Are my chances affected by a 980 SAT score?

Hello! I received a 980 on my SAT and am a bit stressed about whether or not my score is competitive enough for college admissions. How much weight do colleges place on SAT scores? Thanks for the input!

While your 980 SAT score may be below average for some selective colleges, it's important to remember that admissions processes often take a holistic approach when reviewing applications. This means that while test scores can be significant, they are only one component of your application. Your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and personal essays are all considered when making admissions decisions.

That being said, it's helpful to research the middle 50% SAT scores of students admitted to any schools you're considering. You can typically find this information on the college's admissions website or through their Common Data Set. If your score falls within or close to that range, your chances of admission may be higher.

If you are aiming for more competitive schools, you might consider retaking the SAT to improve your score. Invest time in test prep, learn strategies to tackle challenging sections, and focus on your weak areas. Many students see improvement after a second or third attempt.

Also, there are colleges that are test-optional, which means that submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required. If you have a strong academic record and compelling extracurricular activities, you might want to explore test-optional schools where your SAT score won't have as much weight in the admissions process.

Lastly, focus on showcasing your strengths in other areas of your application, such as your extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, volunteer work, or any unique skills or experiences you may have. These can help paint a more complete picture of who you are, beyond your test scores.

In summary, while your 980 SAT score might not be as competitive for certain colleges, it doesn't mean the doors are closed to you. Do your research, consider retaking the test if necessary, and focus on highlighting your strengths in other aspects of your application.