Tips and suggestions please?

[brovol]

The tests are something that you can keep on taking, and something that with a little effort and practice you can improve on tremendously. And although I don't know the exact formula USNA uses, I think it is safe to conclude that test scores are perhaps the most significant scoring factors, as they are at other academies, and colleges in general.

My son applied to USMA, USNA, and USAFA, and at some point in the process asked his admissions representative from each school what, if anything he could do to improve his chances. In each case the admissions counselor/RC told him that even though he is very competitive now, and that his scores are very good, test scores could still be boosted. His ACT scores are m34, e31 s34, r30, and his sports and leadership are very good, but the one thing they always have emphasised, including the USNA counselor, was test scores. In my mind his GPA (3.8) and class rank (20 out of 138) was clearly his weakest link, but they all push the test scores. I think it is a big deal.

 

[ktnatalk]

I agree with Dadx4, especially his "shoot for the moon" analogy, and I also have no intention to discourage anyone either. I do recommend trying to be well prepared before taking SAT/ACT for the second or third time. Since the Plan B schools may care about how many times a student took them, or do not superscore, I recommend stopping before showing you are not spending the time preparing for the test that has huge implications on how they are being looked at by college admissions.

DS has high SAT/ACT verbal and math scores, and a high class ranking, and has finished his application in September. When he checked in for CVW in the fall, he was one of four attendees pulled aside and offered LOA by the Dean of Admissions.

 

[GlacierNote]

I reread your post GlacierNote. To answer some of your questions more directly: here's what I would do in your circumstance besides ACT/SAT:

You could show the Admissions Board that you are serious about improvement by taking another course in World History and excelling in it. It could be a formal course or a free online course like those offered through EDX. Get a certificate and make it part of your package.

I would play any sport that you like, but don't sacrifice grades for full-time sports. Sports demonstrate your physical aptitude, leadership, and ability to function as a member of a team. Try one and see how you like it. You don't have to be a superstar. You just have to give 100% on the field or court and maintain a positive attitude.

Apply to NASS this summer. You have until March 31st to apply. NASS is not required for admission, but I believe its a good way to show your interest, experience the USNA first hand to see if it's right for you, and to take the CFA. Start working on your CFA now!!

Although the service academies seem to like STEM, there is no specific job field that is better than another. If you want to work this summer, find a job that satisfies your intellectual curiosity. There are many short internships available, but you have to apply soon. I think deadlines are approaching.

NJROTC is a plus. I wish DD's school offered it.

Hope this helps. You definitely have a chance at appointment!

I applied to NASS back in January and now I'm just waiting for a response. Thank you for your words of encouragement and good luck to your DD!

 

[GlacierNote]

The tests are something that you can keep on taking, and something that with a little effort and practice you can improve on tremendously. And although I don't know the exact formula USNA uses, I think it is safe to conclude that test scores are perhaps the most significant scoring factors, as they are at other academies, and colleges in general.

My son applied to USMA, USNA, and USAFA, and at some point in the process asked his admissions representative from each school what, if anything he could do to improve his chances. In each case the admissions counselor/RC told him that even though he is very competitive now, and that his scores are very good, test scores could still be boosted. His ACT scores are m34, e31 s34, r30, and his sports and leadership are very good, but the one thing they always have emphasised, including the USNA counselor, was test scores. In my mind his GPA (3.8) and class rank (20 out of 138) was clearly his weakest link, but they all push the test scores. I think it is a big deal.

I originally planned to take the SAT both in May and June, but my guidance counselor does not recommend taking it back to back, given that I will not have my scores anyways when I take the June SAT. AP exams are also in the week of the May SAT, though for me, the dates do collide. Does anyone have suggestions of when to take it? My teacher advised my friend to take the SAT in May because she can then take the TOEFL and SAT subject tests in June. I'm in a similar situation as her, wanting to take the extra tests as well as getting my scores in for nominations and completing the application early.

For class ranking, as of late January, I hold a 3.78 GPA and is #33 out of 268 students. I feel like this is only decent, but I'm sure not everyone applies with a 4.0.

 

[brovol]

I originally planned to take the SAT both in May and June, but my guidance counselor does not recommend taking it back to back, given that I will not have my scores anyways when I take the June SAT. AP exams are also in the week of the May SAT, though for me, the dates do collide. Does anyone have suggestions of when to take it? My teacher advised my friend to take the SAT in May because she can then take the TOEFL and SAT subject tests in June. I'm in a similar situation as her, wanting to take the extra tests as well as getting my scores in for nominations and completing the application early.

For class ranking, as of late January, I hold a 3.78 GPA and is #33 out of 268 students. I feel like this is only decent, but I'm sure not everyone applies with a 4.0.

Your choice. But my son did best on the second of back to back ACT exams. Not sure why that would be a bad thing. I would take it every time you can if your goal is an academy. No reason not to other than the cost.