<p>How badly can an average score hurt you? if you have really good grades, unique EC’s and an essay that could probably stand out among others, will SAT score of 1960 ruin your chances at schools like Georgetown or Johns Hopkins? </p>
<p>I mean is a make it or break it part of the whole application?</p>
<p>It’s, and by that I mean standardized testing as a whole, often considered the second most important aspect of your application behind GPA/Transcript. A 1960 will certainly be detrimental to your choices at JHU or Gtown, but it doesn’t mean that your chances are nonexistent. </p>
<p>Holistic admissions means that there are not “make it or break it” parts of the application. A weak GPA or weak scores doesn’t automatically disqualify you.</p>
<p>It’s only part of the application, but your score can hurt you.</p>
<p>^Agree with Jersey13 and cjgone, particularly at very selective schools. Unique EC’s and essays will not completely overcome lower than “normal” test scores for a particular school.</p>
<p>What’s the section breakdown?</p>
<p>I got a 690 on math, a 680 on writing and a 590 on reading. </p>
<p>English is not my native language because I am originally from the Middle East and moved here two years ago. I emailed JHU to ask them about this, and they said they take my background into consideration. </p>
<p>But I still don’t think I stand a chance.
I got these scores in one sitting by the way, when I took them last year in May. </p>
<p>I studied and took the SATs again this October and got the same.exact.scores. on each section… </p>
<p>So I don’t think it’s worth taking them again.</p>
<p>590 on the reading will hurt you. Take the ACT?</p>
<p>I agree with cjgone. Try taking the ACT. There’s less emphasis on critical reading, and there’s a science section. Maybe that’ll balance out your score, and make sure you emphasize your language barrier in your essays.</p>
<p>I actually think that the science section on the ACT is really just an interpretive reading section that puts a huge emphasis on reading speed and comprehension (and actually requires very little specific science knowledge.) It would be tough for a non-native speaker to finish it in time.</p>
<p>Your scores are not average…average is about 1500…and yes, the science section on the ACT is basically critical reading about science. GPA is important, but remember, it is looked at in the context of your school profile (do you attend a very competitive school or a relatively easy public school) and the rigor of your courses.</p>