Is GRE Analytical Writing very important?

[tomdaschle]

I had a GRE score of V 790(99%) Q 800 (94%), which did thrill me then, but weeks later, I was informed that my AW score was only 3.5 (23%), this was really a devastating news for me as I don't think my writing was so bad to deserve such low points. The problem may be a misinterpretation of the topic and digression. My concern is that will such a shaming AW score exclude or severely harm my chance of admission to top program (i.e. Stanford, Yale, Columbia)? Can I redeem this embarassing case by presenting well-qualified personal statement and writing sample?

[readeatsleep]

i feel like your other two scores are so good that nay negative impact with your analytic score will be mollified by the other.

as long as your writing sample is solid, im sure it wont kill your app for top programs. you could always address the score in your sop.

[Penelope Higgins]

Agreed. A good SOP and good letters, with those scores, will make you a very competitive candidate at top schools.