Admissions committees look at your GRE score to determine if
you have the basic knowledge to start and succeed in graduate
school. An outstanding score won't necessarily get you into the
program of your choice but a low score will probably keep you
out. If you scored poorly on the GRE, consider taking it again.
Admissions committees usually focus on your most recent
score.
How should you approach it?
The GRE is standardized; therefore, it has standard
ways of approaching it—question type strategies, time-management
techniques, etc. Understanding the format of the exam and the
ways you can use it to your advantage can significantly increase
your score. Because of the intensity of the GRE and the
competitiveness of today's admissions environment, we highly
encourage you to prep formally for the exam (obvious reasons
aside). The structure that preparation provides can help you
build the skills, techniques, and confidence to score your
best.
What Role Does GPA Play?
When admissions officers evaluate your GPA, they consider the
academic reputation of your college and the difficulty of your
curriculum. Most committees attach more weight to your junior and
senior year grades.
