<p>I'm applying for the NCM and I meet all the requirements except for the ACT requirement. I take IB courses, I'm a minority, I have low income, I've gotten all A's and 1 B in my last semester of junior year, I've stayed consistent throughout high school grade wise, etc. BUT, I got a 24 on the ACT!!! Should I continue to apply for the NCM? </p>
<p>Have you taken the SAT? Students often do better on one than the other. Common belief is that the SAT measures reasoning, (plus your test taking skills! some say the SAT only measures your ability to take the SAT :)) and ACT is more content based plus has the issue of timing - more Q’s in less time - but you aren’t penalized for wrong answers/guessing as you are on the SAT. If I were you, I would take the ACT again in September - you have till 8/22 for late registration and start studying everyday now! Also register for the next SAT and make test prep a priority. You only have one shot at this; it’s worth it to really give it your all. </p>
<p>I don’t want to get your hopes up but every year there are kids matched with very low scores. Last year someone was matched to Stanford with lower than a 24 ACT. Yes, of course you need other strengths to make up for low scores but the point is scores aren’t everything, esp when applying through QB. Nevertheless, make a point of doing everything you can to make your test scores reflect your academic profile and your capabilities. </p>
<p>ugh, what a horrible emoticon – sorry about that!</p>
<p>I was mostly confused by the emoticon rather than offended or anything haha. Thank you so much for replying and helping me!!</p>