ACT vs SAT

Test Preparation
1

<p>I'm going to apply to a bunch of good CS schools, like MIT, Stanford, CMU, Caltech, and Cornell.</p>

<p>I got a 36 on the ACT and a 800 on SAT Math Level 2 and 800 on SAT Physics Level 2 (and 770 on bio, which I took freshman year). However, I got only a 2150 on the SAT Reasoning because I was sick the day I took it. Is it worth taking it again? I know I can do much better, but I'd rather spend my time doing more useful stuff.</p>

<p>Do these colleges care about ACT vs SAT?</p>

2

<p>No, they don’t care. Stick with your 36.</p>

3

<p>Okay. Do I also have to send in a SAT Reasoning Test score (will it end up being automatically sent when I send the SAT II scores)? If not, should I elect to send it or should I not send it?</p>

4

<p>I wouldn’t send in the SAT reasoning; the colleges only need one, so send your ACT.</p>

<p>Be aware that even a 36 ACT is only a small part of the puzzle. My son got a 36 and MIT turned him down. Cast a wide net and try to get some leadership roles in extracurriculars and community service; then you’ll do fine. My son was accepted at 4 top-20 schools and chose Brown, which has an excellent combination CS/applied math concentration (i.e., major).</p>

5

<p>For colleges that disallow score choice, is it possible to send SAT II scores but not SAT I scores?</p>

6

<p>Apparently some schools require that applicants send both ACT and SAT scores if they have taken both tests (I just checked Stanford). In that case, is it better to take the SAT again?</p>

<p>More information about me: <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1374785-chances-top-cs-schools.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1374785-chances-top-cs-schools.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

7

<p>bump
10char</p>

8

<p>I think that schools that disallow score choice will require you to send the SAT Reasoning with your SAT IIs. But I still don’t think it’s worth re-testing. Your test scores are just to “get your app in the door” at those top schools, and yours are fine for that. The SAT Reasoning is a clear anomaly, and you can explain it in your application if you choose. </p>

<p>Concentrate on all the other parts of your application and forget about the standardized tests. Your test scores are fine. What you need now is to show them “what else” you have.</p>