My best SAT score at the moment is a 1480/1600 (760 math 720 reading). I want to do engineering, so I plan on taking the math II, physics, and chem SAT IIs in October rather than taking the SAT I again. I’m pretty sure I will be able to do well on these, and I honestly don’t think I would be able to improve my SAT I score (I kinda suck at the reading section). I’m thinking about applying early to Princeton, but is this score too low for me to even be considered? I thought it was actually pretty good, but everyone else is saying you need at least a 1500. I know a lot of other factors determine whether you’re a good enough applicant, and I feel like I have those factors, but it’s just my SAT score that is bothering me. Should I maybe try and take the ACT? Or is Princeton too much of a reach and should I apply elsewhere?
Other people are wrong. Your score qualifies you for further consideration, pending top notch academics and ~720+ on all those subject tests. Don’t bother retaking. Focus on getting those SAT IIs out of the way, and in the mean time craft killer essays and make sure your application is written in a cohesive and appealing fashion. You’re done with the SAT I. Move on.
Calling a score of 1480 “bad” is both disingenuous and disconcerting. Your scores will likely not affect on your admissions outcome. However, your “Woe is me” attitude, if it comes out in the rest of your application package, will do you no favors.
Sorry, I didn’t mean to come off with a “woe is me” attitude. I just know that certain scores can lower your chances, and I guess I was just freaked out by the college confidential posters with near perfect scores. I just wanted to make sure I was being realistic in applying to Princeton.
@Senior2016M Thank you for your advice!