Retake SATs or take Subject tests?

SMZ

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So I had signed up for the October 10th SATs having previously taken the SATs and ACTs, when I realized that none of the schools to which I am applying (Including the Academy) require the subject tests. I've already gotten a 34 on my ACTs and 730 Reading, 720 Math and 610 Writing on the SATs. Would you recommend switching into the Reasoning test and retaking that or taking the Subject tests (Physics and Math 2) and submitting them to the Academy (Would they even look at them?)

Thanks
 
Subject tests are not reviewed by the academy.

Take the SAT again and try to improve your Math/Verbal. No doubt that a 730 Math / 720 Verbal is an excellent score, but any increase in your total will move you up the list.
 
Thanks

Also, does or does the Academy not power score? I've heard both sides . . . And do they even look at the writing portion?
 
Take subject tests if

You have an excellent ACT score and your SAT's are very impressive. Take the subject tests only if you plan to apply to a school that requires them (Like the University of California system.) Otherwise, re-take the SAT and put all your effort into the reading and math sections.
 
Food for thought - Your SAT's and your ACT's are excellent. What is the score breakdown on your ACT?
While your scores could rise they could also decrease. IMO - raising your scores by 50 points probably won't significantly increase your chances for an appointment, given the time and expense to re-take the tests.
I have no idea what the rest of your qualifications are but your time COULD be better spent doing something that will enhance your application in other areas.
For instance, spending a Saturday coordinating a volunteer project for a club you belong to will enhance your leadership.
IMO - not all candidates with a 34 ACT or 1450 SAT (CR&M) will get an appointment but if they don't it is not because their SAT's were too low.
They don't look at writing and yes, they super score. I don't know if the AFA combines scores from different tests (USMA does not).
I advise you to look at your schedule and compare the cost/benefit to retaking tests vs other ways to enhance your application.
Good Luck.
 
Agreed. Unless the break down of your ACT has a really low score in there, like a 26 on one of the tests, I wouldn't even be taking it again. Not unless your backup schools (Which i assume you are applying to other schools other than the academy); requires more competitive stats. I.e. If you are applying to an Ivy League school or a tough in state resident school like the University of Texas, then your ACT/SAT are more than high enough for most any school you apply to.

I assume you are a junior in high school. If you truly care about getting into the academy, I would be spending my time in a varsity sport, taking the most advanced classes available, volunteer time, being involved with clubs, demonstrating leadership, and knowing and preparing physically for the CFA. This way, when the time comes to apply to the academy, you can have it all finished in 6-8 weeks. That takes a lot of planning. And don't forget to apply for summer seminar. I have to assume you're a junior. If you're a senior, you're definitely behind the power curve. In which case, definitely move on with finishing your application. best of luck. mike...
 
So I had signed up for the October 10th SATs having previously taken the SATs and ACTs, when I realized that none of the schools to which I am applying (Including the Academy) require the subject tests. I've already gotten a 34 on my ACTs and 730 Reading, 720 Math and 610 Writing on the SATs. Would you recommend switching into the Reasoning test and retaking that or taking the Subject tests (Physics and Math 2) and submitting them to the Academy (Would they even look at them?)

Thanks

YOUR SCORES ARE GREAT! They are far above the curve for any service academy. Statistically, retaking exams with you scores might result in a minimal increase. A 34 (assuming it's your composite score) is also VERY GOOD (36 is max). Taking the subject and reasoning tests would be a good idea just in case you select another backup school who would require them (service academies do not consider these scores).
 
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