Determine what the average test scores are for entering students at the school to which you are applying. Some colleges and universities make this information available on their websites and application materials, while others do not. If you cannot find this data, contact the school’s admissions office to get the information.
Compare your test scores to those of entering students with the statistics you have obtained. Be careful to check if the quartile applies only to composite scores or if it applies to verbal and math scores separately. In the case of GRE scores, for example, quartiles reference verbal and quantitative scores individually. This is because verbal and math scores do not hold equal importance at the graduate level, where you are established in a specialized field of study.
Ask questions before submitting your application, if you are in doubt about how your scores measure up. Admissions officers will help guide you through the application process, and all you have to do is ask. You will know if you are meeting the school’s test requirements if you simply make inquiries and request advice or counseling, since they will tell you.
Don’t get discouraged if your test scores are not in the top quartile or are on the borderline. Colleges and universities use many other criteria to judge your application. Among the admissions factors they will consider are your GPA, extracurricular activities, job experience, volunteer work and letters of recommendation.