I love USC and really want to go there, but my SAT score is pretty average (around 1200). Is it still worth applying, or should I focus on improving my score?
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Getting into USC with a 1200 SAT score presents a challenge, as the university's middle 50% range for accepted students typically falls between 1330-1530. However, your SAT score is just one component of your application, and USC takes a holistic approach to admissions decisions.
Taking steps to improve your SAT score would strengthen your application, but don't let an average score stop you from applying if USC is your dream school. The university considers multiple factors including your GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. A compelling personal story, unique talents, or exceptional achievements in other areas can help offset a lower test score.
Consider that USC receives over 70,000 applications annually, making it highly selective with an acceptance rate around 12%. If you decide to apply with your current score, focus on making other aspects of your application stand out. Write engaging essays that showcase your personality and demonstrate why you're a great fit for USC's community. Highlight leadership roles, community service, or special talents that set you apart from other applicants.
If time permits before application deadlines, preparing for and retaking the SAT could improve your chances. Even a 100-point increase could significantly impact your application's competitiveness. Additionally, USC accepts superscored results, meaning they'll consider your highest section scores from different test dates. You might also consider taking the ACT as an alternative, as some students perform better on one test versus the other.
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