Concerned about test scores

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

<p>Yes, people say that Columbia (and all of the other Ivys) doesn't focus on the SAT Is, IIs, ACT,etc. as much as the rest of the application, but I don't see many low test scores getting in to top colleges (unless they are an underrepresented minority). That worries me...</p>

<p>I currently have a 1910 on the SAT (will be taking once more, along with the ACT) and a 690 on the U.S. History SAT II (will take Literature and Math later). I know these aren't by any means BAD test scores, but they aren't necessarily Ivy league standards either. I have (really) great extracurriculars, with a focused, concised list (most with leadership), and I am accomplished in piano (sending in supplement and planning on double majoring). I am also Indian (well, half). I don't want to make this sound like a chance, because it's not. I know that test scores won't get you in just by itself, but I think it can definitely rule you out.</p>

<p>Any opinions?</p>

2

<p>Veryyyyy slim chances. (nice chance thread in disguise)</p>

3

<p>While I'm better off than you in terms of SAT I (2100), we're both in the same boat in terms of not having that perfect, outstanding SAT score that blows people away.</p>

<p>One thing I can tell you is that Columbia is a very diverse, free thinking educational institution open to anything and everything. If you can convince Columbia that you deserve to go there and that your presence will directly enhance the campus and its educational program, then you will get in. The only way you can look at test scores is in the scenario that someone has your identical application and identical life, but a higher SAT score. Then, in that case, they would definitely take the other guy. Given that that is impossible, anybody has a chance - your application just needs to be insanely strong.</p>