Which score is better?

Applying to College
1

We are coming down to the wire and I need to send in test scores for my son’s early decision/action schools. He took the SAT’s 3 times and couldn’t get his writing score above a 690 & a 9 on the essay so he switched to the ACT. He took September’s ACT and got a 34 but only a 24 on the writing (=8 SAT essay). He’s going to try the ACT again next week but I don’t know that he will do better since he has had no time to study. I’m leaning towards sending the ACT scores since colleges don’t report subscores but his essay is still low for his target schools. Below are the breakouts, any suggestions?
SAT: 2230 (R=780, M=760, W=690 Essay=9)
ACT: 34 (E=35, M=36, R=31, S=34 W(Essay)=24)

2

Send both.

3

@KathleenA, Tight deadline - Is he sending the October ACT directly to his ED/EA schools? Tough call, not sure I’d send the SATs, at least not until you knew the Oct. ACT scores.

4

Thanks! We decided to send the ACT to ED/EA. We just got back Oct ACT and my son nailed it with a 36. Now the problem is getting the official scores reported. With the delays surrounding the new Writing section the ACT are asking colleges to accept screenshots. I’m still trying to figure out if MIT, Caltech or UMichigan will accept the screenshots - if anyone knows please respond.

5

Check on their web sites. I know some schools have specifically addressed this (at least one said No).

6

I called MIT admissions and they said to send the screenshot. Caltech said not to bother that they’ll get it in time - I’m not sure about that but will circle back in two weeks. I doubt Michigan will accept screenshots so I will only contact them if the writing scores are seriously delayed.

7

I have read that UMich is hard over on their deadline of 1 Nov.

http://admissions.umich.edu/apply/freshmen-applicants/requirements-deadlines

That bus may have already left.

8

Scores are consistent, send both and congrats!

9

Erin’s Dad I agree that UMich is harsh with their deadline of Nov 1 but my understanding is they will take updates up until the point your application is reviewed. I think I will have my son send the screenshots of is ACT’s - i don’t think it can hurt.

10

Good call on not sending the SATs, and congrats to your S on the 36!

11

Thanks! I’m not sure how he did it since his only prep was doing two reading sections.