should i still send GRE scores anyways (even though not required)?

[questioningpsych]

im applying to clinical psych phd programs, and ive been struggling to decide if i should send my scores. i know its optional but honestly i spent a lot of time/effort studying so it feels like a waste to not send them whatsoever. i got a 163 verbal, 154 quant, and 4.0 writing. i keep hesitating because a lot of the schools im applying to include the percentiles for each score, so it looks like 163 - 92nd percentile, 154 - 51st percentile, 4.0 - 55th percentile when i enter it. i feel like i did somewhat well, but i dont want it to be a barrier in the application process. 99% of the schools im applying to have avg scores similar to what i got (usually higher quant though). should i still send the scores anyways? how did you guys decide what to do with your scores?

[PsyDuck90]

If you think they would be an asset to your application and the school says they are optional (and not explicitly saying to not submit them), then I think it is worth it. If you think they bring down your application package as a whole, I would refrain. 

[questioningpsych]

Just now, PsyDuck90 said:

If you think they would be an asset to your application and the school says they are optional (and not explicitly saying to not submit them), then I think it is worth it. If you think they bring down your application package as a whole, I would refrain. 

it might be an asset for some places... my gpa is 3.7 and ive been working as a coordinator for past year and have research experience in undergrad, so i feel like i have experience/relevant experience for the programs im applying to, but its been hard for me to draw the line if the scores it would do help vs harm, thank u for the response!!

[PsyDuck90]

12 minutes ago, questioningpsych said:

it might be an asset for some places... my gpa is 3.7 and ive been working as a coordinator for past year and have research experience in undergrad, so i feel like i have experience/relevant experience for the programs im applying to, but its been hard for me to draw the line if the scores it would do help vs harm, thank u for the response!!

I would send to the places it falls within average or above and don't send to any schools where your scores are lower. 

[pomegranateleaves]

I would only submit them if you seriously think they will help your chances of admission. If they're average, they probably wont help you and will just cost you money