Should I Even Bother?

[WillD]

Hello,

With deadlines approaching for PhD applications, I am beginning to wonder if I should even bother. In other words, I need some advice.

I am planning to apply to some Ivy league schools as well as other top schools. I am wanting acceptance into their PhD programs in their divinity schools. However I have two glaring weaknesses on my application. I am receiving my M.A. from a small school and my GRE scores are weak (580v, 470q). As for the other aspects of my application, I have met and perhaps exceeded language requirements and I should have a 4.0 when I end my graduate work. I know that there are other important aspects of my application (SOP and letters of recommendation). But given my weaknesses, should I even bother?

Thank in advance,

Will

[starmaker]

As long as you can afford the application fees, there's no reason not to bother.

But if you really want the PhD, you should make sure to have some lower-ranking schools as well (if the situation is "either I get a PhD from a top school or it's not worth it to go," then of course you just apply to top schools).