Trying to balance my time effectively?how much weight does Brown University put on GPA versus SAT scores? Should I focus more on keeping my grades up or on getting the perfect SAT score?
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Brown University considers your academic performance holistically, with GPA typically carrying more weight than standardized test scores in the admissions process. Your grade point average provides a multi-year view of your academic abilities, work ethic, and consistency, making it particularly valuable to admissions officers at Brown.
While SAT scores remain important at Brown University, they serve more as a validation of your academic performance rather than a primary deciding factor. The university recognizes that your GPA demonstrates long-term academic commitment and ability to manage challenging coursework over time. Your grades in rigorous courses, especially in core academic subjects and advanced placement classes, tell a more complete story about your potential for success at Brown.
When balancing your time between maintaining your GPA and preparing for the SAT, prioritize your coursework first. A strong upward trend in grades or consistent excellent performance in challenging classes will generally be more impressive to Brown's admissions committee than a perfect SAT score paired with mediocre grades. Additionally, Brown has adopted a test-optional policy, reinforcing that standardized test scores are not the most critical component of your application.
The ideal approach is to maintain your focus on achieving excellence in your classes while dedicating reasonable time to SAT preparation. Consider spending about 70-80% of your academic effort on coursework and the remaining 20-30% on standardized test preparation. This balance allows you to demonstrate both strong academic performance and solid test-taking abilities, maximizing your chances of admission to Brown University.
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