Are my scores good enough? 168Q/159V but a sadly 3.0 AWA

[isabel.pintor.87]

Hello,
I just did the GRE and obtained 168Q/159V but a poorly 3.0 AWA. I'm applying for my PhD degree in Materials Science and their requirements don't say anything about the AWA.
I got a GPA of 4.0 in my master degree and a 3.83 in my bachelor degree, obtaining the highest grades among both generations (Hons).
I'm from Mexico and my TOEFL score is fine (115). I also have experience overseas (I had studied in Japan) and had obtained several scholarships as well.
I'm retaking the GRE in october but I'm worried that I can't get better on the AWA part.
Should I be worried or do you think my background is good enough?

[tommywallach]

Hey Isabel,

We aren't qualified to give admissions advice. Our business is the GRE, not application preparation. The easiest way to answer this question is simply to call the program in question and ask them what their expectations are for the AWA section. Good luck!

-t