How much do test scores influence the admission decision?

SAT/ACT test scores are just one of the many factors that are taken into consideration when applications are reviewed for admission.

In all, we look at:

• Grades and level of difficulty of courses
• SAT/ACT test score(s)
• Counselor evaluation form
• Essay
• List of activities and honors achieved

If you're looking at test scores and wondering how to maximize your strength as an applicant, my advice is to be sure that all of your test scores (if taken multiple times) are sent to UM. UM uses the best/highest composite score among all your tests taken when we review applications for admission.

Another helpful piece of advice is to ask other colleges you're considering whether or not they look at your best composite score. This will help you decide what scores to send to what college when you apply.

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More advice about letters of recommendation...

From someone who is on our mailing list, they offered this advice:

Give the to the teacher's of your favorite(best grade) subjects...they are probably the most likely to give you a positive letter!

I agree. You want to be sure to ask for letters from people who you know will say great things about you!

QUESTIONS I'VE COLLECTED:

WHAT IF I'M HOMESCHOOLED and my mom wants to write me a letter?

My advice: As a homeschooled applicant, your parent is welcome to write a letter of recommendation since they also serve as your counselor.

We will accept a letter from her, even if she's your mom!We would also recommend that you ask another non-relative to write you a letter of recommendation -- maybe someone you've worked with, an employer, or someone in your community that you've had some positive experiences with.

CAN OTHER PEOPLE WRITE A LETTER FOR ME?

Question: im 100 percent to attend to UM I have a question, every saturday I attend to a programn that is call the open bound programm in florida national college so i want to know if they also can write me a recommendation letter

My advice: You're welcome to have someone from the program(s) you're involved in to write you a letter of recommendation. Just be sure to send in the required letter from your guidance counselor.

WHO SHOULD I ASK FOR A LETTER AND HOW MANY SHOULD I HAVE?

Question from morgan: I have been considering who to ask for letters of recommendation, but I am not sure who to ask. There are many people who could give me great recommendations, but I am not sure who to ask. Is it bad to have too many letters of recommendation, even if they are all good? How many letters of recommendation should I have? Thank you for your suggestions and help.

My advice: You should aim for quality letters over quantity. I think that having 2-3 handy for various applications is a good idea -- but you may need more depending on the application. You should try to get your list down to 2-3 people who know you very well and ask if they wouldn't mind writing a letter on your behalf.

SHOULD I WAIT UNTIL I APPLY TO SEND THE LETTER?

Question from Larry: Yes, I was wondering if you have to have a letter yet if you have not filled out an application form yet? I am planning on attending Miami. Do I have them send it in now or wait until i send in my application, and if so how many days do I wait until i send the letters behind that. Thankyou, Larry

My advice: You might want to hold on sending your letter(s) until your application file is open. That way, we'll easily be able to identify the letters and file them to your application. You don't have to wait long after applying. It is a good idea to at least be sure the application is filed before you send more materials.

WILL I NEED MORE THAN ONE LETTER?

Question: Will more than one letter of recommendation be needed when applying?

My advice: As far as the University of Miami is concerned, we only require one letter from your guidance counselor. You're welcome to send up to 2-3, but please be sure to at least send one for your UM file.

KEEP 'EM COMING! All great questions. Your advice is welcome too!