GRE score and Asian Studies

[Hige]

Hi all,

I'm wondering on your thoughts of how important GRE scores are when applying to East Asian/Japanese departments. I am applying to a number of schools but my GRE scores are pretty pathetic with a 161 verbal and 145 quantitative.

That said, I have not had a lot of success finding any information regarding the GRE in relation to East Asian studies. It seems to often to lumped in with "English" though I am not sure that is a true reflection.

I'm wondering if I should re-take the test or forge on and work on my writing sample (which I think is pretty solid).

Any thoughts? Any other East Asian students/applicants?

Thanks!