To what extent does the admissions team consider SAT scores?

<p>I’m a senior who is deciding between Bates and Tufts for EDII. I am wondering how much my 2200 SAT score will help my chances for admission at Bates, given that they are test optional and don’t place as much emphasis on SAT scores as they do other components of the app. Will my score significantly increase my chances of admission, or will the admissions team not see it as an indication of academic ability? The breakdown of my score is:
CR: 740
M: 700
W: 760</p>

<p>Although not at all required, if you submit test scores, they are certainly considered at Bates. Academic ability is arguably the most important factor in the decision process and is determined primarily based on transcript and test scores, if submitted. You have strong test scores. They would certainly support your application.</p>

<p>For an ED decision it’s surprising you would be considering both. My suggestion is to focus less on your admissions chances and more on where you actually want to attend college. Bates and Tufts are very different schools. There are big differences in setting, school size, majors offered, research university-LAC, levels of cultural and racial diversity, endowment sizes, etc. Where do you see yourself being more successful and happy as a student and person?</p>

<p>I was also between Bates and Tufts. tough choices.</p>

<p>You should definitely submit that score. Bates only doesn’t require test scores because they don’t think a person should boil down to test scores and recognize the fickleness of standardized tests. But your scores are definitely impressive and will probably help you a lot.</p>

<p>Thank you to both responders. Berty, which one did you choose and why? Did you get into either/both?</p>

<p>it really depends on which schools… each school has a different deadline</p>

<p>I would highly encourage you to submit your SAT scores. Bates may be test-optional, but that doesn’t mean strong test scores don’t hold any weight. Not submitting your scores can’t count against you, but submitting such strong scores can certainly work in your favor. In my opinion you have nothing to lose.
When it comes to deciding between Tufts and Bates, look at what both are known for. Tufts provides a large city nearby and is known for its strong graduate programs. It offers some resources and research opportunities that Bates may not. Bates, on the other hand, will provide you with a close-knit, collaborative community. Since it does not have a grad school, TA’s are rare and all focus is on the undergrads. Best of luck in whatever you decide :)</p>

<p>Sorry for the late response. I chose Bates because I didn’t get into Tufts, haha. If I had gotten into both I would have had a tough time, for sure. They are very different, also. Try to think about what kind of culture/atmosphere you’d prefer. Academically, the two are pretty much on par with each other, but the social vibes are pretty different from what i can tell.</p>

<p>Berty200, congrats on your Bates acceptance! Enjoy the experience :-)</p>

<p>I got a 1940 (Superscore) in my SAT1 1 (M-790, CR-550, W-600) and 2260 in my SAT 2 (Math 2-760, Chem-770, Bio M-730. Should I submit my SAT 1 and/or SAT 2 Scores to Bates or NYU? Someone please let me know! Thanks! :)</p>

<p>Hi - Bates is test optional. If you’re not comfortable with your scores, don’t submit them. You won’t be penalized by not submitting. I have no clue about NYU :slight_smile: Two very different schools.</p>

I would for sure submit the subject tests to Bates. Don’t know a thing about NYU but those are good SAT2 scores for any school.

Regarding the SAT1, what is their mid 50%? You can find it via the Common data Set section C for 2013/2014 (or 2014/2015 if available yet). If you don’t’ need to submit SAT1 then don’t if you are below the 50% (especially if at or below the 25%). But Bates of all schools really does walk the talk when they say they don’t hold not submitting scores against you. So don’t submit if SAT1 is low for them- you don’t need to.

Again your SAT2 scores are great- submit for sure. Good luck!