This might be an odd one but I'm considering joining the military straight after high school, then using the GI Bill for college. Say I take the SATs in my senior year, how long are those scores valid and acceptable? Can I use them while applying a few years down the line?
Sure, your SAT scores don't technically expire. They will be accessible on your College Board account indefinitely, and you can send them to schools at any time. It's important, however, to check individual colleges' policies. While most colleges will accept older SAT scores, some might prefer scores from the past few years to be more indicative of your current academic abilities, especially if it's been several years since you last took the test.
Additionally, remember that requirements can vary significantly between colleges. Some schools may not require test scores at all, or may have alternative criteria for non-traditional students like military veterans. For example, some colleges will prioritize work-history, military experience, personal essays, and recommendations.
Finally, your experience in the military could greatly strengthen your application, highlighting qualities like discipline, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability, making SAT scores less of a focal point. Remember to provide details of your military service in your application and how it shaped your personal and academic goals.
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