Low SAT Score for USAFA

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usafaapplicant2025

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Sep 14, 2020
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I took the SAT in March and scored low to be competitive for USAFA (1230). I was scheduled to take it 4 more times, but all have been canceled (or soon will be). I live in California, so both COVID-19 and the forest fires are a huge problem right now. So, I'm guessing future SAT spots are limited. Of course, since I have a previous score, I assume I will not have priority for those spots (if there are any). COVID is my district is still rising, so I really don't think I'll have a chance to retake. Do you think USAFA will understand my low score due to how bad both the COVID and forest fire situations are? My GPA is a 4.5, and I have a lot of leadership opportunities that show my character and commitment. Do I still have a chance with my low score? Is there a way for me to communicate/explain my circumstance? I'll do everything in my power to get an appointment, but I understand it's not likely I'll get one.
 
They went test optional like the other academies did. This means your still on the hook for taking the test, and if a candidate can’t I think they should be prepared to explain as to why they couldn’t.
 
jaglvr said:
check your portal... they sent correspondence about testing yesterday.
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I saw that as well. I already sent my score (I did the free score sends on the school SAT day thinking I would get a 1400), so they already have my official scores in the portal. I assume there's no way I can take it back or have them not include it in my admission because it's technically a viable score.
 
I am not sure how convenient or accessible it would be for you but there are still test dates available in AZ, Nov. 7 date is showing registration available. I would be happy to host/help if it would help you. PM me if that is an option for you.
 
Heatherg21 said:
I am not sure how convenient or accessible it would be for you but there are still test dates available in AZ, Nov. 7 date is showing registration available. I would be happy to host/help if it would help you. PM me if that is an option for you.
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A couple days ago USAFA sent a letter to candidates stating they don't encourage traveling to take SAT/ACTs. Not exactly sure why.
 
1) if they encourage traveling they're encouraging the possibility of getting covid. You would be more likely to get Covid if you go to red state to test then if you didn't leave you state/ home at all. They don't want you to assume "I need this test at any cost including getting covid"

2) they said they would be taking tests later than normal ( into February). Which means more slots should be open even for those who live in states that are hurting. Again traveling could mean a higher chance for Covid, they really don't want to encourage that because they care about our safety. You really don't want all of your future pilots having lung problems because you told them they needed to put their life on the line to take a test which included going to a red state or somewhere just as dangerous.
 
The offer still stands. Regardless of the assumed color of the state, or the assumption of one color being more dangerous than another; if the OP needs an assist in my state, they have it. Washing hands and having common sense is the order of the day around here.
 
Glad to hear it. For anyone who needs a test center and missouri is pretty close

There's a testing center where I took my ACT in Festus, Missouri. They did in school and virtual schooling. Because of the in schooling they didn't cancel like some other schools. Small testing sizes ( 6 including me in my room) and they asked that you wear a mask so decently safe. Also not hard to find or get to.
 
Ditto Heatherg21. We can figure out accommodations in Houston. More than one testing center in Katy (West Houston). PM if we can help. (PS - that offer comes with a heavy does of USNA recruiting).
 
usafaapplicant2025 said:
I saw that as well. I already sent my score (I did the free score sends on the school SAT day thinking I would get a 1400), so they already have my official scores in the portal. I assume there's no way I can take it back or have them not include it in my admission because it's technically a viable score.
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I have the same question.
 
"They went test-optional like the other academies did."

Uh, NO, they did not.

Here is the exact wording that was relayed to candidates.
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I want you to know that the Air Force Academy is closely monitoring the availability of standardized testing as the admission season progresses. Many spring tests were canceled, and testing has been delayed to the fall. We understand that some candidates will be unable to take standardized tests due to these cancellations or have concerns that taking tests may expose them or their loved ones to an increased risk of COVID-19.

As you face these challenges, we encourage you to continue your application regardless of the availability of standardized testing. Do not stop now. Testing agencies have added capacity and test dates in the fall. If you have registered for a test, please proceed with your plans. We can accept tests through February of 2021.

