Don't wanna retake the GRE

[MedAnth077]

If I may interject and add my two cents--- first of all, I want to say that I come from one of those undergrad institutions that really devalues test scores and grades (which I love), so @Peanut, I'm with you when you say the GRE is not a good measure for what most grad programs want in a candidate (esp. PhD programs). That being said, unfortunately, there is a system in place that says grad programs can use those scores in some way--- it's different for every program, some use it as a first cut, some don't really look at it, some use it to determine funding, etc. But what stuck out to me, Peanut, is that you seemed to fair pretty well on some of your practice tests. 155 V and 145 Q are reasonable scores, and certainly if you have other aspects of your application that stand out, I think a graduate admissions committee would be receptive. If I were you, I would seriously reconsider taking the test. Those scores you mentioned above would be a considerable improvement, and I think they speak well to what you are capable of. I also want to say that holy cow, the GRE is an intense experience, and completely frightening, so I feel like for most people, going in the second time would not be nearly as intimidating (maybe it was just my test center, but the security and Big Brother feel was intense). I can highly recommend Magoosh, and they often have sales where I think I paid maybe $150 for access to the site/learning tools for 6 months. Like you, I did not take a math class during my entire college education, and between Magoosh and other free sites, my Q went up 10 points. I know it seems like a major pain in the butt, and it is, but at least getting a 300 will get your foot in the door for those programs that use the test score as a first cut. After that, it gets easier to get to the point where you get interviews and acceptances at those programs. I hope this helps. 

Edited February 26, 2016 by MedAnth077

[Ilikekitties]

Yes, I'm with you on that. I've never had to take one "bubble test" all throughout college. It's a game that I heavily oppose. If I don't get in during this round, then I may retake it.