Testing, testing, 1, 2, 3

A high school senior, whom we recently met at a college fair, told us that he was taking the SAT on Saturday, December 4.

“Why so late in your senior year? Is this your first time taking it?” we asked.

“No, I took it already, but I want to see if I can improve my score,” he replied.

“Did you study the last time? Have you looked at what questions you got wrong, and worked to improve those areas where you need help?”

“No.”

This is often the case with many high school students. They don’t study at all for the SAT or ACT, since they don’t look at standardized tests as something to study for – instead, they treat the SAT and ACT like an IQ test. That’s the wrong approach! You can study for these exams and you can improve your score.

While the SAT and ACT make up only one piece of the application, it’s an important piece. These tests standardize all applicants. Your GPA of 3.7 might be very different from another student’s 3.7. You went to different high schools, with different classes, and different grading systems. But you both took the same SAT.

This makes standardized tests important, particularly for more selective colleges. Here’s a tip: it’s best to take standardized exams early enough in high school that you can learn your strengths and weaknesses – and then improve upon them the next time you take the test.

The next SAT you can register for is on January 22, and you must register – without late fees – by December 23. Juniors, are you ready to take the SAT or SAT Subject Tests in January? If not, fear not – there are also exams offered in March, May, and June. (And the next ACTs are offered in February, April, and June.) Visit the SAT and ACT sites to register.

Plan ahead and stay organized. You’ll be a much better college applicant if you do!