Standardized test scores for Ivy League admission

The SAT is a key criterion used by Ivy League admissions offices to evaluate applications and predict college success. It measures students’ abilities in analytical writing, quantitative reasoning and reading comprehension.

The test is a prominent source of anxiety among parents and students alike. Let’s begin by addressing three common questions when it comes to standardized testing and admission to Ivy League institutions:

1. Can a positive result on the SAT outweigh perceived shortfalls in the rest of the application?

The short answer is yes. Top tier institutions are well aware of annual rankings that highlight the average SAT scores of incoming freshmen. They are equally aware that a dip in averages can be a detriment when compared to peer institutions.

As such, the SAT is an essential tool for an admissions committee when it comes to decision-making. Perhaps you son or daughter’s high school transcript took a slight step back during the sophomore year – or maybe they lack meaningful extracurriculars – or struggled during an interview?

For students who are excellent test takers, take advantage! An impressive standardized test score (or set of scores) can quickly deflect attention away from other perceived shortfalls.

2. Can a sub-par score jeopardize an otherwise glowing application?

The answer here depends on your definition of sub-par. For all Ivy League or other highly selective schools, a strong high school transcript is the number one priority. With that in mind, encourage your son or daughter to take a challenging course load starting freshman year. In addition, seek out other avenues for improvement on the application – a meaningful essay, unique work or leadership experience, as well as an interview can make a real difference.

If your child has an exceptional talent in music, dance, athletics or art, encourage him or her to highlight this on an application. Finding these sorts of differentiators can have a real impact. (Take Harvard’s Class of 2017, for example, which reported an average 170 point disparity on the SAT between recruited athletes and non-athletes.)

3. Is there a set cut-off when it comes to standardized testing among Ivy League and peer institutions?

It is important to remember that there is not an “official” cut off when it comes to standardized testing, and each score has a different effect for each applicant; however, there are certain numbers you and your child can use to evaluate their candidacy:

75%: Your child’s scores will be viewed in comparison to the rest of the applicant pool, and compared to the previously admitted classes. As such, scores that fall in the top 75% of all current students at the university is critical. If your child has scores that would put him or her in the bottom 25th percentile of currently enrolled students, the competition is increasingly competitive and other areas of the application will need to compensate for these relatively lower scores.

700: Ivy League admissions officers are more likely to highlight a candidate’s test scores when the number 7 starts off each of the three sections. This is not to say that a 690 will mitigate your changes of acceptance, but it’s important to think realistically about the quality of scores expected.

Starting in March 2016, The College Board will be unveiling the new SAT. It will be an adapted version of its predecessor and include new sections such as “Passport to Advanced Math” and an analysis of U.S. founding documents.

This new exam will seek to evaluate both the college and career readiness of your child. But every student is different – and your child’s background and skills play an important role in determining the effect each test score will have.

AcceptU’s team of former Ivy League admissions officers can serve as a valuable resource as you decide which test your child should take, when they should take it and how to prepare for it.