Should I take my GRE for the third time?

[tadams25]

I'm new to forums, so if this is in the wrong sections, I apologize!


I've managed to graduate undergrad, with a Bachelor's in Psychology at age 19. My cumulative GPA was a 3.78, and I was a member of my college's National Honor's Society, Psi Chi National Honor's Society, and other various clubs on campus. I completed an internship, and also, studied abroad for a semester...

...unfortunately, the GRE attacks me. I cannot seem to perform impressively. I took the GRE when I was 18, and scored:
Verbal: 340 (18%)
Quant: 440 (16%)
Analytical: 4.0 (48%)

...YUCK!

These scores have deterred me from applying to graduate schools, until I could re-take the test. I studied for a couple months, and my "study," I mean, I spent HOURS studying for WEEKS. So, I just took it again this past Wednesday, and received:

Verbal: 152 (56%)
Quant: 148 (44%)
Analytical: N/A, yet

Needless to say, even though the test has been revised, according to my percentile score, I drastically improved...? Unfortunately, my scores are STILL not impressive.

My question is, I suppose, is it worth the time and money to enroll in a class, and take the GRE for the THIRD time? Or - should I just settle with my current scores, and start applying to graduate schools. My dream is to one day obtain a PhD in Clinical Psychology, but this field is extremely competitive, and I feel like graduate schools will have a look at my GRE scores, and toss my application, without considering my academic performance. Also, I don't know if it will look bad to have three GRE scores, even if the third one improves? I intend on applying to both PhD programs and Master's programs.

Does anyone have any suggestions, experiences, information....anything? I appreciate it SO much. I am insanely passionate about my education and schooling, and I'd really like to achieve my goals. Thank you!

[ELMST]

Take it again. GRE has a new option where you can send only your most recent scores or any score you choose from the last five years. Check it out here...

GRE Revised General Test: GRE ScoreSelect Option

[vikky]

Hi there,

given that you are greatly improved, why not to try and to study some more, and to improve your score a little bit, if time permits? Besides, now one can shoose which score he wants to send, meaning you don't have to show all your scores, including those that you are not happy with.

I am currenctly in similar situation, though I didn't try yet to pass actual GRE, but scored on MSTs the way I am not happy with. I am improving though, it helps me to find the motivation to climb up further.