how important is GRE analytical writing score for polisci?

[suedonim]

I'm from an earlier generation, so I'm out of the loop on some things, like this issue.

What value(s) do polisci PhD programs generally place on the GRE writing test?

It would seem silly to me to give it much weight considering they'll get a serious, article-length, article-style paper (plus personal statement) to evaluate applicant's analytical/writing skills by the dept for itself. I can't imagine putting much faith in the opinions of the people who score this test section for ETS vs. personal or colleague's views. But what do I know?

Thanks in advance for any comments.

[Penelope Higgins]

I do grad admissions in my department most years. Our spreadsheet on applicants doesn't even have a column for the writing section of the GRE.

[twodrifters]

I do grad admissions in my department most years. Our spreadsheet on applicants doesn't even have a column for the writing section of the GRE.

Hi Penelope, following up on your hint for the weight of GRE AW in poli sci PhD admissions, is the spreadsheet used for all rounds of selections? Do most schools follow the same policy as yours? I am curious to know because I'm afraid my AW score of only 4.5 due to lack of preparation will hurt my chances of getting into a T-10 program. If my worries are well-grounded, I will need to take the GRE for the second time.

[Penelope Higgins]

I've never heard anyone reference the writing score when we discuss candidates. We've got your writing sample, your personal statement, and reference letters that talk about your research and writing skills, and everybody knows the test is flawed.

[suedonim]

I've never heard anyone reference the writing score when we discuss candidates. We've got your writing sample, your personal statement, and reference letters that talk about your research and writing skills, and everybody knows the test is flawed.

I appreciate your feedback Penelope. It's helpful and verifies, in the case of your program at least, my hunch.

Thanks.

[studentized]

I think it matters more if the English skills of the student are questionable for some reason, but even then there are other tests for that.