Should You Retake the GRE if You Skipped the AWA Section?

Many test takers are often left with a mix of emotions and questions after their GRE exam. One such scenario is when a candidate scores well in the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections but fails to attempt the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section. With a total score of 318, you might wonder if it's worth retaking the GRE without the AWA. This article aims to guide you through the implications of missing the AWA section and whether retaking the test could be beneficial for your future academic plans.

Understanding the Importance of the AWA Section

The AWA section is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, while it does not contribute to the total score per se, it is a significant component of your overall profile. This section evaluates your ability to construct and express ideas clearly and coherently. Many university admissions committees do consider AWA scores, especially for PhD programs, where strong analytical and writing skills are highly valued. Additionally, a poor AWA score (like a 2) can negatively impact your application, making you appear less competitive in certain fields, such as those in scientific research or teaching assistantships (TAs) and research assistantships (RAs).

The Implications of Not Attempting the AWA Section

If you skipped the AWA section entirely, the implications for your GRE score can be severe. Essentially, ETS (Educational Testing Service) does not report scores for sections that are not attempted, leading to a nil score for the AWA segment. This scenario could be detrimental to your application, as admissions committees need complete scores to evaluate your overall abilities.

Should You Opt for a Retake?

Given the importance of the AWA score, particularly in light of a bad score, it is generally advisable to retake the GRE. This ensures that your application is complete and does not leave any gaps in your profile. If you have the opportunity to retake the exam, it might be worthwhile to do so to improve both your overall score and your AWA score. If you still want to apply to top-tier universities (those with a minimum GRE score of 325 for admission), retaking the exam is crucial to meet these requirements. For top 50 universities, your current score might be sufficient, but with a bit of flexibility, especially if your profile is strong in other areas.

Other Considerations for Your Application

While your GRE score is an important factor, it is not the only one considered by admissions committees. Universities evaluate a wide range of criteria, including:

Statement of Purpose (SOP): This document explains your academic and professional goals and how the degree will help you achieve them. Letters of Recommendation (LoRs): These letters provide insights into your academic and professional performance from your mentors and colleagues. Resume: Demonstrates your background, work experience, and relevant skills. Toefl/IELTS Scores: For international students, language proficiency is critical in a multilingual academic setting. Relevant Work Experience: Depending on your field, this can significantly enhance your application.

With a strong profile, even a slightly lower GRE score might not be a major issue. However, if your AWA score is particularly low (2 in this case), it is important to address this deficiency. A retake could help you improve this score and strengthen your overall application package.

Conclusion

Skipping the AWA section of the GRE is not advisable as it can significantly impact your application. Unless you have compelling reasons to skip (for instance, if you were severely ill during the exam), you should consider retaking the GRE to ensure a well-rounded application. Be sure to emphasize other strong points in your application to complement your GRE score. With careful planning and review of your overall profile, you can still achieve your academic goals.

Final Thoughts

Every student has unique circumstances, and your decision to retake the GRE or apply with your current score should be based on a thorough analysis of your overall profile and target universities. Equip yourself with the necessary information and support to navigate the complexities of university admissions, ensuring that you present your best self to the admission committees.