low GRE AW score. Can SOP/WS compensate?

[Chase Wang]

I got 3.5 for my analytical writing. Do you guys think it too low for applying most of linguistics PhD programs?

I think the statement of purpose/writing sample could compensate for my low writing score. What do you say?

Actually I mixed the names of two places in my argument. I was careless. But for the rest of writing, I think I've done well. I wonder if it is the lapse in argument that affected my overall AW score.

You may know that most Chinese dont write handsomely in english. But I do have confidence in my academic writing. 3.5 put me into the rank that does not do me justice, either in this particular test or in view of my competency. I am considering whether i should request rescoring.

Am i just too anxious?? Am I overplaying the importance of AW score?

Please dont hesitate to tell me what you think. THX!

Edited July 9, 2011 by Chase Wang

[fuzzylogician]

I can't tell you the AW score doesn't matter at all, but I think it's safe to say that it's the least important component of the whole application packet. You'll have a writing sample and a SOP and in many cases, recommenders are asked to comment on non-native speakers' language abilities in their LORs, so you may get support of your skills there too. There's also a writing section in the TOEFL exam which is somehow easier to get through than the GRE writing sections (that was my impression, at least). I can hardly see anyone saying 'he has great essays and recommendations and a high TOEFL score but his AW is low so we can't accept him.' Really, If the rest of the writing "evidence" in your app shows that you are a competent speaker, that should be enough.

[Chase Wang]

I can't tell you the AW score doesn't matter at all, but I think it's safe to say that it's the least important component of the whole application packet. You'll have a writing sample and a SOP and in many cases, recommenders are asked to comment on non-native speakers' language abilities in their LORs, so you may get support of your skills there too. There's also a writing section in the TOEFL exam which is somehow easier to get through than the GRE writing sections (that was my impression, at least). I can hardly see anyone saying 'he has great essays and recommendations and a high TOEFL score but his AW is low so we can't accept him.' Really, If the rest of the writing "evidence" in your app shows that you are a competent speaker, that should be enough.

Thanks!

I believe so.