Low SAT scores

Hello, I am currently a sophomore at a target school. My dream job is to work at Bain, but I was wondering (also worried) if my SAT score will prevent me from pursuing such path. Just to provide you with a summary of my achievements:

  • SAT Score 2180 (Math 800/CR 660/WR 720)
  • SAT II Math Level 2 800
  • GPA 3.8ish
  • Served as UN peacekeeper in Africa (Not a U.S. veteran)
  • Majoring in Statistics w/ concentration in Business
  • National Merit Finalist
  • Ethnicity: Asian

Looking forward to others' comments. Thanks!

 

These are not low scores. Sure there are plenty of applicants who will have better scores but frankly you'll be in the top 30% of applicants regardless. Getting in is not a question of good SAT scores only however, your GPA,, your major, and and showing interest will matter. Your math score is excellent obviously. Your CR is on the lower side, so maybe you should focus on your communication skills in your first interview. That's said I would spend more time practicing case interviews, and showing to Bain events when they come to your school. Bonus point for you if you set up informal interviews with alums 3-4 weeks before Bain show up on campus. Overall don't worry about your SAT scores, do well at school, take on leadership roles., and polish your networking skills and you will get interviews. To get in, obviously you will need to also do well in your case interviews.

 
Best Response

Yeah, I wouldn't worry too much with your profile. From my personal experience (I was in IB, not consulting), anything around or above a 1400 between math and CR is fine. They will more heavily weight the fact you attend a target school and have a solid GPA vs. what your SAT score was while in high school.

I don't remember where I exactly learned this, but there is a direct correlation between your SAT score and your first year GPA in college, but it isn't a causal relationship (people with low SAT scores can do well in school and vice versa)... meaning your SAT score will not define you for the rest of your life and potential employers will look more toward your GPA and school pedigree at the onset.

 

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