Question about good and bad test scores, as well as school disadvantage.

Applying to College
1

Hello, this is my first time posting in these forums so I’m not exactly sure what the proper etiquette for introduction is. That said, I’m just going to dive right in.

I’m a rising senior set to graduate Spring 2016. My dream school is highly selective (~15%) with an ACT range of 31/34. I got a 33 on the ACT (34 Reading, 29 Math, 34 English, 33 Science) and 9 on the Writing. I have a 3.98 UW GPA and plan on majoring in English (maybe Lit but that’s irrelevant).

On the SAT II tests I took, I got pretty low scores when compared to my ACTs (judging strictly by percentiles). I took Math I, Literature, and Biology with a Molecular Focus. I got a 700 in Math, a 640 in Lit, and a 590 in Bio (I completely misunderstood the subject matter and only studied molecular biology instead of general biology but that’s neither here nor there).

On top of that, I go to a public school in an area of poverty which doesn’t offer two full years of foreign language (you can take two semesters through a community college, which is what I did.) We don’t have AP or IB, instead you just “skip” a grade, so our equivalent to AP Math is taking Geometry as a freshman instead of Algebra I.

So, my first question is: Do SAT II scores really matter? I already sent them off to my first choice school (as well as others) and I don’t think I can undo that because I got my scores today. My second question is: I’ve taken a “maxed out” course load every year of high school, is that all I can do? Will not having the opportunity to take rigorous courses kill my chances of getting into my top schools?

I appreciate anyone who reads this/answers my questions because I’m at a loss of what my next collegiate move is. If I posted this in the wrong area I’m sorry but once again, this is my first post.

2

If the schools require SAT IIs then they matter. >700 is good. The rest may be seen in the context of your school (which is considered at highly competitive colleges). You will only be compared to what your school allows you to do. You won’t be penalized if they don’t offer APs. IMO you’re doing well and should be competitive. Make sure you have a safety you are assured of getting into, can afford, and would be Happy to attend.

3

The SAT IIs weren’t required, just suggested. I guess I should have said that, whoops. But thank you for your response, it is nice to get an objective perspective. I have a few safety schools but I’m going to be more serious about the search as the summer goes on. Once again, thank you!

4

I am also a rising senior and have attended many info sessions over the past year and every single one of them has stressed that you will be considered in the context of your school! I think that if you go to a school that doesn’t offer APs and you have still tried your hardest to take the most challenging courses available, you will be a competitive applicant! When your counselor writes your letter of recommendation, she/he can explain your situation and how hard you have worked, so don’t worry! Good luck!