Class of 2027 test scores

[Candidate39]

Does anyone predict that SAT/ACT scores will be lower the class of 2027, as current high school juniors have been learning with COVID since they were freshmen? Just wondering if this might impact scores as it has been more difficult to learn through the pandemic.

Thank you for your time.

 

[Pluto]

No. Simply put, they won't be. Schools don't prepare you for the SAT/ACT. You prepare yourself. I might be blunt here, but I put no blame on the pandemic if someone doesn't achieve the score they want. If you want good scores, spend some serious time at khan academy, a Princeton review prep book, or any other tool you like.

 

[MCA_10]

Taking into consideration the devastating affect the pandemic has had on families across the nation I think it is reasonable to assume that there could be lower test scores. Many families suffered economic hardships and as a result it is reasonable to assume that many working age young adults (juniors and seniors in HS) would find employment to support their family. If we give thought to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, when a family is facing insecurity, they are worrying about what their next meal is going to be or a loved one who is very ill. Their focus isn't going to be Khan Academy for SAT prep. Also it is irrefutable that there are different learning methods that different students prefer. Distance learning is tough for both educators and students. Sometimes, lessons aren't taught as well over a computer as they are in person. It is important to recognize that it was freshman year when COVID hit for 2027. Freshman year is where are lot of foundational concepts for the SAT are introduced and cemented. Geometry. Algebra. Critical thinking. Etc. Sometimes it is not as straight-forward as "if you want good scores, spend some serious time at Khan Academy". We all come from different backgrounds, with different experiences, and different struggles. It is vital to try to recognize this issue from a wholistic view and, specifically, how this pandemic will exacerbate the historical struggle for students from disadvantaged communities to apply to a Service Academy.

 

[PyroSweets]

The service academies are constantly trying their best to improve the cadet averages each year, whether those averages are subscores on the CFA or standardized testing scores. They almost always succeed in doing this, raising 3 or more averages if 1 drops down, so it's unlikely that this year will be any exception. The service academies always find the best of the bunch.

Now, with that being said, it is still possible. On occasion, scores drop from one class to the next, and it's just the best of what was offered to the academies. That doesn't mean to lower your standards, though, and you should never prepare less because you expect the challenge to be less difficult. Act like the scores have gone even higher than than they normally would be at, and strive to land fitness and academic scores above that bar.

Worst case scenario? You receive a good CFA or SAT/ACT score that remains competitive.

Best case scenario? You receive an excellent CFA or SAT/ACT score that is highly competitive and may be the extra mile needed to make it in.

Best of luck on your journey!

 

[FlyFalcon]

Many families suffered economic hardships and as a result it is reasonable to assume that many working age young adults (juniors and seniors in HS) would find employment to support their family. If we give thought to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, when a family is facing insecurity, they are worrying about what their next meal is going to be or a loved one who is very ill. Their focus isn't going to be Khan Academy for SAT prep.

I do second this part. Durning my testing time (2019-2020) both my parent had covid.... more than once. Normally before one of my act tests. I drove my self and live in a finished basement so I had no contact with them durning these periods. Yet the knowledge the I'm the only "adult" able to go get food, clothing and drive my sister where she needs or heck take my parents to the hospital ( ER had fun seeing us often) weighed heavily.

The Academies know this. It was brought up in my interviews that my math was low for what school thought it should be around. Told them the truth about my family. So I agree that scores maybe lower yet I also agree that those who know how to study for a test will have little to no impact on their act scores.

 

[flieger83]

I doubt they'll be lower, statistically, than before.

Of course my opinion, and $1.09 at Circle K, will get you an XL soda.

But, FYI, the candidates that I have interviewed so far this cycle have been amazing.

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83