The SAT score question?

Question

I just wanted to see where I stand with my SAT scores. I'm definately planning on taking them again (I want to at least get up to 2000) but for now, this is what I have.

Critical Reading 630 84%
Math 600 73%
Writing 590
Multiple Choice 60 (score range: 20-80)
Essay 8 (score range: 2-12)

I also have a 3.4 G.P.A.

My ideal school is Elon University (with a BFA in musical theatre)

Their scores are as follows:
SAT Reasoning Verbal: 560 - 640 100%
SAT Reasoning Math: 570 - 650 100%

I took honors classes my freshman and sophmore years and in my junior year I took AP classes (still waiting on my scores).

As far as extracurriculars go, I don't have much. Service hours from tutoring and such, 2 years chorus, 3 years drama, young activist club, and I've been in several theatre productions both in and outside of school.

So what chances do I have of getting accepted to my first choice school (obviously not including the actual audition).

My reach schools are Boston Conservatory and NYU.

As far as NYU goes, I need to improve my SAT scores.

Answer 1

SAT

I will be a senior this upcoming school year and I was also thinking of applying to NYU and Elon and I think that you have a great shot at getting in. Your SAT scores are good for that particular school, and if they could be higher that's even better. Go ahead and retake it, but if you can't get the score you want, try taking the ACT with writing (28% of applicants to Elon sent in their ACT scores) - it has a better format and in my opinion it's a lot easier to get a high score on. Unlike with the SAT, if you retake it, the ACT does not have a score report that consists of all your previous taken tests, so your other scores won't be sent to the college without your consent.

Extracurriculars

Even though you're not a superstar in extracurriculars, your activity sheet will be absolutely fine. What's great about what you are involved in is that it shows your passion for music and the arts. That's what you should aim to do on the application - make sure the college knows what your passion is. You'll definitely be able to do this because I already know from just the little information you provided on this page! Colleges aren't looking for well-rounded students, they're looking for students who will make them a well-rounded college. Make sure that Elon knows you will be a great asset to their school by being active in the arts. You can make sure that your message gets across via essays, activties, and even your major. Buy a couple of books to help you with the college essay. A great essay can really set you apart from the rest! Also, focus on beefing up extracurriculars in the arts your senior year to put more emphasis on your talent.

Transcript and GPA

The fact that you've taken honors and AP classes is great. The rigor of your high school courses is very important to colleges. There are ways to boost your GPA. In your senior year take as many AP classes as possible (especially if they offer an extra point in your GPA) and maybe an elective in the arts. Aside from that, stick to straightforward, solid core classes (math, science, english, social sciences, and foreign languages courses; not including courses such as psychology, culinary arts, etc.). Work hard to get A's this year. If you have any C's in any subject area and that grade hasn't improved or has gone up and back down again, consider studying to take the SAT Subject Test in that area. Although your GPA is a little low (the average at Elon is 3.72), you should consider applying early decision since it's your first choice college and that would let them know how serious you are about their school. The acceptance rate at Elon is 41%, but it's 65% for early admission.

Answer 2

It sounds like you definitely have a great chance of getting into Elon, even NYU with those scores. Your GPA and community service hours seem great, colleges don't want students who are involved in everything, they want students who are passionate about a few activities, so just demonstrate that you are really committed to those you are involved in. It's also great that you took AP and honors level classes, that will definitely reflect well on your application. I think that your chances of getting into your first choice are very strong, I know people whose applications might have been considered less impressive than yours, and they got in. I think Elon is a great choice, I have heard great things about it!
P.S. - AP Score are available by phone today for an $8 charge to your credit card if you want to check them

Answer 3

For Elon, your SAT scores fit within the given range, so if you do well with the audition, I think you'll get in. Yes, for NYU, you should probably improve your score.

Good luck!

Answer 4

It sounds to me like you should get into Elon. You can probably get into a better school. You should apply to at least one school that you think is a reach.

Answer 5

If you want to improve your SAT scores, try

http://www.TutorVista.com/SAT