Hey!
I took a flex test for my SSAT and since I got a better score, I sent that one.
Does schools know that it was a flex test and does that change anything?
Also, I got below 50 percentile for reading, but score 80 overall.
Will that also hugely impact me?
The only difference of a flex test and a regular SSAT is the scheduled date. NO other difference. Because it is on an unusual date, there may be a smaller number of students at the testing session. Other than that, it is the same exact test, with the same time limits, sections, etc. The flex tests are lumped in with the ones given in the Fall for percentages. So, since the majority of students take it in the Fall, there are even more students it is compared to than the January one, with is often an afterthought or last chance to up a score. Also, the school does not care if it is a flex test or not, as they know it is the same exact test and the proctoring is the same. The school can see the unusual date, but the AO I asked told me it makes no difference to them. (my DD also did a flex test)
A 50% on reading is on the low side for most schools, but the 80 overall is okay for the majority of the schools not in the top tier. Top tier likes to see scores in the 80s for all of the sections, to ensure that you can handle the coursework. No school wants to admit someone who will be struggling, who may need to even drop out after a year. They like to give their few spots to those who can handle the four year program.
If you are a sibling or have a significant hook, they may be more open to a low reading score, but it depends on the school and what they are looking for.
Perhaps an additional letter from an English teacher could convince them that the low reading score was a fluke.
Good luck.