Minimum SAT Scores for Acceptance for Class of 2014

Murf

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Hi.

I've searched here for information on SAT test scores, but curiously I haven't found what I'm looking for ... :confused:

I'd like to know from someone who has been accepted to the USNA (or their parents) - what scores were "really" acceptable - (MATH, READING, WRITING).

Does one of the areas - like MATH - carry more weight? Are there other factors - class rank, GPA etc. that can compensate for low SAT scores? I've looked on-line to see what the requirement(s) are for political nominations - and those scores seem "unrealistically low". Obviously, the higher the score the better one's chances are - but does anyone have a feel for what is generally acceptable?

At roughly what point does the SAT score(s) become a "deal-breaker"?

If one had scores of MATH - READING - WRITING of 600-600-600 for a total of 1800 - is that way too low? (I feel like I'm rambling - and that there may not be a definitive answer to what I'm trying to ask. Just a curious dad ...:redface:)

Thanks,
Murf
:smile:
 
There are no minimum scores, not even for the class of 2013+1. No quotas, just statistics. Here's the link: http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/documents/2008_PlebeProfile_ClassOf2012_0725.pdf (page 3).

If you still want a minimum, then let it be what USNA calls 'competitive'. You don't want to be that guy standing on a hypothetical SAT number line that determines the outcome of your decision. Just do your best and don't worry about the rest.

Have fun with your application!
 
Parkhurst, are NAPS and Foundation SAT scores figured into these 'typical' scores and, if so, where would they fall in the mix? I suppose another way to ask the question would be to ask what would the typical scores look like for those entering directly from high school?

Also, are there not minimums for obtaining official candidacy?
 
Also remember just because you may not be as strong in one part of your application, that doesn't mean another VERY strong part can't pull you through.
 
The Math score on the SAT/ACT carries more weight; reflects the curriculum at USNA. Good Luck.
 
The Class of 2012 Profile is a profile of the entire class. This would include candidates coming from all walks of life: high school, NAPS, Foundation, colleges, etc.

All candidates must be Triple Qualified or Triple Q'd in order to be considered for a nomination. This is a whole person assessment. The Admissions Board reviews candidate admission files for scholastic qualification as they are completed. The board meets every Thursday to review records beginning in late August and continuing until mid-April. Those candidates qualified scholastically by the Admissions Board will receive a a Scholastic Qualification Letter (known as a 'Q' letter). Those candidates determined by the Admissions Board to be highly qualified candidates may receive Conditional Offers of Appointment (known as Letters of Assurance or 'LOA').

Typically, in order to trigger a candidate admission file to go before the Board for scholastic review, a candidate must submit the following documents:
  • Math and English recommendations (1 each)
  • Candidate Activities record (ECA)
  • Personal Data record /Personal Statement
  • Transcript request
  • Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)
I say above 'typically' because there are always exceptions to rules. The Admissions Board may review a candidate file before all documents are submitted if the candidate appears to be highly qualified. Regardless, all documents must be submitted to be considered for an appointment.

In order to be eligible for an appointment, a candidate must be:
  • Found scholastically qualified by the Admissions Board
  • Medically qualified
  • Competitively score on the CFA (be physically qualified)
  • Receive an official nomination
 
Historically, USNA looked for 600/600 as "minimums." However, it is my understanding that there are no longer minimums per se, and I have an accepted candidate this year (non-NAPs, non-athlete) with scores lower than 600/600. Your SATs/ACTs are considered along with your GPA, the classes you took, and the rest of your record.

You should discuss with your BGO whether you should retake your SATs. While 600/600 MAY be "good enough" for USNA, it may not be good enough to get an MOC nom in a competitive geographic area. I occasionally advise my candidates to retake for this reason.

That said, the fact someone heeds my advice, retakes the SATs/ACTs, and even improves his/her scores does not mean a nom/appointment is definitely coming. Merely improves the chances of both. As noted, there is a LOT MORE to your USNA application than your board scores.
 
I really would like to reinforce 85's comments with my area statistics. I have eight candidates in my area that have been extended offers of appointments. Here are the groups college entrance exam score averages:

SAT V - 584
SAT M - 630
ACT E - 24.8
ACT M - 26.4

There is a lot that goes into candidate selection. Getting above 600's is suggested but not the only thing weighed in an appointment offer. Work hard to build out your record so you have a strong showing in the "whole person assessment."
 
SATs are definitely not the only thing considered. My son's scores were:
SAT V: 770
SAT M: 640
He has been the class president for two years, involved in soccer, track, swimming, sings in choir. Participated in a whole host of community service projects, National Honor Society, Boys' State.
He was triple qualified since October and had a nomination, yet no appt. or waitlist. His BGO was surprised too.
I just can't figure it all out! But, we have moved on and he will reapply.
I am not bragging here, just venting and trying to understand why????
 
SATs are definitely not the only thing considered. My son's scores were:
SAT V: 770
SAT M: 640
He has been the class president for two years, involved in soccer, track, swimming, sings in choir. Participated in a whole host of community service projects, National Honor Society, Boys' State.
He was triple qualified since October and had a nomination, yet no appt. or waitlist. His BGO was surprised too.
I just can't figure it all out! But, we have moved on and he will reapply.
I am not bragging here, just venting and trying to understand why????

Your son has a great resume, and I m sure the determination he shows the admissions board by reapplying will only increase his excellent stats.
 
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