Retaking SAT-I VS. taking SAT-II's....

Test Preparation
1

<p>Okay. So summer has begun, and I'm sitting on some scores.</p>

<p>I got a 2080 on my (May) SAT-I (CR: 640, M: 730, WS: 710), and I'm absolutely positive I can raise the score by over 100 points if I were to retake it in October (my May test was basically a "bad" test for me).</p>

<p>Now, I took the ACT's (with writing) in June on a whim (took 1 practice test the night before), and ended up getting a 35 composite (E: 34, M: 33, R: 35, S: 36 --the writing scores haven't been released yet but I'm sure I did fine).</p>

<p>I took the SAT-II's in June (IIc and Lit), however I had some very big problems with the test center (I signed up later than I should have and my high school, where I took both the SAT-I and ACT, was completely booked), was only able to take 1 of the 2 tests, had to cancel it, and had to file a complaint with the college board due to the ridiculous treatment I recieved at the awful test center.</p>

<p>I plan on applying SCEA to Stanford come fall.</p>

<p>Essentially, the dilemma is what to take in October. Several people I've spoken to have said to just submit my ACT scores, and concentrate on getting 750+ on at least two SAT-II's. Others, however (including my guidance councellor--although I find that GC's info is quite often lackluster, especially when compared to CC) have argued that many schools [that I plan on applying to] have an unwritten "disrespect" for the ACT's, and that a really solid 2200+ will look far better next to the 35 and really boost my chances. One teacher in my school even went so far as to explain to me that one of her students who got a 36 got rejected from every ivy "because he submitted the ACT over the SAT," although I find that it ridiculous to assume that that was the reason for his rejection.</p>

<p>Basically, I'm unsure of which approach to take: SAT-I in Oct and SAT-II's in Nov or SAT-II's in Oct and then possibly SAT-I in Nov. According to a CCer on the Yale board, schools utilizing the academic index (such as Yale) would much prefer a candidate with high SAT-II's accompanying the 35 on the ACT, as they use only the highest score b/t the SAT-I and ACT in the calculation of your academic index PLUS your SAT-II scores, so even getting a 2200 wouldn't benefit me, but a 750+ on two or more SAT-IIs would greatly.</p>

<p>Thanks a lot for your help.</p>

2

<p>I'm not sure I understand the question. There are still two test dates between now and application time, so can't you do both? The order shouldn't matter. Right? Or maybe I'm just not understanding.....</p>

3

<p>I'm basically wondering which is more important: putting a lot of effort into getting really great SAT-II scores, or putting effort into getting really great SAT-I scores. The October test date allows the effort, while November is gonna be in the midst of applications, so not much time for really in depth studying.</p>

4

<p>definately spend more time and focus on SATII's. You'll have a much higher score boost than putting effort into the SAT's.</p>

<p>just my thoughts..</p>

5

<p>yeah if you look at the admit percentages they are essentially equal for SAT & ACT. A 35 ACT is phenomenal...you have nothing to worry about. Go for the SAT II's.</p>

6

<p>I have an unwritten disrespect for the ACT. I'd perfer to see you with a high SAT score. However, it doens't matter. LOL.</p>

7

<p>Hahah @ spartan. Thanks guys, makes sense. I think that's what I'll do.</p>