High ACT score, Low SAT score for USC?

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>I have about a 3.4-3.5ish gap right now, and I scored poorly on my SAT. The first time I got a 1960, 640 CR 720 M and 600 W. On my retake I scored exactly the same on my reading and math, but scored ten points lower on my writing, for a score of 1950. The problem is, I already sent both scores in (I was hoping for a better score, and wanted to take advantage of the free score report service offered). I plan on retaking it in the fall, this time actually taking time to prepare for it (I hadn't taken the PSAT or any full practice tests; my only preparation was the Question of the Day from College Board). I also hadn't really "studied" for the ACT, other than taking the PLAN (30 composite) and the EXPLORE (25 composite, only missed one question overall (in math)). I took the ACT and scored 35 (also sent directly using free score report service). How much will my low SAT score affect me?</p>

2

<p>If you have a 35 on the ACT, why do you need to retake the SAT? Just submit the ACT score, which is equivalent to about 2340 on the SAT.</p>

3

<p>The problem is, I already submitted my SAT score and I don’t want the 1960 to be the final score. I think that with preparation over the summer I can boost it up enough to make both scores look nice; but if they overlook my SAT score in favor of my ACT score, that would be preferred. Do you know if USC will choose the better score? Or do they consider both if both are submitted?</p>

4

<p>Most, if not all, schools would consider the better one if you submit both.</p>

5

<p>USC: High match</p>

6

<p>Your low SAT score will barely, if at all, affect you. From the USC website, “For students taking the ACT, USC will record the highest composite score”. So I wouldn’t spend your free time this summer worrying about upping your SAT score. Instead, do something interesting. Get a job, start a volunteering drive, dive deeper into your passion, or start working on your essays for college apps. Don’t worry about the SAT score. Chance me back at <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1508050-chances-science-undergrad-new-post.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1508050-chances-science-undergrad-new-post.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;