Hi! Here are my following scores:
Percentiles
Quantitative: 99
Verbal: 96
Reading: 66
Overall: 94
Scaled Score: 2259
I understand scores aren’t everything, but how are these scores.
I am applying to Lakeside seattle.
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Lakeside likes high scores and plenty of kids are rejected with scores in the 90-99% range. I believe a big % of applicants have these scores. Your reading score is a bit concerning even though your other scores pull up your composite. Like top college admissions you need high scores, show how you will contribute to the school community, even split of accepted students coming from public and independent school, legacy plays a role, your teacher eval and your interview are all important pieces.
Good luck - I believe historically there are 10-12 applications for every one acceptance.
Your scores are strong. They accept and reject people with similar scores.
Is English your first language? The reading score may be a red flag, but if you think there is time to retake maybe you could study and pull up the reading? If not, hopefully you can submit an excellent writing sample.
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It is. Do you know if anybody else got into Lakeside with scores like this? Like the reading score being very low.
It is. Do you know if anybody else got into Lakeside with scores like this? Like the reading score being very low or one other section being very low, but overall is 94 ish.
There are so many other considerations - are you coming from an independent K-5 or K-8 school with a track record for Lakeside? If yes, your school counselor will be able to speak about your “chances”. Are you applying to several of the other Seattle area independent schools? There are many strong options. Your score alone shouldn’t keep you out - but I do not think (just my opinion) they will add to your application. Are you in a program like Rainier Scholars that guides you through the process? Too much unknown to just speak test scores. As I says, plenty of kids rejected (85-90%) each application cycle. Also, admittance for grades 5 and 6 are small #’s, other years are attrition based only and then a bigger # of openings for 9th grade with rebuilding/rounding out the class.
I mean since the school has to eliminate so many applicants should I retake?
I don’t come from Seattle, so my school is not a feeder.
If you have time and feel like the rest of your application is strong, I would advise you retake. Again, you have not mentioned the grade you are applying to and Lakeside does not provide accommodations for international or students not living with a family - unless this recently changed. There is too much missing information for me to give you better advice. Is English your first language ? Most prep schools go very deep into writing and reading and your score in that area is a flag - unless your essays, teacher reviews are strong around your writing and reading skills. They are projected to take 30 students for grade 5, 50 students for grade 6 and 60 for grade 9.
Other grades have anticipated 0 spots as applications run on average 10-12 apps to 1 acceptance. Are you applying to other independent schools in the Seattle area too?
I would guess potentially hooked applicants - ie: known alumni, athletes to round out a team - but still qualified to succeed at this rigorous prep school.
I am not an international student, but I come from another state though.
English is my first language. Would my verbal score cover up my reading score a bit? Yes, I am applying to other private schools in Seattle.
The reading, in my personal opinion, is more important than the verbal so retake if possible. The reading really shows your comprehension, while verbal can be memorization of lots of words. One doesn’t cover up another. They will want to make sure you have a deep understanding of what you are reading, not just that you are able to maintain a large vocabulary. Make sure you are reading books a little over your level to increase your comprehension. And apply to other schools, as well!
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I think some people here are confused about SSAT scores and how they may be used.
A 66 is well above average, and your SSAT compares you to other test-takers applying to similar schools - who tend to be well above average students. I truly do not believe your score will be a red flag that you can’t read well or handle the work of a competitive private school.
I am not saying you will be admitted, but be assured that Lakeside accepts other students with reading scores in the 50-75 range.
Should you take it again? From my experience, reading scores don’t increase easily. Sure, give it a try if there is still time.
Good luck.
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Do you know people who had scores in that range, but still got accepted? Just curious.
sure do
approximately 1/3 of the admitted applicants have an overall score below a 75. Note some represent diversity, athletic recruits and others stand out for whatever reason.