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Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Importance of 1270 PSAT score?

Hello! I just received my PSAT scores and got a 1270. Is this considered a solid score? How important are PSAT scores when it comes to college admissions? Should I be focused more on my actual SAT scores?

10 months ago

A 1270 is a good PSAT score, as it falls above the national average (which is around 1000 to 1050). While it's a solid starting point, do keep in mind that the PSAT mainly serves as a useful practice tool and potential qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Program (if you score in the top percentile of scorers in your state).

Regarding college admissions, PSAT scores are not directly considered. Admissions decisions primarily focus on your actual SAT (or ACT) scores, along with your grades, course rigor, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters. And even when it comes to the actual SAT (or ACT), it's important to remember that standardized test scores are only one facet of your college application, and admissions officers will evaluate your application holistically.

That said, your PSAT score can give you a general idea of your SAT potential. To convert your PSAT to an SAT equivalent, your 1270 would roughly translate to an 1360 on the SAT. If you're targeting higher scores for the colleges you're interested in, focusing on your SAT preparation would be beneficial. Practice diligently, use study materials, and consider taking prep courses or working with a tutor to boost your score. CollegeVine's blog is one free resource that contains a range of test-prep posts, such as this one: https://blog.collegevine.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-sat-score/

Finally, be sure to stay informed about each college's specific testing requirements and policies, as some universities have implemented test-optional or test-blind admissions. For detailed guidance on how to navigate these policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/

In summary, while a 1270 PSAT score is respectable and speaks well of your overall potential during the college process, it's best to concentrate on improving your SAT scores (and other aspects of your college application) to maximize your chances of success. Good luck!

10 months ago

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.