Navigating College Admissions: Should You Submit Both ACT and SAT Scores?

Discovering that your daughter scored a 35 on the ACT and 1550 (800 in math and 750 in reading) on the SAT is a cause for celebration! The decision on whether to submit both scores to colleges may seem daunting, but with guidance and careful consideration, you can make the best choice for your daughter’s application.

The Equivalence of High Scores

When comparing the ACT and SAT, both your daughter’s scores are exceptional. A 35 on the ACT and a 1550 on the SAT are almost perfect scores, reflecting a high level of academic achievement. However, different colleges and universities may have varying preferences and requirements regarding test score submission.

College Policies on Test Scores

Many colleges do not require applicants to submit all test scores. In fact, many colleges allow students to choose their best scores from multiple test attempts. This means that if your daughter has taken both the ACT and SAT, she can submit her highest scores from either test. The reasoning behind this policy is to give applicants the opportunity to showcase their best performance, regardless of the test they took.

Leaving the Option of Dual Submission

While there is potential for both scores to work well, it is worth considering the benefit of submitting both scores. Having additional evidence of high academic achievement can be a small but significant bonus in a competitive application pool. Some colleges might place more emphasis on certain test scores than others, and with both scores, your daughter has the flexibility to choose the one that aligns best with the admissions criteria of each college.

The Importance of Making the Best Choice

It’s important to also consider the specific requirements of the colleges your daughter is applying to. Some prestigious institutions, such as Stanford and Yale, require all test scores to be submitted, regardless of the test taken. In these cases, submitting both scores would be necessary. However, for other colleges that only require one score, your daughter should submit the score that best reflects her strengths and achievements.

Awards and Recognition

Your daughter’s achievements on these standardized tests are commendable. The scores of 35 on the ACT and 1550 on the SAT indicate a high level of academic performance. She has already demonstrated her capabilities, which means that retaking the tests would not necessarily result in an improvement, and the effort might be better spent on other areas of her application, such as extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations.

Encouragement for College Applications

It’s essential to remember that your daughter has done remarkably well on these tests, and she should be proud of her accomplishment. Now, the focus should be on completing the rest of her college application, ensuring that all other components of her application are strong and well-prepared.

Conclusion

The decision on whether to submit both ACT and SAT scores or just the best one depends on the specific requirements of the colleges your daughter is applying to. While both scores are strong and can be submitted, opting to send both scores can provide additional evidence of her academic capabilities. Regardless of the choice, it’s important to ensure that the rest of her application is also at its best.