[GRE scores Top 20 PhD Programmes]

Hmm. I did sort of choose departments based on prestige and city rather than fit... 

OK. I'll work on the writing sample. Thanks team.

[GRE scores Top 20 PhD Programmes]

Hi y'all, 

My GRE scores are 169V/157Q/6.0AW

Last year I was shut out of all the PhD programmes to which I applied, which were all in the PGR Top 20. 

How likely do you think it was the quant. score that was holding me back? And/or if I were to apply again, would I be better served refining my writing sample, or re-taking the GRE again? Or just both?

In general, do you think you need to have completely stellar GRE scores in all three categories (or at least the big two) to be competitive for top-20 ranked programmes? Top-50? 

thanks for any advice or support, team 

as a random aside-- my AOI is meta-philosophy-- does any department welcome this AOI, or is my academic career doomed before it's even begun?