<p>There is constant wondering and discussion about standardized SAT/ACT scores and scoring. The wondering and worrying might well be valid, for while there are other variables in the admissions algorithm, these, especially the math tend to be particularly important. </p>
<p>And we often hear that magic number as 600. Let’s look at these from a bit different POV that might help potential candidates. </p>
<p>First, while the normal cut-off score for consideration is 600, the Admissions Committee will consider math and verbal scores as low as 570. Below that score requires the Supe, AD, or other high-ranking official intervention for a candidate. This rule-of-thumb applies only to non-priority targets.</p>
<p>That noted, the MEAN math SAT score for DIRECTLY admitted (not NAPS nor Foundation) caucasian candidates over the past 5 admission seasons is 686 with little variation among the years and verbal 665. AA’s M-630 V598 Hispanic M-656 V-636 These may be more valuable for candidates’ assessing their own performance relative to their peers. Scores range from 410 to 800 in M and 440 to 800 in V. </p>
<p>And remember … these scores are only “average”, not at all exceptional, and exhibit the danger of taking USNA’s company line about “600 SATs” as being the baseline. In fact, one begins to see that a traditional candidate (non-priority target) would have to be genuinely “exceptional” in some other area(s) to stand a chance with a 600. That’s the reality of the numbers. And remember this also … these numbers only reflect the 1200 or so who were appointed … and NOT the 19,000 others who were not. Put another way, unless a traditional candidate scores 685 or above, he/she will be “below average” of those from his/her peer group who are offered an appointment. A harsh but accurate reality.</p>
<p>While of lesser value with NAPS being “involuntary” of sorts in candidates inability to apply, those respective mean scores over the past 5 years are caucasian M-593 V-570; AA M-543 V535; Hispanic M-580 V-569. Scores range from 410 to 800 in M and 370 to 800 in V. </p>
<p>As for NASS? These will lend general guidance, but it is important to recognize that the “acceptance” formula is drastically different. NASS is a targeting recruitment tool, looking at individual candidates through different “glasses.” So … getting into NASS is a positive indicator that USNA sees a candidates as potentially attractive and currently or soon viable for an appointment. Still there is no guarantee of anything beyond a week at NASS. Many appointees attended NASS. Many did not. </p>
<p>And so it is important to recognize that because of the difference in NASS and appointment formulae, there are many who do NOT receive offer of a NASS week who might well be vastly more competitive and viable candidates for appointment to USNA. It was simply that USNA saw no need to use a NASS “recruitment” chit on that candidate. </p>
<p>In any case, I don’t believe there are any “minimum” or bottom-line PSAT/SAT/ACT scores for NASS. The rules simply don’t apply in any specific case.</p>
<p>Finally, a frequent, oft beat-to-death proposition. Take the ACT as well as the SAT. There are MANY many cases where there is significantly better performance on the ACT. There seem to be far fewer cases of candidates doing better on the SAT.</p>