So i took the SAT Subjects Tests and didn’t do well at all (580 on lit and 550 on U.S. History). Dartmouth says they “recommend” scores but don’t require them. If i submit ACT scores instead (i got a 31) will it be okay for me not to send subject test scores? Should i submit my scores anyway? Should i take my chances without them? Should i not even apply because i won’t have a chance either way?
I would not submit those subject test scores.
You may want to retake those subject tests or take a different one to see if you can achieve a higher score. Dartmouth is so competitive, that submitting strong subject test scores will be a plus. Do not submit the current scores.
A 31 ACT is excellent, but you may want to take that again too if you are serious about Dartmouth
Subject test scores are used to bolster your academic profile, so as long as you have a solid GPA, the scores should not be submitted. Your ACT is within the 25-75 percentile range for Dartmouth, so you should be alright.
Good luck!
With a 31 or 32 ACT, what GPA is expected for 25 - 75 percentile range
I would not submit those subject tests scores
@ccooke925 GPA is very difficult to compare between schools. For example, 3.85 in one school may be top 10% and top 25% in another). In the accepted class of 2021, 96% were in the top 10% of their class. If you’re not, you probably had a hook or cured cancer. You also need to factor in academic rigor as well.
@dbx2122 I would agree with everyone else. Those scores will probably hurt your chances. The 580 Lit would put you around the 38th percentile. The 550 US History would be around 24th percentile.
The average ACT was 33 this last admission cycle. I would retake it. I agree that you should not submit those subject test scores.
Definitely do not submit those scores. They do not cast your preparation in a good light. In fact, I hope that it is better than they would indicate, or you could have a hard time at any very selective college, regardless of your HS GPA.
A 31 on the ACT is a very nice score in the larger scheme of things, but not strong for Dartmouth, unless you are a recruited athlete or hooked in some other way.
No one can tell you that you shouldn’t apply. You already know that your chances of acceptance are low, because most applicants’ chances are low at D or any other highly selective school. Nevertheless, your application consists of more than your ACT score, and we are in no position to judge it.
The most important thing is that you have a couple of academic AND financial safeties that you would be content to attend. If you have those, then you are fine applying to matches and reaches.
oh, I have a 4.2 GPA. Sorry, forgot to mention that, whether it’s helpful or not.
Assuming that the 4.2 is weighted, what is your class rank if your school ranks? What is your course rigor like? Have you taken all of your classes at the highest level available? have you taken any AP exams and if so what are your scores? Any plans to prep for and retake the ACT? Have you considered trying the SAT instead? You could take a timed free SAT and see how you do.
How are your ECs? Do you have any local, state, or national level awards?
A lot goes into painting the big picture.