What are the average GRE Scores Requirement for Social Science?

The average GRE scores for top programs often range from 160–165 in Verbal Reasoning and 4.5–5.0 in Analytical Writing, while Quantitative scores are typically lower, around 150–160.

Are GRE scores the most important part of a Social Science application?

No, GRE scores are just one part of a larger application. Other factors like GPA, research experience, and personal statements are often equally, if not more, important.

Should I retake the GRE if my scores are below the average?

If your scores are significantly lower than the program's expectations, it may be worth retaking the GRE. However, a strong application in other areas can compensate for lower scores.

Can I apply to Social Science programs without GRE scores?

Some universities have started waiving GRE requirements due to COVID-19 or other factors, but this varies by program. Check the specific admission guidelines for your target schools.

GRE Scores Requirement for Social Science

When you're applying at the graduate level, chances are that you'll encounter the GRE Scores Requirement for Social Science. Many top universities use GRE scores to assess a candidate's potential, whether it's sociology, political science, anthropology, or psychology. But what GRE scores are considered competitive for Social Science programs? And how much do these scores actually influence your admission?

Today, we will break down the GRE score requirements for Social Science programs, share tips on what scores to aim for, and explain how these scores fit into the larger admissions picture. By the end of this blog, you'll have a clearer idea of how to approach your GRE prep. Let’s work on increasing your chances of admission to the Social Science program of your choice.

The GRE Scores for Social Science programs can vary widely depending on the university and the specific area of study. However, to give you a general idea, here are the typical score ranges:

University	Economics Program	Political Science Program	Psychology Program	Sociology Program
UC Berkeley	Average Verbal Score: 160+ Average Quant Score: 165+	Average Verbal Score: 158+ Average Quant Score: 166+	Average Verbal Score: Optional Average Quant Score: Optional	Average Verbal Score: Optional Average Quant Score: Optional
Yale	Average Verbal Score: 160+ Average Quant Score: 165+	Average Verbal Score: 150-170 Average Quant Score: 150-170	Average Verbal Score: Optional Average Quant Score: Optional	Average Verbal Score: Optional, but strongly recommended Average Quant Score: Optional, but strongly recommended
UCLA	Average Verbal Score: 80th Percentile Average Quant Score: 94th Percentile	N/A	Average Verbal Score: Optional Average Quant Score: Optional	N/A
NYU	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Release Average Quant Score: 90th+ Percentile	N/A	N/A	N/A
UPenn	Average Verbal Score: 164+ Average Quant Score: 154+	Average Verbal Score: Average Quant Score	Average Verbal Score: 163 Average Quant Score: 164	Average Verbal Score: Average Quant Score
Duke	Average Verbal Score: 159 Average Quant Score: 166	Average Verbal Score: 162 Average Quant Score: 162	Average Verbal Score: 160 Average Quant Score: 160	Average Verbal Score: 161 Average Quant Score: 157
University of Wisconsin	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Release Average Quant Score: 92nd Percentile	N/A	N/A	N/A
Brown	Average Verbal Score: 160+ Average Quant Score: 166+	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 80th+ Percentile Average Quant Score: 80th+ Percentile
University of Texas, Austin	Average Verbal Score: 155 Average Quant Score: 168	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 159 Average Quant Score: 151
University of Minnesota	Average Verbal Score: 157 Average Quant Score: 167	N/A	N/A	N/A
Stanford	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 166+ Average Quant Score: 163+	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Accept Average Quant Score: Does Not Accept	N/A
Harvard	N/A	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Release Average Quant Score: Does Not Release	Average Verbal Score: 59th-99th Percentile Average Quant Score:38th-98th Percentile	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Release Average Quant Score: Does Not Release
Princeton	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 160+ Average Quant Score: 160+	N/A	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Release Average Quant Score: Does Not Release
University of Michigan	N/A	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Accept Average Quant Score: Does Not Accept	N/A	N/A
MIT	N/A	Average Verbal Score: Does Not Release Average Quant Score: Does Not Release	N/A	N/A
Columbia	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 160+ Average Quant Score: 160+	N/A	N/A
UC San Diego	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 164 Average Quant Score: 166	Average Verbal Score: 90th Percentile Average Quant Score: 75th Percentile	N/A
University of Illinois	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 161 Average Quant Score: 161	N/A
Northwestern	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 165 Average Quant Score: 160	N/A
Indiana University	N/A	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 70th+ Percentile Average Quant Score: 70th+ Percentile
UNC Chapel Hill	N/A	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 90th Percentile Average Quant Score: 75th Percentile
Penn State	N/A	N/A	N/A	Average Verbal Score: 155+ Average Quant Score: 155+

For Social Science programs, the GRE helps admission committees gauge a student's academic abilities in areas crucial to the field. Programs want to ensure that students can handle the reading, writing, and analytical demands that come with a Social Science degree. However, GRE scores are usually just one part of the overall application.

It may also include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and research experience. That said, GRE scores can often serve as a deciding factor if your application is on the borderline. High scores can boost your chances of admission, while lower scores might need to be offset by stronger qualifications in other areas of your application.

How Much Do GRE Scores Matter

Despite their importance, GRE Scores for Social Science programs are rarely the sole determinant of your application success. Many Social Science programs have a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they look at multiple factors beyond test scores. Your undergraduate GPA, research experience, personal statement, and letters of recommendation can weigh just as heavily, if not more, in some cases.

That said, competitive GRE scores can enhance your application, especially if you’re applying to a prestigious or research-intensive program. But don’t be discouraged if your GRE scores aren’t at the top end of the range. A strong overall application can still get you admitted, especially if other aspects, like your research experience, stand out.

Focus on Verbal and Writing Sections: Since most Social Science programs prioritise GRE Verbal Reasoning and GRE Analytical Writing, allocate more time to these sections during your prep. Build your GRE vocabulary, practice reading complex texts, and hone your essay-writing skills.
Don’t Neglect Quantitative: While Quantitative scores aren't as crucial, performing well in this section can still help. Ensure you're comfortable with basic maths concepts, GRE data interpretation, and logic problems.
Take Practice Tests: Create test day conditions with full-length GRE practice exams. This will help you manage your time effectively and identify areas where you need improvement.
Revise Your Analytical Writing: Use GRE prompts to practice writing clear, well-structured essays within a limited timeframe. Get feedback from teachers or peers to improve your writing further.
Know When to Retake: If your GRE scores are significantly lower than the average for your target program, consider retaking the test. Most universities accept your highest score, so it’s worth trying again if needed.

From the Desk of Yocket

When applying for Social Science programs, GRE scores can be a useful way to demonstrate your academic strengths, but they are rarely the make-or-break factor in the admissions process. Most universities view GRE scores as part of a broader application package that includes your GPA, research experience, and personal statement. However, strong scores—particularly in the Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections—can certainly bolster your chances, especially for competitive programs.

Rather than stressing solely about achieving the perfect score, it’s important to take a well-rounded approach to your application. You can start by taking practice GRE tests online with Yocket and then move forward from there. Research your target schools, understand their expectations, and focus on highlighting your unique strengths in every aspect of your submission. Remember, the GRE is just one component, and your passion for your chosen field will carry significant weight too.

GRE Scores Requirement for Social Science

What are the GRE Scores for Social Science Programs

Why Are GRE Scores Important for Social Science