How are my GRE scores?

[MastersHoping]

Hi everyone,

 

     So I took the GRE without any prep (other than two practice exams just to see how I would score) and got 163 v 162 q and 5.0 writing.

 

     How are these scores for masters programs in a humanities field (specifically east Asian studies).

 

     Would they be seen as competitive for a fellowship at top places? Are they high enough that they can at least partially compensate for my low GPA (about 3.35 at the time of application, but from a very reputable undergrad institution).

 

     

[bsharpe269]

I dont think GRE scores can compensate for GPA since its just one test but I think those scores will be on the same level as the other competetive applicants at good schools. Congrats on the good scores!

[awells27]

If it was a PHD program, I might take them over, but a Masters degree would probably be okay.  If I had a month or longer, however, to get the app in, I might prep and take them one more time, since you got those scores without prepping.  Really your choice.  

[MastersHoping]

Thanks guys!

 

So scores like these aren't high enough for a Ph.D program? Or are you saying that it would  simply be a good idea to study and retake it to get better scores since I didn't study the first time around? 

 

And is my GPA really that low?  

Edited February 19, 2014 by MastersHoping

[bsharpe269]

Thanks guys!

So scores like these aren't high enough for a Ph.D program? Or are you saying that it would simply be a good idea to study and retake it to get better scores since I didn't study the first time around?

And is my GPA really that low?

Your gpa is right where my undergrad gpa was. It is low but not super low. I think anything above a 3.0 can be made up for by research and SOP .

I personally think your scores are right where they should be so I think that focusing energy on getting good grades this semester or getting further in your research would be more helpful. Research, SOP, and LORs get you into a program. Grades and GPA are just a cut off usually. Your numbers should definitely put you above any cut off.

[MastersHoping]

Thanks for the reassurance! 

 

I think my S.O.P. is good ,  but since I'm applying for masters and don't intend to do research in the future I don't have much research to speak of. 

 

Unfortunately, my recs are probably very average

 

Does the reputation of my undergrad make up for the GPA at least a teensie little bit? O:) 

Edited February 19, 2014 by MastersHoping

[bsharpe269]

Yes probably a bit. I don't think your gpa is low enough to raise red flags anyway.

I'll be in the opposite situation when I apply for phd programs. I'm getting my masters at a pretty unknown school but with straight As. I'm hoping the grades make up for the fact that they may not recognize the school name.

[iammaffyou]

They definitely will. Your GRE scores are great, what is your major GPA and lat two years GPA?

[MastersHoping]

Hmmm my major GPA (not listed anywhere) is around 3.7. 

 

The last two years, I'm not actually sure haha. There is a general upward trend in my transcript, but a few dips still along the way (I would have a higher GPA but personal relationship issues got in the way during my 3rd year arghhh oh well can't change that now). 

[katethekitcat]

Thanks for the reassurance! 

 

I think my S.O.P. is good ,  but since I'm applying for masters and don't intend to do research in the future I don't have much research to speak of. 

 

Unfortunately, my recs are probably very average

 

Does the reputation of my undergrad make up for the GPA at least a teensie little bit? O:) 

 

An admissions committee can best answer these questions. It all depends on the program, not (unfortunately) our opinions.