Got GRE scores that is quite low? And now you are disheartened that all your dreams to get admitted in top tier universities is bashed. But, let me share good news with you: a less-than-perfect GRE score does not close the door to your dream graduate program.

Top universities admit the students based on their entire application form, not just one fixed score pattern. They focus on “holistic review.” In case your GRE score is not the that good, here’s a time to make your rest of application shine and be admitted in top tier institution.

1. Your Statement of Purpose (SOP): Tell Your Story
2. “SOP”- speaks your complete story

Your statement of purpose is undoubtedly the most powerful tool. It articulates your passion and purpose.

1. Be very transparent on your “Why’s”: As why this particular program? Why you are preferring the particular university? You need to connect your past experiences- related to academic, professional or research background, to your future goals, and how the program will help you in achieving your goal.
2. Actions speak louder than your words: instead of saying that you are a dedicated professional. Provide concrete examples related to it, or tell about any of the challenging project you might have covered. Try to quantify your achievements wherever it is possible on your end.
3. Focus on what you can do, not on what you lack: It’s okay to talk about your lower GRE scores, if you have got some legitimate reason behind it. It may be about your challenging personal period, or any sort of mismatch with the particular standardised tests. But the most important part is to mention about your strengths, like a strong GPA or the relevant experience you hold.

 

2. Exceptional Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

The strong letters which mention about your capabilities from truly acknowledged people, can be a game changer.

• Choose the professors, who can talk about your academic expertise, research potential, and character. If it is possible for them make them write a strong, detailed letter one, not just a generic one to be submitted.
• Your letter should perfectly align with your application narrative. Ask your recommenders to help you. Try to give them your CV, draft of SOP, that highlights about your specific projects, skills or qualities you want to be emphasized.
• The recommender can truly highlight your quantitative abilities in case your GRE quant score was not stellar, or attest to your critical thinking in case your verbal score was lower.

3. Strong Academic Record (GPA)

Let’s suppose your undergraduate GPA is really strong, it can surely be an asset that truly outweighs a lower GRE score.

• Do not forget that consistency is the key, and if you have maintained high GPA, and that too in your major, it would certainly demonstrate your ability to excel out in rigorous academic environments.
• Mention about advanced courses, thesis work or about the independent study that relates to your desired graduate program. It would surely showcase your preparedness for the advanced study.

4. Strong research and work experience:

If you have some practical experience which is linked to your target field, it would surely add immense value.

• Research Prowess: For Ph.D. programs, research experience (publications, presentations, lab work) is invaluable. It signals your initiative and genuine interest in contributing to your field.
• For the ones who are pursuing their Ph.D., research experience for them is invaluable. It highlights your initiative and the interest you uphold in contributing towards the field of your interest.
• Professional experience has its own weightage. The ones who hold a relevant experience related to their skill set pertinent to your graduate program, it is very important to mention about your responsibilities and achievements, that depicts the real-world application of knowledge and dedication.

5. Additional Materials- that can serve as your extra edge:

The programs which require additional materials, use them strategically.

• Your writing samples showcase your analytical and communication skills, particularly the ones which are vital for humanities and social science programs.
• An outstanding portfolio, truly speak volumes about your talent and potential, particularly for the fields that are creative and design oriented.

Remain confident and Strategize your performance:

One test score can never define your entire potential. The individuals who are well rounded, passionate, and promising are preferred by top tier universities, as they can contribute significantly to their academic community and chosen field. Emphasise on crafting a compelling application that would tell a cohesive story of your strengths, motivation and readiness for the graduate level success.

While a high GRE score can surely be helpful, a holistic and compelling application that shines in other areas, would open doors for you in top tier universities. Start strategizing today!!