<p>My GPA is a 4.1, and my SAT’s were a 700 CR and a 540 Math (as of June). I just retook the SAT’s this week, and believe I improved on the reading. I think it’s feasible I got at least a 750. I am retaking the SAT’s in November, and will study more for the math, with a goal of getting at least a 600 (math isn’t my strong suit). However, seeing that I won’t get my scores back for several weeks, I’m not sure if I want to apply test optional or not. Finances are tight, and I am aiming for American’s Presidential Scholarship. I recognize that my GPA is a tenth below their average for the Presidential Scholarship (which is typically a 4.2), and my SAT’s at this point are significantly below their average of a 1400. Should I study extra hard for the November SAT’s and try for a 1400 (and take the chance that I will not reach a 1400 and receive scores that will not support my case for receiving the Presidential Scholarship)? Or, should I apply test optional and have them consider solely my GPA, which is slightly below the average for the Presidential Scholarship? Additionally, does American factor your mid-year GPA into consideration for the Presidential Scholarship? I ask beause based upon my current grades, it looks as if I will exceed a 4.2 by mid-year, but I’m not sure if that will be too late. </p>
<p>For those of you who have been accepted into American, what scholarship did you receive and what were your SAT’s/GPA? Are the guidelines for the Presidential Scholarship rigid or do I still stand a chance, even with a GPA slightly below the Presidential Scholarship average?</p>