SLE Academic Preference?

[ServiceBeforeSelf2025]

Hello everyone! I applied to SLE about a week ago (I know, a little late) and my application still says pending. My question is what the academy is looking for academically. Do they prefer higher standardized test scores or a higher GPA? Or either? My ACT isn’t the strongest, at a 28. My GPA however is a 4.10 out of 4.00 and I’m ranked in the top 3% of my class. I’m hoping my extracurricular leadership and three sport varsity letters will make up the difference. Any ideas on their preference? Thanks for any input!

 

[bopper]

Class Profile | United States Military Academy West Point

West Point Military Academy

www.westpoint.edu

Standardized test scores are just that...standardized so it is easier to compare students across the nation.
I think they want all those things...High GPA says you can do well for an extended period of time.
High test scores show you are very good compared to others. Leadership and sports are also important.
Do the best you can do improve what you can. Keep taking the ACT and try to improve your score.
You want to look back and see that you did as much as you could.
Also a 28 means different things based on what state you live in.

 

[MidCakePa]

If you're asking about what USMA is looking for as it relates to SLE, know that grades and standardized test scores are important but not the end all, be all. SLE is largely a recruiting event meant to educate potential candidates. So attendees include those whose academic or leadership or athletic profiles fit those of cadets. And attendees also include those from underrepresented groups, which could entail geography, socio-economic status, etc.

In other words, while USMA wants attendees who show potential to handle the academics, it's not a straight rack-and-stack process based only on grades or scores.