What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
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)

Anyone with a low SAT score here who's been admitted into an Ivy League school?

Hey guys! I scored below the average SAT scores of students typically admitted to Ivy League schools. However, I'd still like to apply to a few, and I'm wondering if anyone here faced a similar situation and was accepted. How did you make your application stand out? Would love to hear your stories and advice!

11 months ago

Hello! I can certainly relate to your situation. My child had an SAT score that was below the average for Ivy League schools, but they were still admitted to one. The key for them was to really focus on their strengths and how they could make a unique contribution to the college community.

For example, my child had a strong background in community service and leadership roles. They used these experiences as the foundation of their application, showcasing their ability to make an impact on their community and lead others. This helped counterbalance the lower SAT score.

Another important aspect was seeking out recommenders who knew them well and could speak to their strengths. My child chose teachers who had witnessed their growth and development over time, and who could speak to their character, work ethic, and potential for success. This provided additional context for the admissions committee to consider.

Finally, my child made sure their personal statement was compelling and well-written. It told a unique story that showcased their passion, determination, and resilience in the face of challenges.

In short, while having a lower SAT score may make your application more challenging, it's still possible to gain admission to an Ivy League school. Focus on highlighting your strengths and demonstrating your potential to contribute to their community. Best of luck!

11 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

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.