[How much will Oxford-educated help me out?]

Hi all, I'm applying for PhDs back home in the States, and I'm wondering realistically exactly how much graduating with a Masters from Oxford will help separate me from other applicants? Obviously I've done well in my masters and have decent marks. How much does what uni you attend help you out?

[Missed GRE subject test]

Hi all,

I was scheduled to take the GRE English subject test in September, but had to move it to October due to emergency travel. Then, on the October date, I woke up extremely ill (too ill to get to London to take the test) and missed it. Now, I have no opportunity to make the test up. I emailed one of my top choices (Indiana-Bloomington) and got word that if my application is really strong in other areas, they may still consider me. What do you all think? Is it worth the application fee to take such a huge risk on the application?