mention GRE in letter of intent??

[lalabooks]

My schools don't require very competitive GRE scores. For many of them it seems like just a formality. At a couple open houses I attended the chairs of the departments even made jokes about the test. That being said my program is a competitive one as far as the amount of people applying so I feel like all aspects of the application should matter. I took the old test awhile ago and barely scored a 900. I underestimated the test and thought I could "wing" it somewhat but I was wrong. I'm happy with my analytical.

I plan on taking the new test beginning of December. I have been preparing, but can't guarantee a good score for myself. My question is: if I don't score a lot better the second time should I mention something about the not so stellar scores in my letter? I don't want to be a baby and say I'm not a good test taker or that I am not strong at math, even though those are both true statements. I understand the need for an entrance exam and won't bash it just because I didn't do well. There are a ton of reasons I didn't do well that I could tell them but I'm not sure if that is the right thing to do. Or should I just let it be and not draw even more attention to it? I'm happy with all other aspects of my application.

Any advice on this topic would be appreciated!!

[Astarabadi]

Something a faculty member i asked the same question told me "None who is reviewing your application has ever taken the GRE". so why it is important to begin with escapes me!

[LateAntique]

I imagine with a little studying you will score well over a 900. The new GRE format is a little easier to navigate, especially for those of us who don't like standardized tests. I would not mention your GRE scores in your SoP. If the rest of your application is strong, that's all that needs to be said. The SoP should be for wooing this program and letting them know just how great you are, so drawing attention to something like not-so-stellar GRE scores undermines that. Imagine a committee who doesn't really care about your GRE score until you bring it up and then, and only then, does it become an issue. Do the best you can in December and if the rest of your application is strong, you will be taken seriously even if your GRE score is a bit low. Good luck!