Trying to scope out my top choices ahead of time, and I've got my eyes set on Cornell! Does anyone know the median SAT scores for incoming freshmen? Is my 1400 going to cut it or should I try testing again?
First of all, it's great that you have set a focus on Cornell, as setting goals can definitely help with your college admissions process.
Cornell follows a holistic admissions process, and while SAT scores are a part of that, they aren’t the only factor that's considered. It's essential to remember this as we dive into the numbers.
Like many top-tier universities, Cornell does typically have fairly high SAT scores, although the exact statistics can vary from one year to the next. As of the latest information, the middle 50% of students had SAT scores between 1470 and 1550.
This range means that 25% of the accepted students scored below 1470, and 25% scored above 1550. Your 1400 score then falls just below the 25th percentile. It's important to note, though, that there are indeed students at Cornell who scored a 1400 or less on their SATs, so it isn't an insurmountable hurdle.
If you believe you can improve your SAT score with additional preparation, you might find it beneficial to take the test again. However, since Cornell uses a holistic process to evaluate applicants, continue to focus on your grades, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities as well - they will all play a significant role in the admissions decision.
Try to showcase a compelling story about your strengths and experiences. For example, if you are a leader in an extracurricular or you've worked on a significant project or research, those details can help to paint a broader picture of who you are as an applicant. Good luck!
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