What does admissions value?

C

CarlosBoozer

Duke phenom
Joined
Oct 15, 2020
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14
Hello, recently I just had my Congressional interview and, in my opinion, believed it went very, very, well. My essay and resume was complimented during the interview which is giving me very high hopes and my answers were very sharp and answered with confidence. On the other hand though, I was told my testing scores were not up to par yet (which I agree, I underperformed greatly). I am curious how much they are valuing the testing scores over CFA’s, Cadet Responses, Resumes, Transcripts, etc,

It would also be handy if someone has information on whether they are still going to take SAT scores because of the pandemic and the current spike going on.

Thank you all
 
Well, without knowing your scores no one can give you a solid handle on your issue.

As far as Covid and the tests go, each Academy has been crystal clear about what is expected of you, testing opportunities, score submission, etc.

Also unclear if you mean "up to par" test scores for the nom or admission.
 
Admissions first value your academics (standarized scores and class rank) since it is 60% of your WCS. However, they are also looking for well rounded candidates as well. In the end, there are a lot of factors that admissioms consider not just academics.
 
If you want answers from this forum, I suggest that you share some info about yourself so it would be easier to assess. Your version of "not good" may not be as bad as you think, but simply "not up to par". Nominations usually nominate candidates they think possess the highest chances in their district/state to receive an appointment from the academy. Therefore, whatever the nom sources think is "not up to par" likely matches West Point standards. And also, what made you feel you did better on the second test? Was it because you had more practice or you were more familiar with the questions?

No matter what, as long as you want a higher score, you MUST take the standardized test. West Point heavily depends on standardized test scores to assess your merits and how you stack up against your competition. It is 60% of your WCS and is weighted even more than GPA since West Point likes the fact that the SAT test is standardized. Also, the Math section is weighted more than the English section.
 
CarlosBoozer said:
Lets just say not good.

i took another test recently though, and I feel I did way better.
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Do not feel the need to post your scores if you do feel like it. There is no simple answer to your questions and very few people on this forum know the answer, and the answer seems to change circumstance to circumstance as well as year to year. You can do some simple research on USMA or any SA web site and research admissions. With a little intuition you can discern what is of importance. I met a several parents recently. One had a Mid at USNA with a 25 on the ACT. The other did not get an appointment and is NROTC with a 34 ACT.

This is a unique year. No one knows how the appointments will unfold compared to prior years. Will there be fewer candidates? more? will test scores be down? will those with high scores early benefit? will the SA's be more patient to see if candidates will raise scores? Again, no one knows.

It sounds like you did well in your interview. Celebrate that and get ready for you next testing opportunity. Good luck!
 
Keep in mind that you could be offered a prep opportunity, if your scores aren’t “up to par”, as you say. And that’s a golden ticket to an appointment should you successfully complete their program.

Keep on trying to improve, to the best of your ability! Know that you did you best, and see what happens. There is a reason they look at the whole person. But academics are a very big piece of that WCS.

Good luck!
 
Gabe_ said:
Do not feel the need to post your scores if you do feel like it. There is no simple answer to your questions and very few people on this forum know the answer, and the answer seems to change circumstance to circumstance as well as year to year.
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Respectfully disagree. As edited, OP started this thread and posted as follows:

CarlosBoozer said:
On the other hand though, I was told my testing scores were not up to par yet (which I agree, I underperformed greatly). I am curious how much they are valuing the testing scores over CFA’s, Cadet Responses, Resumes, Transcripts, etc,
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If you want an assessment of, opinion on or advice on your issue regarding test scores vs. other aspects, nobody can even begin to respond to "how much they are valuing the testing scores over CFA’s, Cadet Responses, Resumes, Transcripts, etc," or what is "up to par" unless those scores (and other variables of "CFA's, Cadet Responses, etc.") are known.

Again, OP started a thread called "what does admissions value" and his/her question is clearly focused on the SAT scores. Despite that, the advice sought by OP is to be given to him in almost a total information vacuum - test scores or otherwise? Probably better to not ask then.
 
justdoit19 said:
Keep in mind that you could be offered a prep opportunity, if your scores aren’t “up to par”, as you say. And that’s a golden ticket to an appointment should you successfully complete their program.

Keep on trying to improve, to the best of your ability! Know that you did you best, and see what happens. There is a reason they look at the whole person. But academics are a very big piece of that WCS.

Good luck!
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Thank you!
 
TheRightStuff said:
Respectfully disagree. As edited, OP started this thread and posted as follows:



If you want an assessment of, opinion on or advice on your issue regarding test scores vs. other aspects, nobody can even begin to respond to "how much they are valuing the testing scores over CFA’s, Cadet Responses, Resumes, Transcripts, etc," or what is "up to par" unless those scores (and other variables of "CFA's, Cadet Responses, etc.") are known.

