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Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

How much do SAT/ACT scores matter for college admissions?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior and I've been studying for the SAT and ACT, but I'm not sure how much these scores actually matter in the grand scheme of things. Can a strong application make up for a lower score? Any advice or input would be greatly appreciated!

a year ago

Hey there! I totally understand your concern about the importance of SAT/ACT scores. From my experience with my own child's college application process, I can tell you that while these standardized test scores are important, they're not the only factor colleges consider. Admissions officers look at the whole picture, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. A strong application can definitely make up for a lower score. That being said, it's still a good idea to aim for the best score you can, as it can help you stand out in a competitive pool. But remember, don't stress too much about it! Focus on building a well-rounded application and showcasing your strengths. Best of luck with your SAT/ACT prep and college applications!

a year ago

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.