Worried about low GRE quant score

[randomposter]

So I recently took the GRE and got a 166V, 156Q, 5.5AW. I'm decently happy with my verbal score but worry about my quant score. I'm not pitching myself as a quant researcher (comparative/historical instead), and I've taken grad-level quant courses and have done research assistant work for profs doing quant research. Still, I'm worried about the low quant score, it's like 46th percentile or something. Is it worth retaking, or should I just use that time to focus on other parts of my application instead? What schools traditionally weigh GRE/quant scores higher?

[randomposter]

Also, is it worth submitting to optional schools like Berkeley, even with the low quant score?

[strawberrypasta]

Sorry for the late reply to this. I hope it is not too late to give my perspective...

As for retaking it, I would not. I may be a little biased in this because I retook it and did the exact same. Do not waste your time, energy, or mental health retaking it (if I am not too late in my advice). 46th percentile may seem bad, but it really is not when you consider that even a perfect score puts you around the 90th percentile, and we are in a social science field. Most people who are above you are likely in STEM-oriented fields, or at least are marketing themselves as a quant-oriented social scientist.

A lot of schools, including Berkeley, do not require the GRE scores to be submitted. So unless your score is completely outstanding, do not submit it to test-optional programs. If you are comparative/historical-oriented, and are applying to schools that do require GRE scores, just justify it by using another aspect of your application that may counteract that lower score. I am in a similar position, and it has been stressing me out, but I am combatting it by discussing an experience I have in quant methods that counters what my GRE score portrays. I am saying something along the lines of:

[discussing personal factors, such as being first-gen and working multiple jobs] The impact of these challenges is most evident in my Statistics for Life grade and my quantitative GRE score. [a bit more information about my challenges in taking the GRE] These obstacles have only strengthened my resolve to improve my quantitative skills, demonstrated by my performance in [generic name for research course], in which I earned an A. This course provided hands-on experience in designing surveys, creating quantitative datasets, and using R to run statistical models – essential skills in pursuing a PhD in Sociology. Consequently, I believe my success in this course more accurately reflects my ability to excel in doctoral studies than my performances in earlier statistical coursework and the GRE, which does not assess statistical proficiency.

The only caveat to this is that I would not put it in your statement of purpose or personal statement. Oftentimes, there will be a space within the application system itself to give the program more information or to fill in gaps in your application. You want your statement of purpose and personal statement to be as positive as possible and to focus on your strengths and what you will bring to the program. Alternatively, if one of your letter writers was your methods instructor, perhaps have them address your ability to succeed in basic quant courses in grad school. They are splitting hairs by the last 30-50 applicants; everyone at that point is a strong, qualified applicant. Do not give them any reason to put you in the deny pile, rather than the accept. 

Regardless, I do not think that your score is detrimental at all to your application. In fact, it's pretty decent (better than mine LOL) especially as someone who is not quantitatively oriented. It is a holistic application review and even at the schools who do require the GRE, I do not think it will be weighed as much as your writing sample, past experiences, or statements.

I hope this helps! Good luck and do not stress. Know that you have done everything possible and you will end up in the place you are meant to be.