SAT Dilemma

AVT

USAFA 2015
10-Year Member
Joined
Sep 7, 2009
Messages
372
Hi, I am applying to USMA and USAFA class of 2015. I have taken the November, March, and May SATs.

March SAT:
Reading - 600
Math - 700
Writing - 630

May SAT:
Reading - 590
Math - 700
Writing - 630

I was under the false impression that I knew enough of the test, so I did not need to study anymore as I took an elite class before March that boosted my score from a 1710 - 1930.

Now, my primary concern is about my nominations. The dead line for my two senators is October 1 and 2. My congressman's deadline is October 15.

I can try to take the June SATs in 2 weeks. I would have to do standby testing and pay extra along with driving 30 minutes to the test center on Saturday. I would also have to study a lot during those 2 weeks and balance out my other classes in which I am already struggling in.

However, I feel that my low reading score will harm me in my nomination. The congressman has more slots than candidates each year, and I believe I have a strong chance at being his principle nominee. My nomination applications will be completed without the October SAT.

My question: Would my October SAT scores be used as a basis for nomination or would it be too late?
 
They take the best scores from each test. So you're combined would be 1300. Really nothing to complain about. I'd say take the time to pull yourself together in these final weeks of junior year academically. You're SAT scores are fine.
 
Well, I have a couple of 92s in classes which I wish to raise to 97s.
My overall goal is to exceed the averages for the academies with SAT scores. Academics is my strong suit and balances out average areas of my files.
 
I would put the SAT aside and try the ACT. My new cadet is more of a math/science student and found the ACT much more to his liking. He did much better on the ACT than the SAT. You could take the June ACT if you hurry and register by tomorrow (May 21). The ACT is also given in September so that would be much sooner than the SAT.

As far as paying extra or being on standby and having to drive farther.....how bad do you want West Point? My kid paid the late fee and drove more than an hour to take it again. I would definitely do it so you can go into the summer feeling better about things.

I would probably study for the classes that you have 92s in rather than studying for the SAT. Yes, take the SAT practice tests by all means, but school has to come first---West Point really examines your class rank.
 
I don't have the resources to take either test in June as I am not a licensed driver and there is no local center. The ACT will also be the Saturday before USAFA SS.
I will probably see the largest improvement in my test scores if I have time to comfortably study in the summer. Those 92s, if they are not improved, will hurt my rank as I'm 14/424 with a 97.8 average.
 
I can try to take the June SATs in 2 weeks. I would have to do standby testing and pay extra along with driving 30 minutes to the test center on Saturday. I would also have to study a lot during those 2 weeks and balance out my other classes in which I am already struggling in.

So, in spite of what you said in your original post, there's no real dilemma, is there, since you just said transportation, money, and scheduling won't work for you now that you think about it. Wish I hadn't bothered to reply.
 
I realized that it's not urgent that I improve my scores and received clarification from my parents that it would not be possible to take those tests.

October's scores will improve my chances at a nomination.
I appreciate your words nonetheless and will heed your advice on taking the ACT in September. Thank you.
 
I was accepted as a prospective new cadet for the class of 2014, my SAT score was 1890. The SAT is not a lynchpin like it is at many other universities. As long as the total package you are bringing to the table is strong you wont have a problem. I would still advise retaking it however, because if admissions are anything like this year it will be rather competitive. Hope that make sense.
 
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