Can a SAT II Math and AP Calc BC cancel out a poor ACT math score?

Test Preparation
1

Hi all,

So I got a 32 on my ACT math (horrible I know) and it has been bothering me. I am applying to be a physics major (among other things) and know that math is very important for my admission. However, I got a 800 on the SAT Math 2 and a 5 on the AP BC Calc test as well as AP Stat. I am also going to be taking three advanced math classes next year (MVC, Linear Algebra, and IB HL). Given this, would an admissions counselor understand that the 32 on my ACT was a fluke? I had to go to the bathroom during that section and it really threw my timing.

Thanks in advance

2

A 32 is not horrible.

3

Calling a 32 “horrible” is both off-putting and disingenuous - most students would be jumping up and down with that score.

To answer your question, there are no offsets; an 800 on the Subject Test and a 5 on AP does not replace an ACT score. Congratulations on the 800 and the 5.

If you’re truly concerned, the answer is simple - retake the ACT or take the SAT. Good luck.

4

@skieurope I apologize, I should have made the sarcasm a little more evident in my post. I am definitely happy with my 32, I am just wondering whether it would raise a red flag WRT my mathematical ability and whether that red flag could be addressed by my other scores.

Thanks again

5

Because the ACT and AP/SAT II test different things, it won’t off put it.

You got a 32 on the math section. That’s perfectly fine. No college is going to reject you because of that.