SAT writing matters?

<p>i got 700+ on math and critical reading
but i bombed my essay and got 600 on writing
i know some schools don't look at the writing section
going to retake anyway in october...
but i want to know what harvard thinks of sat writing</p>

<p>It matters.</p>

<p>does it really? i thought they are only going to "look" at it and not really consider it. it was my best section but i was slightly disappointed because i thought it wasnt really considered....just there
it may matter as Saxfreq just said, but does it matter just as much as CR/math?</p>

<p>Well, given that before it became an actual section on the SAT I, it was the only specifically required SAT II exam (the others were left for you to choose), I'd say it's considered, yes. But it may be no more or less important than any other section.</p>

<p>oh ok...thanks!</p>

<p>The most important thing about the SAT II writing for colleges, I believe, is that it backs up a strong admissions essay: It's a way to separate the people who just had good coaching on their application essay and easy English teachers from the people who are actually strong writers.</p>

<p>Harvard admissions officers maintain that they look at everything that is submitted.</p>

<p>You should also know that the new format gives the admissions office the opportunity to see your actual essay -- which Harvard does not do, but it's a good thing to keep in mind for other colleges.</p>

<p>Actually, saxfreq, they do, according to my admissions officer. But this is only when they smell packaging by a private admissions counselor or some other factor.</p>

<p>I thought they said they /could/ but that last year they /didn't/?</p>

<p>Well anyway. It can be done. So watch out, kiddies. They don't want another Kaavya on their hands. =)</p>

<p>Some schools have also used the power to look at essays when they are dealing with people who speak other languages. It gives them a chance to see how well the person can really write in English. They do this since the person could have had help in writing their admissions essay.</p>

<p>PS: One specific school I know does this is Cornell. I don't know about Harvard in particular.</p>