Cracking the 720 SAT score can be a complex journey, filled with many questions.
- Understanding the SAT Score: Here we demystify the SAT scoring system and help you navigate what a 720 score really means.
- Implications of a SAT Score: The national average, percentile placement, and the competitiveness of a 720 score in relation to universities are discussed.
- SAT Score to ACT: Are we comparing apples to oranges? This section will help you understand how your score translates to the ACT scale.
So how does a 720 SAT score shape your future opportunities? Let’s find out.
Understanding the SAT Scoring System
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) utilizes a concept known as a composite score to measure a student’s academic prowess. The composite score is drawn from individual section scores, each reflecting a student’s performance in a specific area of the test. The main sections consist of Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW).
The Composite Score Calculation
An SAT composite score is calculated by adding the Math and EBRW section scores. The score for each section ranges from 200 to 800, making the lowest possible composite score 400 (200 from Math and 200 from EBRW) and the highest 1600 (800 for each section if perfect scores are achieved).
The 720 Myth
There’s a common misconception that the lowest SAT score is 720. However, this myth can be easily debunked by understanding the scoring system. As previously explained, the minimum score each main section can contribute to the composite score is 200. Thus, the total possible lowest score is 400, not 720.
For more information about improving your SAT score we recommend checking out: The College Board Website
SAT Scores 400 to 1600
Is 720 a Good SAT Score?
The interpretation of a SAT score largely depends on perspective and expectations. That said, at a national level, a 720 score is considered low. Here’s why:
National Averages
The national average SAT score is approximately 1060, making a 720 score significantly lower. This suggests that a student who has a score of 720 is performing below the majority of their peers on the SAT.
Score Percentile
The percentile ranking of a score provides a more nuanced assessment. A 720 score places a student in the bottom 3-7% nationally. This means that 93-97% of SAT takers scored higher than a 720.
In conclusion, while a 720 score reflects some comprehension and application of college-level skills and knowledge, it’s not considered high compared to national averages and percentiles.
Is 720 a Bad SAT Score?
As harsh as it might sound, a 720 score is considered low in many contexts, especially when seeking admission to top-tier universities.
Ivy League Requirements
To illustrate, universities like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton typically seek students with SAT scores in the top 5% of all test takers – usually, that means a score of 1380 and above. So, a score of 720 is likely to be viewed as uncompetitive for these institutions.
Other Universities
Even at other less competitive, but still popular, universities, a score of 720 might not be seen as strong. For instance, New York University (NYU), which has an average SAT score range from 1310 to 1510 for accepted students, may not readily consider a 720 score.
While these examples provide context, remember that other factors are often considered in college admissions, including GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
720 SAT Score Percentile
As mentioned earlier, a 720 score places a student in the bottom 3-7% nationally. But what does that mean?
In practical terms, the percentile indicates the proportion of test-takers who scored less than or equal to a given score. So, having a score in the 3-7% range means that 93-97% of test-takers scored higher than a 720.
While this percentile ranking seems daunting, it’s important to note that different colleges have different average SAT scores for their admitted students. Therefore, students with a 720 SAT score may still find colleges where they meet or exceed the average admitted student score.
720 SAT Score to ACT
Understanding the equivalent ACT score for a 720 score can provide another perspective for college admissions. Both SAT and ACT scores are widely accepted by colleges and can be used interchangeably in many cases.
According to the percentile ranks, a 720 score roughly aligns with an ACT score of 16. Similarly, this ACT score lies in the lower chunk of percentiles, with the majority of test takers scoring higher.
To clarify:
- SAT Score: 720
- Equivalent ACT Score: 16
While a 16 ACT score, like a 720 score, isn’t high compared to national averages and percentiles, it still qualifies a student for admission to certain colleges, especially those with open admissions policies or lower average ACT scores among their admitted students.
Should I Submit a 720 SAT Score?
If you’ve scored a 720 on the SAT, you might be wondering whether or not to submit your score to colleges. This decision hinges on a few key factors, including the range of scores typically accepted by your college of choice, your academic profile, and the holistic nature of the admissions process.
Consider College Requirements
Certain colleges are more likely to consider a 720 score. For instance, open admission colleges, community colleges, and some smaller public and private colleges may welcome such a score. However, more competitive institutions such as MIT or Yale generally have higher score requirements.
Holistic Admissions
Many colleges today apply a holistic review process to their admissions decisions. This means they consider all aspects of a prospective student’s application, not just test scores. Consequently, standout GPAs, exceptional extracurricular involvements, strong recommendation letters, or compelling personal statements can potentially offset a lower SAT score.
Academic Profile
Your overall academic profile also plays a role. If you have a high GPA, then a lower SAT score might be less harmful to your chances. On the other hand, if your score is consistent with your academic performance, it might be more of a concern. If you’re significantly outperformed in the SAT by your classmates, colleges may question your ability to thrive in an intense academic environment.
720 SAT Score Colleges
With a 720 score, it’s crucial to target schools where your score is within the middle 50% of accepted students. Some colleges where a 720 score might be accepted include:
- Bowling Green State University: Average SAT Score – 1070
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania: Average SAT Score – 1010
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke: Average SAT Score – 990
Remember, these are just examples, and every college’s admissions decision will take into account factors beyond just the SAT score.
720 SAT Score Scholarships
A 720 score can also potentially qualify you for certain scholarships. While higher scores often yield more scholarship opportunities, you might still be eligible for some awards, primarily those not heavily focused on academic achievement. Examples might include:
- Community Service Scholarships: Many organizations reward students who’ve made significant impacts in their communities.
- Essay Contests: Some scholarships are based on written essays.
- Leadership Awards: These scholarships honor students who’ve shown excellent leadership skills.
Exploring all available scholarship opportunities and investing time in applications can potentially yield funding for your education, despite a lower SAT score.
Tips to Improve Your 720 SAT Score
If you’re still in the process of applying to colleges, consider these tips to enhance your SAT score:
- Create a Study Schedule: Regular, focused study periods can maximize your learning.
- Seek Resources: Utilize free and paid resources, like Khan Academy SAT prep, College Board practice tests, or hire an SAT tutor.
- Understand Your Weaknesses: Focus more attention on the areas where you need the most improvement.
- Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the exam layout, timing, and the types of questions.
Remember, improvement requires consistency, so keep practicing and reviewing to grasp the subjects better.
Conclusion
In summary, a 720 score, while lower than the national average, doesn’t completely shut the door on college admissions or scholarships. While more competitive colleges might be out of reach, many other colleges can consider students with such a score, especially if they have a strong overall application. If unsatisfied with the score, there is always room for improvement, and numerous resources available to help achieve that. Irrespective of the score, do keep in mind that the SAT is just one component of your college application. Other elements, like your coursework, extracurricular activities, and essays, also play a significant role in the admissions process.