740 / AWA 4.5 (disappointed with the essay) Retest ?

[sonia.chawla]

I took the test a few days ago. I did realise that taking a practice test and taking the real test are two completely different things even though the real test is easier.

I was nervous, botched up my timing but I got a decent 740 overall. What really disappointed me was my official score report with a 4.5 on AWA.

My score chart reads as follows
740 (97) Q49 (88%) V41 (92%) 4.5 (42%)

How bad is a 4.5 for the top 20 Business Schools or if I want to do doctoral studies. Do I need to take the test again to make the grade ? My writing is not that bad actually. (though typing is a handicap)

[StaceyKoprince]

A 740 is absolutely fantastic - congratulations! I personally don't think a 4.5 is problematic. The schools know that this is an artificial situation (impromptu essay, very short timeframe, strange topics) and they don't expect it to fully reflect your writing ability. You will be able to better showcase your communication skills in your application essays.

Having said that, though, go ask your question in the Admissions Consulting thread, because my expertise is the test itself, not how the admissions officers view your scores. The admissions consultants will have a better idea than I do about this particular issue.