Should I retake GRE because of a relatively low quant score?

[bootstrap]

So some of the MFE/math Fin programs I apply to do require GRE scores.

I just took my test today and got Q165 V163. The verbal score is somewhat in line with with my mock test results. But my quant score is a disappointment as I expected to score similarly to what I got in the 3 timed mock tests I did, around 168~169.

I don't know if it's my anxiety affecting my performance, but I did run out of time in the the 2nd section of the test. I got bogged down by 2~3 questions that didn't seem as straight forward as those in the mock tests. And I spent too much time figuring out why the answer choices did not include my hand-calculated answers lol.

In any case, is there any merit in retaking the GRE? Since I see that most of you guys are applying to MFE with scores in the 168-170 range. If so, would you have any suggestions as to how I may improve my score?

Thanks!

 

[benzenephi]

Definitely. 165 is too low. I mean, why would you risk failing the shortlist of your dream program just because of this. Practise with the 5 lb book for quant problems. Take a lot of mock tests online. Easy enough to get 168 if you practise.

 

[bootstrap]

Definitely. 165 is too low. I mean, why would you risk failing the shortlist of your dream program just because of this. Practise with the 5 lb book for quant problems. Take a lot of mock tests online. Easy enough to get 168 if you practise.

thanks for the suggestion!

the thing is, i did more than half of the questions in 5lb already (the latter halves of each section, which are supposed to be harder.)

For some reason, I feel that the questions on the real GRE arent as straight forward as those in the 5lb.

 

[Andy Nguyen]

If you have to report GRE score because some programs require it, then by all means, retake and get the highest score. Top programs expect 168-170.
If none of the programs you are applying to requires GRE, spend time on other things.
Take C++, do the interview books, review your basic options theory, work on the essays, etc.

 

[bootstrap]

If you have to report GRE score because some programs require it, then by all means, retake and get the highest score. Top programs expect 168-170.
If none of the programs you are applying to requires GRE, spend time on other things.
Take C++, do the interview books, review your basic options theory, work on the essays, etc.

Thanks Andy! The score is indeed lower than I expected....would you have any advice on how to improve my score?

 

[Andy Nguyen]

This is an anxiety issue more than anything. Also, there are methods to tacke the GRE where you don't waste time on the easy questions.

 

[bootstrap]

This is an anxiety issue more than anything. Also, there are methods to tacke the GRE where you don't waste time on the easy questions.

thanks! i will shop around for better time management strategies.