However, we cannot predict if tests will be canceled in the fall due to COVID-19 or if cancellations will cause an excess demand on later test dates. The Air Force Academy understands the challenges you face in this very uncertain year. We do not encourage candidates to travel excess distances or spend a night in a hotel to take a test. If you are unable to take standardized tests, the Air Force Academy can still evaluate your academic record based on your high school and/or college record. We are also examining alternate means to evaluate your academic preparedness. We will continue to closely monitor this situation and will work to accommodate our applicants where we are able. Continue to communicate with your counseling team if you are uncertain about any aspects of your application that have arisen due to COVID-19.
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The test is NOT optional. USAFA/RRS will review if you were unable to take it and determine why you were unable. If you simply said "test optional" I do not think you'll like the result. However, as I briefed a young man today; if you sign up and then the test is canceled...you have no control over that. It's the same if they don't offer any tests (SAT or ACT) near you. My candidate was ready to travel over 160 miles, stay in a motel, and test in a small mountain school. That's what USAFA/RRS is saying they are not encouraging.

If you have the opportunity to test, by all means, go for it. If you legitimately can't...I'm sure they'll discuss that with you at a later date.

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83
 
flieger83 said:
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We do not encourage candidates to travel excess distances or spend a night in a hotel to take a test.....
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Interesting how USAFA specifically spelled out recommending not to travel beyond a day trip in their notice. I don't think USMA or USNA asked folks not to do that. I could see it based on COVID risk, but also to help level the financial playing field of the applicants.

No clue what happens if they ask why Candidate X still drove 300 miles and spent the night to test. Should "not encourage" be taken more as an order, or more of a safety net for those who couldn't comfortably afford the costs to do so or were worried about exposure?
 
As difficult as Covid has been, College Board has been terrible IMO. My DD went through the stages--frustration, then anger, then it became so bad it was laughable. She eventually was able to get a test by traveling a long distance. She was hesitant because of the logistics/added stress but I told her not to pass up a chance especially because she had no SAT or ACT scores. My advice is just keep registering for as many as you can with the assumption that some will be cancelled.
 
ACT has it's problems too. For me the first time I was able to take it was September 12th. Up till then all of my dates ( March with school, April, June, July) were cancelled. The reason I really really needed to take the september date was my first senator application is due on oct 2nd. Anddd they decide for this one date to push back the release date from the 22nd to the 28th and that's just the starting release date.

Still I consider my self lucky that I could drive two hours away to take the test. Even with all the cancellations and the driving I just hope I did well.
 
justme said:
Interesting how USAFA specifically spelled out recommending not to travel beyond a day trip in their notice. I don't think USMA or USNA asked folks not to do that. I could see it based on COVID risk, but also to help level the financial playing field of the applicants.

No clue what happens if they ask why Candidate X still drove 300 miles and spent the night to test. Should "not encourage" be taken more as an order, or more of a safety net for those who couldn't comfortably afford the costs to do so or were worried about exposure?
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You have every right to travel as far as you want to take the SAT/ACT. You are not violating any rules or disobeying an order. Its part CYA, traveling has increased risk of COIVD and or travel accidents and they don't want the blame. Its also trying to be reasonable. If you can reasonably travel and take the test, then do it. If you cannot, then do not. They are attempting to communicate that you do not have to make herculean efforts to take it.

That being said, if I thought the ACT/SAT was going to be a strength of my child, I would encourage him to go the extra mile (literally) to give him the best chance.
 
justme said:
Interesting how USAFA specifically spelled out recommending not to travel beyond a day trip in their notice. I don't think USMA or USNA asked folks not to do that. I could see it based on COVID risk, but also to help level the financial playing field of the applicants.

No clue what happens if they ask why Candidate X still drove 300 miles and spent the night to test. Should "not encourage" be taken more as an order, or more of a safety net for those who couldn't comfortably afford the costs to do so or were worried about exposure?
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Hi!

No, nobody would be penalized for driving a distance to take a test and USAFA's not going to ask. They are also not "ordering" you to not do this. I think (my opinion only, not official USAFA/RRS policy) they're just trying to tell folks "hey, we get it...if you can't do this locally, we'll understand but don't go on a hunt/travel binge to get a test..."

If you can test, I'd highly recommend you do; but if you can't...USAFA/RRS and the candidate will discuss this eventually and they'll work it out.

It's a VERY different year!!!
(said Colonel Obvious)

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83
 
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