Standardized testing is like the “Monday morning” of the college application process–we all dread it coming and wish we could skip it altogether.

Students are anxious about all of it:  the essays, the applications, financial aid, etc–but the test is the part over which they have the least amount of control. This, by far, is one of the top stressors of college-bound students.

Educators would normally have some great advice as to which test is best for certain situations, but this year we are all being particularly vague.

Why?

Beginning in March 2016, the format of the SAT will change and scoring guidelines for the ACT writing test has changed. Take some time to review these graphs from the Step Up to College workbook to educate yourself:

 

As you see there has been a huge overhaul with the SAT (the new one is in March) and as with anything new there are kinks to get out.  The ACT made some changes to the scoring for the writing section, but the core of the test has remained constant.

Your student may benefit from taking both tests to determine which is a better fit. I recommend taking the SAT in March and also take the ACT in June. If your student chooses to retest in the Fall, they should take the test that feels more comfortable.

Students should not take tests back-to-back (i.e., taking a test in May and in June).  It takes a few weeks to get the scores back and see where improvements need to be made.  If students cannot problem-solve and correct their weak points between tests, they run the risk of receiving similar scores on both tests.

 

If my future were determined just by my performance on a standardized test, I wouldn’t be here. I guarantee you that.” -Michelle Obama

 

 Frequently Asked Questions

 

What subjects should be taken to increase scores?

Students should at least be enrolled in 11th grade English (typically American Literature) and have taken Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry (it’s okay if they are currently enrolled in one of these since students take it towards the end of the school year).  It is very helpful if students have taken a higher level math such as Pre-Calculus, Calculus or Trigonometry.

What if my student doesn’t test well?

There are a number of students who don’t test well for various reasons.  Some experience test anxiety, have not been exposed to the material, or have little or no experience taking standardized tests. Most students take the test twice and some take them three times.

If your student is anxious or has not had the success that they desire with testing, consider applying to a few test optional schools.  There are over 800 schools nationwide that do not require test scores. Click here for a comprehensive listing via FairTest.org. These schools typically require students to either submit an essay responding to specific questions or submit a graded writing sample from a teacher.

Students may also request an interview at their top choice schools (regardless of test score).  This will allow the college admissions officer to see the student and not a number or a piece of paper.  They will be able to see the students personality, thought processes, educational goals, etc.  A student can take that opportunity to explain why they don’t test well and highlight other attributes that they have.

What should be done with the test scores?

When submitting scores, you only have a short time-frame to do so.  Most schools accept scores directly from a transcript, but there are many that require scores be sent directly from the testing company.  Students should predetermine four schools to send their scores in order to not waste the score report.  If windows are missed, a fee is required to send reports (usually about $11-$14).

Also, please note that most schools take the highest score in each category from all of the tests the student has taken (i.e. 500 verbal from a March test, the 450 Math score from a May test and the 550 writing score from October). Taking the writing section may not be necessary, so make your student looks at the requirements for each school prior to registering for a test.

 

If you think dealing with issues like worthiness and authenticity and vulnerability are not worthwhile because there are more pressing issues, like the bottom line or attendance or standardized test scores, you are sadly, sadly mistaken. It underpins everything.” -Brene Brown

 

What if the test is not affordable?

SAT Fee Waiver or ACT fee waivers are available for students:

• who receive free or reduced lunch
• meet low-income requirements
• who have experienced a recent financial hardship

Each student will receive up to two (2) waivers for each testing service.  In addition, the SAT will provide two (2) additional waivers for any subject tests that a student takes.  The waivers can be obtained from the school counseling office.

Once a student uses the waivers for the test, they will also receive at least four (4) waivers for their applications.  If they need more, they can speak with their school counselor.  Some states have an association that provides additional waivers.

Where can I receive Test Prep?

Course are available at local community colleges or a service like Kaplan or the Princeton Review.

There are options for free online prep for both tests. For the ACT, students need to use a fee waiver to register for the test. For the SAT, students need to have taken a PSAT or SAT. More detailed information is listed in the related articles section below.

 

Good Luck!

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Related Articles:

Scores for new PSAT are finally out. What to know about them (and what they mean for redesigned SAT)

The Ins, Outs of Applying to Test-Optional Colleges

New Harvard report proposes major changes to college admissions: Get the details

SAT vs ACT
Should I take the ACT or the New SAT?

Free ACT online prep for Low-income students
Free SAT online prep