PSAT/SAT scores for NMF

macnyc
Sat, 08 Jul 2006 11:22:47 +0000

I agree with previous posters who said your son’s SAT scores are fine, better than fine. I called College Board on an unrelated matter a few weeks ago, and while I had them on the phone I asked your question. I forgot what the specific answer was, but I remember that the SAT score needed on the M and CR to continue on as NMF was surprisingly low (W doesn’t count yet).

But as far as your son’s taking the SAT again, I don’t think he should bother unless he really really wants to. (I think you need to be psyched to do well on this endurance test.) First of all, most colleges are not yet counting the writing section. It’s just too new. Your son’s 1490 on the CR and M are excellent. And the 640 in writing is still far above average.

My feeling is, test scores are just one part of the application. Essays/recs, the GPA, and ECs are also important. Why take time prepping for the SAT again when other aspects of the application need attention?

An exception would be if your son wants HYP and has the other qualifications, including great scores on multiple SATIIs, and starts his essays early enough to spend adequate time on them. In that case, raising the CR would help him. Just my opinion!