Again, OP started a thread called "what does admissions value" and his/her question is clearly focused on the SAT scores. Despite that, the advice sought by OP is to be given to him in almost a total information vacuum - test scores or otherwise? Probably better to not ask then.
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The OP asked what does admissions value. Not is this a good score or will this score get me in? Do you know what score will get the OP an appt? No. Nor do I. Again, the OP asked what does admissions value? If you have insight, please share with us all.
Best!
 
Gabe_ said:
The OP asked what does admissions value. Not is this a good score or will this score get me in? Do you know what score will get the OP an appt? No. Nor do I. Again, the OP asked what does admissions value? If you have insight, please share with us all.
Best!
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No need to be snarky.

If you can't comprehend what was said about the test scores in the context of the question, then perhaps it is best to keep your lack of understanding to yourself instead of throwing out thinly-veiled attacks on someone that clearly said they "respectfully disagree[d]" with you.
 
TheRightStuff said:
No need to be snarky.

If you can't comprehend what was said about the test scores in the context of the question, then perhaps it is best to keep your lack of understanding to yourself instead of throwing out thinly-veiled attacks on someone that clearly said they "respectfully disagree
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TheRightStuff said:
No need to be snarky.

If you can't comprehend what was said about the test scores in the context of the question, then perhaps it is best to keep your lack of understanding to yourself instead of throwing out thinly-veiled attacks on someone that clearly said they "respectfully disagree[d]" with you.
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Snarky? You @ed me. If you can add value please do. If you need OP's scores to add value please share. I always believe in pointing someone to the source information and facts. Nothing veiled, thinly or otherwise.
 
More snark. I am sorry you can’t understand it at all, but at least I hope you can put aside your astounding bitterness and passive-aggressive behavior.

Best!
 
I have read and re-read the original post and I think that many of you are misinterpreting the question. The was NOT about WP Admissions taking/valuing Test Scores, it was about his MOC's taking/valuing Test Scores. That is what the question was, if the OP meant Admissions, he should say so.

As for answering, it is really going to depend on the specific MOC's views and probably how many of your competitors within the district don't have scores or have been similarly hampered.

FWIW, I earlier today reviewed a number of candidate records to prepare for some upcoming interviews and a number of them do not have scores. The lack of scores was a particular issue for a couple who attend exclusive/high performing private schools and aren't at the top of their class. Some good scores would help them significantly. I also saw 2 or 3 college reapplicants and to their benefit, they have scores from a year earlier.
 
Agreed. I noticed exactly the same thing initially in Post #4:

TheRightStuff said:
Also unclear if you mean "up to par" test scores for the nom or admission.
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Edit:

Also keep in mind that OP titled the thread “What does admissions value?”
 
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OldRetSWO said:
I have read and re-read the original post and I think that many of you are misinterpreting the question. The was NOT about WP Admissions taking/valuing Test Scores, it was about his MOC's taking/valuing Test Scores. That is what the question was, if the OP meant Admissions, he should say so.

As for answering, it is really going to depend on the specific MOC's views and probably how many of your competitors within the district don't have scores or have been similarly hampered.

FWIW, I earlier today reviewed a number of candidate records to prepare for some upcoming interviews and a number of them do not have scores. The lack of scores was a particular issue for a couple who attend exclusive/high performing private schools and aren't at the top of their class. Some good scores would help them significantly. I also saw 2 or 3 college reapplicants and to their benefit, they have scores from a year earlier.
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I’m aware that tests were cancelled in spring and summer but I’m surprised those candidates couldn’t test this fall here in the Northeast. DS drove to Philadelphia for the September ACT test and tested in Middletown NJ last month, he is scheduled to test in Cranford on December 12 which is still on schedule although with the recent Covid spike that could change. I guess I’m wondering if these candidates tried their best to test or do they think they will have some advantage by not testing?
 
Roadking said:
I’m aware that tests were cancelled in spring and summer but I’m surprised those candidates couldn’t test this fall here in the Northeast. DS drove to Philadelphia for the September ACT test and tested in Middletown NJ last month, he is scheduled to test in Cranford on December 12 which is still on schedule although with the recent Covid spike that could change. I guess I’m wondering if these candidates tried their best to test or do they think they will have some advantage by not testing?
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Don't know. For all I can tell, they may have done their application some time ago and have since tested. The interview should clear that up.
 
OldRetSWO said:
Don't know. For all I can tell, they may have done their application some time ago and have since tested. The interview should clear that up.
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DD has interview scheduled the first week of December via Zoom. DD was able to take a SAT in November with scores coming out next week. Those scores may not get to nomination committee in time via college board. Would you recommend she email a copy and have one handy during interview?
 
I would email and inquire if they want them. Some will ONLY consider those from official sources, mailed directly from the testing agency. And for certain, bring copies. Also of application and resume. If not used? Doesn’t matter. But she is prepared!
 
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