How important is my EBRW SAT score in college admissions?

Hi all, just got my SAT scores back and I did pretty well on the Math section but not as great on EBRW. How much weight do colleges place on the EBRW portion of the SAT? Should I be concerned and possibly retake the test? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! Congratulations on completing your SAT! The EBRW (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) portion of the SAT is important in college admissions, as it demonstrates your critical reading and writing skills. Colleges typically consider both the EBRW and Math sections to assess a student's overall academic ability.

The weight placed on your EBRW score can vary depending on the schools you are applying to and the programs you're interested in. For example, if you are applying to engineering or STEM-focused programs, your Math score might be given more weight than your EBRW score. However, a strong EBRW score is still valuable in showcasing your ability to read and analyze complex texts, which is an important skill in any field of study.

If your EBRW score is significantly lower than the average scores of admitted students at your target schools, it might be a good idea to consider retaking the test. However, keep in mind that colleges also evaluate your application holistically, taking into account your transcripts, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Your EBRW score is just one piece of the larger puzzle.

Before deciding on whether or not to retake the test, research the average SAT scores for the colleges on your list and consider your overall application profile. If you still feel uncertain, you could also reach out to an admissions counselor or a college advisor for guidance. Best of luck!