Hey folks! I'm a junior right now and my dream school is Stony Brook. I'm just a tad bit stressed out about the SATs because it's getting closer to crunch time. Now, I know that the SAT isn't the be-all and end-all, but I'd like to know how much focus should I put into studying for it to get into Stony Brook? What did the admitted students score on their SATs? How can I balance my SAT prep with schoolwork and ECs without losing my mind? Thanks in advance!
Hi, great to see you planning ahead! You're indeed correct that the SAT, while important, isn't the only factor considered in your application. That said, knowing the typical academic profile of admitted students can provide a sense of comfort while you're preparing. According to the most recent data, the mid-50% SAT range for admitted students at Stony Brook is 1330-1470. This means if your score falls within or above this range, you're on track. Remember, though, there are certainly admitted students with scores below, as admissions take into account various factors including your coursework, GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and more.
When it comes to balancing SAT prep, schoolwork, and ECs, the key is to set a practical study schedule that doesn't interfere drastically with your pre-existing commitments. Prioritizing is key here. Allocate time for a specific part of the test each week and slowly build upon existing knowledge rather than try to cram a lot in a short frame of time.
Work on practice tests, reviewing mistakes closely, and using resources like Khan Academy or similar platforms for targeted improvement. Also, take care of yourself, remember to sleep, eat well, and take breaks when needed. All-time grinding can actually hinder your performance. So find your balance in all aspects, and remember that the SAT is one aspect of many which will shape your application. Good luck in your preparations!
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.