Reposting my post from the linguistics forum
I'm currently a senior majoring in linguistics and decided to apply to my department's MA program for fall 2011.
I think I have a very good shot at getting in; my GPA overall and in the major is very good, I have some research experience, recommendations from a few professors within the department, doing an honors thesis, and a decent SoP.
However, my GRE score is very depressing. I got sick the day before the GRE but I did it anyway (I had no choice, with the deadlines and all) because I was satisfied with the results of the practice tests I had been taking. But I admit, I can't blame it all on that since I did a piss-poor job of preparing for it.
Now, my department "expects" a GRE score of 600 each (I got 400) but at the same time they say they take a more holistic look at an applicant's background, which does give me a glimmer of hope.
Still, is it realistic to believe that I may still be admitted? I mean, they must have a cut-off point somewhere. Is it possible to be accepted with a very low GRE?
I should be finding out any day now, and I am very anxious! :-(
Thanks