Will the Cutoffs for DASA 2017-18 Increase Post an Increase in Minimum SAT Score?

Dominant Admissions System for Admission (DASA) 2017-18 saw a notable increase in the minimum required SAT score for qualifying, raising it from 1440 to 1800. This significant change raises the question: will the cutoffs for the upcoming DASA admissions increase as a result? While the overall scenario remains relatively unchanged, certain trends are expected to shift. Let's delve into the details and analyze the impact on various branches of study.

Current Context

Just two years ago, the minimum SAT score requirement for DASA was adjusted to 1800 from 1440. This increase reflected a growing emphasis on academic rigor and the need for a consistent standard across all applicants. Despite this increase, the overall cutoff for the DASA 2017-18 admissions might not rise in the near future. This stability is due to several underlying factors, including the need to balance accessibility with academic excellence.

Predicted Impact on Cutoffs

The primary consequence of the increased minimum SAT score is expected to be a higher cutoff for less popular branches, where students might struggle to secure admission with scores below 1800. These branches are characterized by lower competition and therefore, the cutoffs may experience a more significant increase. On the other hand, for highly sought-after branches such as Computer Science (CS), Information Technology (IT), and Electrical and Electronics Engineering (ECE), the cutoffs are unlikely to be impacted significantly. These branches attract a diverse range of applicants, each vying for the same limited spots, and the increase in the minimum SAT score does not drastically alter the competitive landscape.

Expected Shifts in Score Distributions

It is anticipated that there will be a notable shift in the distribution of scores in the 1800-2000 range. The increase in the minimum SAT score is expected to lead to a higher number of applicants with scores in this bracket. Consequently, the cutoff for these scores will be competitive, indicating a higher demand among students for these scores. On the other hand, students with scores above 2200 might face a different scenario. Although they possess the necessary academic credentials, they might not secure their first preferences due to the already high demand for top branches. Consequently, it is predicted that a smaller number of 'y' students, who have scores above 2200 and could not secure a preferred spot, will opt for less competitive branches originally aimed at the more numerically advantageous 'x' students.

Conclusion and Outlook

The scenario of DASA 2017-18 admissions will remain largely similar to previous years, with only numerical changes expected. For highly sought-after branches, the cutoff may remain relatively stable, while less popular branches are likely to see an increase in their cutoffs. The redistribution of students based on their scores will further exacerbate the competitive dynamics, but the overall trends remain consistent with what has been observed in previous admissions cycles.