<p>@Parlabane: I think the key takeaway for the kids asking “can I get into uber selective schools with relatively low scores” is “yes, but it’s rare”. So they have to ask themselves, if they (in the manner of Harry Callahan) feel lucky.</p>
<p>While I never want to discourage any kid from applying to any school, I am consistently surprised by the schools people with meh scores are considering…as well as the schools they feel are “beneath” them.</p>
<p>My SSAT scores are as follows:
Math: 88%
Verbal: 83%
Reading Comp. : 70%
Score: 2188
Overal: 81%</p>
<p>None of my scores are horribly low but overal is not great. About 3-10% below averages for my schools. I am a straight A student (last semester all grades 98 and above) but do poorly on standardized tests. Will this ruin my chances? I am involved heavily in extracurriculars and athletics.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t fret about a 81.</p>
<p>these “rare” instances, also usually have something to with something that the student will bring to the community —> athletes, diversity, or simply being a positive influence on the school. as the posters above me discussed</p>