The Importance of Standardized Testing in College Admissions
Standardized testing has been a crucial component of the college admission process for many years. However, over the past two decades, the requirements and philosophy of admissions testing have undergone significant changes. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this change by limiting access to testing opportunities.
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While some colleges and universities still require standardized test scores for admissions consideration, most higher education institutions in the United States have made testing optional or eliminated it as a factor in their review process. It is essential to note that standardized testing is only one factor contributing to an applicant’s overall file. The bulk of the quantitative weight and emphasis in most review processes is placed on a student’s high school academic transcript and the rigor of their program of study. While test scores can serve as an additional quantitative data point in a student’s application file, they do not guarantee admission or exclude a student from admission on their own. If submitted, they are just one piece of a much larger, nuanced application file.
Types of Standardized Tests for College Admissions
High school students have a variety of standardized tests to navigate, each with their own specific structure, timing, and purpose. For instance, the Preliminary SAT 10 (PSAT10) is geared towards sophomores and helps them familiarize themselves with the SAT’s content, format, and timing. The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT) is designed to assist juniors in preparing for the SAT, while also identifying the top scholars via the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
The SAT, which is usually taken by juniors and seniors, is a crucial part of college applications. The SAT is divided into two sections – evidence-based reading, writing, and math – each of which is worth up to 800 points, resulting in a maximum composite score of 1600.
Apart from these, there is the PreACT, designed for sophomores, which provides insight into a student’s academic and career planning needs. The ACT, taken by juniors and seniors, covers four curriculum-based subject areas. Then there are Advanced Placement (AP) Exams, the International Baccalaureate (IB), IBÂ Diploma Programme (DP), and the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), each with its distinct focus and structure.
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TESTING TIMELINE
As a high school student, planning for college admissions testing is an essential piece of preparation and is sometimes used as part of the holistic review process. Here are some testing tips for each year:
Taking the PSAT 8/9 is an excellent way to assess your skills and understand your strengths and weaknesses. You can then focus on areas where you need improvement. You can track your progress by taking the PSAT 10, PSAT/NMSQT, and/or SAT.
Some high schools offer the PSAT and PreACT to sophomores. If your school doesn’t offer these tests, you can find online and hard-copy practice test booklets. It is generally not recommended for sophomores to take an official SAT or ACT, but you can consult your high school counselor if you’re considering it.
Many high school students take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of their junior year. Most students start official college admissions testing in the spring of their junior year, typically between March and June. Avoid taking multiple rounds of standardized testing during the spring of your junior year. You can test again in your senior year if necessary. Some colleges also adopt test-optional or test-free models, so discussing this with your high school counselor and checking admissions websites for their specific policies is important.
Some students choose to retake the SAT or ACT during the fall of their senior year. Tests are usually offered in August, September, October, November, and December, depending on your preferred exam. Be mindful of your application deadlines and align your testing schedule accordingly, as some institutions may not accept test scores after their admissions deadline.
TESTING REQUIREMENTS
Amid the outbreak of COVID-19, many new testing terminologies have emerged. Understanding the standardized testing policies for college admissions is crucial as it can significantly impact the admission process. However, owing to the pandemic, testing requirements have been modified. It is important to note that standardized testing is just one of the factors colleges consider when making admission decisions. Other factors include high school grades, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and essays. Maintaining a balance between these factors is crucial to increase the chances of acceptance into a college.
