Defer or still apply to MPH programs

[Happy89]

I am in a pickle because of the GRE. I am applying to MPH (epidemiology) programs. I took the GRE in early November (late, I know) and got the most lopsided scores in the world.  V-165 Q-<150 AW-4 

I thought about retaking the exam in February (the schools that I am applying to have late deadlines). However, I studied for a year to get the scores that I got and I am unsure if I can boost my score in less than two months. I would hate to defer my application because I REALLY want to go to grad school in this field. But I don't know if it is wise to apply with such a low quant score. Does anyone have any advice? 

 

[Jade355]

You should look for each school's admissions data and find out the average V and Q scores for last year's applicants. If your scores are within 2 points or so, I think you would have a fair shot.

In my opinion, deferring at this point does not make sense. You really have nothing to lose by applying and everything to lose by deferring.

[Dreams]

If you have an otherwise strong profile, including transcripts, go ahead and apply.  Schools won't ding you on one aspect of your application if everything else is fine. 

[Soon2bgrad]

Yikes, if you are doing Epi your quant score is going to be very important.  When the person who is reviewing a giant pile of applications for a math heavy program like epi, GRE scores are going to be an easy way to cut that pile down.  Unless you have excellent math scores from undergrad and are just a bad test taker, do your hardest to bring that score up.

[Happy89]

Update: I got into every school that I applied to. Thanks for the advice.