<p>Yesterday I was at the Exploring College Options program where they talked about five universities (Stanford, UPenn, Duke, Harvard, Georgetown).</p>
<p>I asked each of them what they do with the SAT/ACT. They basically say that as long as you're at the averages, thats all they really care about. </p>
<p>I'm wondering about this, as Stanford's averages are in the 2000-2300/29-30. Why do people aim higher and higher when they're already at the averages? The Stanford rep told me that retaking 2250+ scores are honestly a waste of time.</p>
<p>So, when you reach Stanford's averages, is it safe to stop? I have a 31 on the ACT, and according to the Stanford rep, I'm above the averages.</p>
<p>i'd say if you have the money and time to take the ACT again, do so. Since you already have an "above average" score, pressure's off, and who knows if you will do better. (and w/e if you do worse). You don't know if ur going to get in 100% in any case, but you can always increase your chances.</p>
<p>The average score is a 2160. People think they have to go "beyond" to please them.</p>
<p>I was wondering if having a super high SAT/ACT score will increase your chances.</p>
<p>All the reps told us that they just check if you're at their averages. Then that's it.</p>
<p>The Duke rep said "We'd rather see what you do for 3 1/2 years than what you do for 3 Saturdays."</p>
<p>Tell this to the kids that pay $1000 for a SAT tutoring class to raise their 2200 to a 2300.</p>
<p>...</p>
<p>I don't completely believe this. Clearly, there is some benefit to having higher scores. Those SAT/ACT averages include many of the hooked applicants. For those who are unhooked, the higher the SAT the better. However, the fewer times it takes to get a higher score, the more impact it will have. I think anyone could get a 2400 if they retook the SAT 30+ times, but it is far more impressive to get that score on the first run.</p>
<p>If that is true, then why is it that people with higher SAT scores are accepted at a greater rate than those with lower? Is it because they naturally have better applications?</p>
<p>I think there's a correlation between higher SAT scores and a stronger app, though of course there are anomalies.</p>
<p>Do they really just care about the averages? This seems odd, but it is good news for me if it is true. I think for Stanford you just have to be amazing and very lucky.</p>
<p>
[quote]
I'm wondering about this, as Stanford's averages are in the 2000-2300/29-30. Why do people aim higher and higher when they're already at the averages?
[/quote]
I would say, the more the better....
[quote]
The Stanford rep told me that retaking 2250+ scores are honestly a waste of time.
[/quote]
That's another fascinating point...</p>