GRE Scores and top Intl Relations Programs (HKS, JH SAIS)

[kargdt]

Hello Everyone,

 

I am wondering if I should submit my GRE scores (taken 3 years ago) to two programs I plan on applying to for Fall 2015 intake:  Harvard Kennedy MPP and MA at Johns Hopkins SAIS.

 

My verbal score placed me in the 91% percentile however, my quant score only at 51% percentile.  I have just enough time to retake the GRE (under 2 months study) before submitting to these schools' deadlines.  Beyond the GRE, I have a fairly strong profile and with letters of rec, work experience,etc.  I believe that the GRE is the wild card.

 

In your opinion, should I retake the exam and try to get the Math higher, or do these schools weigh a high verbal score sufficiently?

 

Thanks in advance.

[lsaiki87]

Hello Everyone,

 

I am wondering if I should submit my GRE scores (taken 3 years ago) to two programs I plan on applying to for Fall 2015 intake:  Harvard Kennedy MPP and MA at Johns Hopkins SAIS.

 

My verbal score placed me in the 91% percentile however, my quant score only at 51% percentile.  I have just enough time to retake the GRE (under 2 months study) before submitting to these schools' deadlines.  Beyond the GRE, I have a fairly strong profile and with letters of rec, work experience,etc.  I believe that the GRE is the wild card.

 

In your opinion, should I retake the exam and try to get the Math higher, or do these schools weigh a high verbal score sufficiently?

 

Thanks in advance.

 

I honestly recommend that you retake the GRE if you feel that you can improve your quant score. Although some schools might not put so much emphasis on it, programs like SAIS have an average of 154-162 for quant because it is so math heavy. You would only be improving your score if you retook it and it might help you with admissions and aid in the long run.