Should i retake the GRE? Harvard KSG.

[paxi]

Hello,

I'd really appreciate it if i can get a second opinion on this.

Below is my profile:

Undergrad GPA:3.0 (top uni in South Asia)

Graduate degree: MA Econ 3.67/4 (low ranking, state university in US)

Work experience: By the time i apply i will have (at least two years of work experience in NGO's/poverty alleviation based research etc)

I've given the GRE before and got 1320 (560 V 760 Q AWA 4.0).

Say i'm targeting to get into KSG's MPA/ID program in about two years from now, fall 2012, i just wanted to get a second opinion about whether i should take my GRE's again? Do you think that a 200 point increase will act as a significant weight? Or is my current GRE score sufficient. Or do i not have a chance at all.

Edited May 19, 2011 by paxi

[HandsomeNerd]

yes

[paxi]

Can you please elucidate your answer ?

[indisabelle]

I don't suggest you spending more time on your GRE. As far as I know, your current GRE score will not jeopardize your chance at KSG. You should work harder on your Personal Statement, essays and if possible, working experiences, which I beleive are things that KSG values most, instead of exam scores.

[Damis]

From what I've read, KSG's MPA/ID is one of the most difficult programs to get into. While your Quant score may be pretty good, your verbal and AWA will hurt you. Although, since you're an international student you may not suffer too much of a penalty.

So, while indisabelle has valid points, you have to bear in mind you're competing against folks with high scores in both categories.

There are a couple of posts in this section that highlight work experience and scores for respective schools. Check them out. Good luck!

[paxi]

Ah well i retook it anyway.

Got 780 610. Still awaiting AWA results but expecting them to be around 4.5/5 at least. Should've done just a bit better on the verbal part but still i'm happy. Well, now i know IF i work on the other aspects of my profile i am qualify to a lot of these programs.