I’m applying to Princeton SCEA (It has always been my favorite school and I’m a legacy and was told that it’s my best shot). I have a high SAT score (2360) and 5s on my APs. I am applying for the BSE program, however, and though my math score is good (750), my physics, which I got back today, is a dismal 660. I have a 750 on Bio and an 800 on US History, so what should I do? They say the engineering program “strongly recommends” math and either physics or chem… would it disadvantage me to send bio, math and US? Or should I apply for the AB program and switch into engineering? I did write a killer essay for the engineering supplement though… Thanks!
My son is also applying SCEA but wasn’t happy with his Chemistry score today, I would give you the same advice I game him. Your other scores are good so go ahead and apply but sign up for the Dec test and if you are deferred you will given the chance to send in the new hopefully improved test scores. As far applying to a different program, I don’t know, the admission rate is the same and they are all competitive. Even students applying for liberal arts programs have awesome scores. If you want to study engineering I would apply and maybe your essay will make the difference. We went to an info session in April and told the admin officer that my son took biology and math ii and would that be ok for engineering and even though the website says it is optional she said you have to have chemistry or physics to be competitive. Very few people are rejected SCEA, most are deferred so give it a shot and if deferred study for the physics test and send in a better score. Just my opinion. Good luck
I can confirm that if you get in it is very easy to transfer from AB to BSE. You can do it over the summer before you even start classes. I know this because this is what my son did. You just need to fill in a form and explain why you want to be an engineer. I agree 660 on SAT Physics sounds a little low a s might impact on your selection as a BSE student - whereas your other scores are great.