it (i'm a guy by the way).
 
kathrynag said:
I just wonder if being a woman in math plays to my advantage. My advisor told me to feel free to play that card.

A decision like this should be whatever makes you comfortable. I know a few women that have expressed disinterest to this line of thinking. Other than that, 600 is really not that high for someone who is in the math honor society. Retake.
 
Does GRE verbal score matter much when you are a nonnative english speaker?
 
... how bad a score are we talking? 200? 250? 300? 350?
 
I haven't taken the test, but looking at the sample questions on the ETS website I can do about half of the analogies and antonyms and nearly all of the sentence completions and reading comprehension. I don't know what kind of score I would get with these.
 

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