Yet another question about if my scores are good enough

[JennaR90]

Hi everyone. Long time lurker, first time poster. So I am applying to history PhD programs for fall 2014 and I have a strong GPA (4.0), good recommendation letters, and research and teaching experience. However, I am unsure if I should retake the GRE. I got a 162 V, 144 Q, 4.5 AW. Can anyone offer me advice?

[spiny22]

It depends on how important quantitative scores are to history programs. Your verbal is obviously fine. I would ask a professor how important Q is compared to V, and if they say it's at least as important, I would retake. Even bringing up your score a few points could make a difference.

[ToomuchLes]

I agree with spiny22; however instead of calling/emailing a professor, I would contact the graduate department. Thats what I did. I can tell you, as a History grad applicant, UCLA, UCSB, UCSD, and UCI do not put emphasis on your Q score, unless youre competing for a fellowship. 

[awells27]

It depends where you are applying.  As the following link demonstrates, http://magoosh.com/gre/2013/gre-scores-for-top-universities/  ,the most prestigious schools will probably want to see quant in the 150s somewhere and verbal/writing in 90th percentile.  It's an unfortunate aspect of admissions that often overlooks a student's true potential.  Other schools may not be as exacting.  I would contact admissions directors at a few places where you are applying and ask them what is normally looked for in admitted applicants.  They often say there is no exact cutoff, but some will say they prefer a Quant over 50th percentile and a verbal in the 90th percentile.    

[johnnycomelately]

Hi everyone. Long time lurker, first time poster. So I am applying to history PhD programs for fall 2014 and I have a strong GPA (4.0), good recommendation letters, and research and teaching experience. However, I am unsure if I should retake the GRE. I got a 162 V, 144 Q, 4.5 AW. Can anyone offer me advice?

Have you heard back from any programs? Just wondering, my scores are basically the same 163 V, 145 Q, 4.5 AW.

[bsharpe269]

I feel like retaking might be a good idea. Your other credentials are so great that it would suck to miss out on fellowships because of GRE cut offs. Quant scores can be improved alot by studying. I am currently using magoosh and finding it very helpful.