<p>I live in Illinois. I took the PSAE ACT last April and scored a 35 (36s on all sections except for reading, on which I received a 33). Is this good enough for me to become a Presidential Scholar Candidate?</p>
<p>In most states I doubt it.</p>
<p>The requirements for becoming a candidate are that you score the highest on either the SAT or ACT in your state. 30 males and 30 females are chosen. In almost all cases, this requires that you have a perfect SAT or a perfect ACT. </p>
<p>For Illinois, I know for a fact that a 35 will not be high enough. I personally know Illinois seniors who have scored a 36, so a 35 will almost certainly not make you a candidate.</p>
<p>:( Well, I cannot say I was surprised, but I had been keeping a last vestige of hope alive.</p>
<p>Yeah, it absolutely doesn’t hurt to hope. Just don’t be surprised if you don’t become a candidate. Even if 60 people in Illinois haven’t gotten 36’s yet, there are still several more test dates that could yield 36. The 36 doesn’t have to be received on the PSAE. I’m an Illinois senior and will be retaking, and I know a lot of other people who will be, too.</p>