SAT scores v. ACT scores on application

<p>I have taken both the SAT and ACT, and I am not sure which scores to send. While I have a 36 on the ACT (one sitting), I also have a 2320 on the SAT, and I am not sure if it would be beneficial to even include SAT scores. Before I get a barrage of replies telling me both scores are good, I should explain that I understand, but am nonetheless in an unusual position. Since some of the colleges I am applying to (HYPS, etc) or programs (BS/MD) have very high score averages, I don't know that including a "lower" SAT would devaluate my ACT. I have to send subject tests anyway, so will they suspect that something is up with my scores if don't send the SAT I scores? Does HYPS even take the ACT seriously enough that I wouldn't be damaging my application by sending only the one?</p>

<p>There are many people who took SAT IIs without having taken SAT I.</p>

<p>Depends what side of the country your coming from. ACT seems more western, while SAT seems more eastern. Of course, there are people who submit from both sides, but the disparity between the two in noticeable. Also, more people took the ACT this year, rather than the SAT. </p>

<p>Personally, I find the SAT to test critical thinking ability more, while the ACT tests time-management and raw knowledge more.</p>

<p>thanks for the replies. I come from the midwest, where the ACT is prolific, so my action wouldn’t seem suspect. I just wonder that many “honors” caliber students, even in the MW, would actually skip out on the SAT. My ACT scores are recent, so the decision may seem unusual at the least. I don’t want colleges to think I am withholding terrible scores or anything of the sort.</p>

<p>There’s no reason for them to believe you are withholding terrible scores. You got a 36, relax. Congratulations.</p>

<p>Most schools will get your SAT I scores if you send subject tests. THAT BEING SAID, they’ll only look at your ACT since it’s higher.</p>

<p>Well, I was planning on using score choice so only the SAT II score get sent. Good idea/bad idea?</p>

<p>@cirroalex, thanks, but there are 8 at my (mediocre) school, so I get the feeling it isn’t a big deal like a 2400 would be</p>

<p>bump.</p>

<p>need some more weigh-in. I have to send all scores tonight!</p>

<p>My son sent his ACT score and his SAT subject tests only. I will admit I felt weird about not sending his SAT score since we are from the NE, but decided I was being silly and over thinking it. Just send what you are most comfortable with and be assured admissions will not over analyze your decision.</p>

<p>Some schools don’t want score choice so just send everything to make it easier on yourself. It won’t hurt.</p>

<p>would they know if I used score choice? With BS/MD, scores get sent from the undergrad institution to the med school, so I feel like any of that info might get lost anyway.</p>