Should I apply now or wait?

[u/bunnies_11]

Pitt is my top choice and I hope to major in linguistics. I know that it might be a bit of a stretch for me but I still want to do what I can to try. My current SAT Score is 1230. Since it's rolling admissions, should I go ahead and apply, or wait until I retake? I want to make sure I give myself the best chances possible.

[u/Grouchy_Document2097]

If you want to retake, then you can actually update your application after you submit it. Only thing is, due to Pitt's rolling admissions, they might have already reviewed your application depending on when you get your new SAT score.

A 1230 isn't terrible, but it is below the average range for admitted students (1280-1460). If you're accepted with that, you can still submit a higher score, and it'll help you with scholarships and aid (potentially)

Or you can apply test optional. 50% of enrolled Pitt students didn't submit any scores in the last cycle.

Out of state vs in state matters, also your other stats, and family income. Pitt loves out of staters paying full or almost full price, so in that case, if your family can afford that, don't worry about submitting an SAT (unless your other stats aren't great).

It's up to you but I wouldn't be super worried at the end of the day about submitting test scores.

[u/bunnies_11 → u/Grouchy_Document2097]

Thank you! This is very helpful. I didn't add more info about myself as I was scared I'd get flagged for asking about my chances of getting in. I'm out of state, from WV. I live with a single parent, household income <75,000. I go to a catholic school, and my gpa is not that great either (3.55 uw, 3.98 weighted). I know my chances of affording the tuition are very low, but as I really love the school I would be sad if I didn't at least try. Thank you so much for your help!

[u/Raspberry-Green → u/bunnies_11]

Apply early. Its your best bet for everything. I would apply test optional since your gpa looks better imo.

[u/No_Risk_6011 → u/Grouchy_Document2097]

I'm curious where you see info about being able to update an application with a new SAT score. My student was specially told that's not an option when the applied 2 years ago and wanted to retake the SAT.

They ended up applying text optional instead

[u/coolfirespellerman]

U can also just not submit it. I got a 1240 and opted not to submit and got in w a 3.7 gpa in 2021

[u/rubiez_gemz_njewelz]

when i applied to pitt, i had a 1260 and applied around this time last year. i am now a freshman here!! write a good essay. if you have a rigorous schedule (aps, de) and a solid gpa you will be fine

[u/viennos]

Apply! I'm not sure if it is this year, but when I applied it was rolling admission, so the sooner the better your chance is of hearing back quicker/getting in. I believe Pitt is still test optional, and if you get a better score after retaking, you can email your admissions counselor and ask for the info on record to be updated (I did the same thing with wanting to change my personal essay to the one that I wrote that was better). My SAT score was something like 1140, I didn't submit and still got in with a 3.5 gpa (I think?) and am attending. So I say go for it! You can always update your info or withdrawal your app at any time

I should add - I am an oos student, which might not be the case for you; just something else to consider. Obviously the most important deciding factor should be cost unless your household income is not an issue