Advice needed for GRE Scores

[dat_cake]

Hello,

 

I am applying to top-10 mechanical engineering MS/PhD schools (domestic applicant).

 

My GRE scores were:

 

September:

160V 159Q 3.5AW

 

November:

159V 158Q 4.0AW (which was  very frustrating)

 

I'm wondering which score to send, or if I should both scores, for best chances for admission. I'm concerned that the AW score will automatically put me in the "reject pile", but at the same time 4.0 might not be much better.

 

I have never had a problem with my writing and often get compliments from my professors on it. I believe this will be demonstrated in my SOP and I could also ask one of my professors to mention my writing abilities in his letter.

 

I am a native english speaker, by the way.

Edited December 2, 2014 by dat_cake

[GeoDUDE!]

I'd honestly submit the 2nd one... a 4 is a an OK score where I would consider 3.5 terrible. 

[kaswing]

I disagree-- I think the additional points on the other two sections are valuable, whereas the AWA is generally seen as a poor reflection of writing skill. Additionally, you'll have an opportunity to sell your writing skill in the SOP.

[davidng]

That is good

[thepsychoblogist]

In my opinion, I would choose the second score. 

 

In terms of percentile (might be a bit off, you should have the correct one on your result page):

1st time: V (84th) Q (74th) A.W (38)

2nd time: V (81) Q (71) A.W (56)

 

Both your V & Q scores should meet the cutoff for most graduate programs, however the difference between your first A.W score and second is quite large. 

 

Do you have any published material you could include in your application?