How important are standardized test scores compared to other pieces of the application?
The degree to which standardized test scores are important varies with the college or university. If there is any overall trend, it is that the scores are declining in importance and are looked at as one piece of the pie. There are many colleges which are SAT/ACT optional, and these schools have decided that they get a very accurate picture of the candidate using the high school transcript, essays and recommendations. I have on occasion steered families toward SAT/ACT optional colleges when the student is not a solid test-taker. In contrast, I have recommended that some students submit their scores even when they’re not required because they portray the student in a favorable light. Another item worth mentioning is the ability to test well on subject tests. This also can look very good for a candidate, and there are plenty of candidates out there who feel far more comfortable with this type of test. NYU, for example, recently instituted a change and will allow three SAT Subject Tests in lieu of the SAT or ACT.
It depends on the college or university. As a general rule the larger the institution the more weight is given to the SAT/ACT (as well as GPA). A smaller institution will typically focus on a student’s activities, essay, and maybe an interview. Most colleges and universities will outline what they evaluate in their decision making process. So you should be able to get a sense as to the importance they place on standardized test scores. If you are concerned that your scores don’t reflect your ability and/or potential look for colleges that make submission of standardized test scores optional.
Standardized test scores are important because they are a standardized measure that all students can be compared to. With that said, that is what they are, Know the school you are going to, know their score range, and do your best to do well on standardized tests. Yet, it is also just one part of the admissions application that helps compare you in a quantitative way to other students. Make sure not to only focus on the SAT or ACT and forget about the other things in life such as student organizations and clubs, sports, and jobs, volunteer work, and all other aspects of life that represent you as an individual and student. Someone who isn’t just a number but a complex individual.
Every school has their own scale of priorities, some public, some unknown. Just do the beat you can, and don’t only apply to colleges that are a reach based on past numbers.
The importance of standardized test scores compared to other pieces of the application will differ from one school to another. Colleges and universities want to admit students who will be able to work successfully in the academic environments of those institutions and who will contribute positively to the social and extracurricular culture of the institutions. Schools are typically looking, therefore, for students who have worked successfully in challenging high school courses. They are also interested in how a student has contributed to his school and community in the areas of sports, music, student government, community service, or other extracurricular areas. When essays are required, it is hoped that they will reveal more about the student, as a person – his/her values, interests, and aspirations, aside from the data and scores which appear in other parts of the application. Of course, the levels of expectation in all of these areas will vary, depending on the selectivity of the institution. Standardized test scores are one more piece of the puzzle. They are required by some schools who see them as an indication of future academic potential. Following are some of the ways in which schools may view standardized testing. – Some schools have decided not to require the SAT or ACT for admission from either domestic or international students because they feel that the tests are culturally biased and not representative of a student’s potential for successful college performance. – Some schools require the SAT or ACT of domestic, but not of international students, instead requiring a test of English-language proficiency, such as the TOEFL or IELTS (See more below). – Some schools require the SAT or ACT of all applicants, but have a different range of expectation for non-native English speakers than for native English speakers. These schools will often have programs established to help non-native English speakers to make a satisfactory language adjustment once they have been admitted to the college. – Some schools require the SAT or ACT of all applicants and make very little distinction between the range of expected scores for native English speakers and non-native English speakers, feeling that a student needs to have a certain level of English proficiency in order to work successfully at those institutions. – Most schools ask international students who have not been educated in English-language high school programs for several years to submit the results of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) as part of their applications.
Most colleges would agree that the importance of test scores is not as important as your GPA, academic course load and class rank. Some colleges are test optional colleges and you can submit your test scores only if you want to (or if you believe it will help your Admissions Profile look stronger). Although test scores are important and many colleges look at test scores above extracurricular activities and essays, it is more important to keep your grades up and take a rigorous course load. If you have strong test scores but weak grades, the Admissions Office will assume that you do not work up to your potential and this can hurt your file. In other words, make your grades a priority, but work hard to make sure your test scores reflect your potential as well.
Although many colleges are joining the ranks of Test Optional (allowing students to submit material and information in lieu of test scores), most colleges and universities that you will consider still require standardized test scores. For many, these scores are second to grade point average in selection factors, but for some (particularly the private colleges), a more holistic evaluation will weigh the test scores in context with the rigor of your high school courses, the strength of your academic performance, the depth and focus of your involvement in non-academic activities and the character you have developed over the high school years. It would be a mistake to think that test scores do not matter, so prepare well, do your best and find a college that will appreciate you for who you are and what your experience has been.
The three biggest variables for admission are your course of studies (honors, A.P., I.B.), your grade point average, and your standardized test scores. After that, teacher recommendations, your personal statement, and activities come into consideration.
That depends on the college. It is important that you ask that when visiting or interviewing at a school. There are schools that do not look at scores for the purpose of admissions. a list of these schools may be found online at www.fairtest.org.
It depends on the college. Some colleges, such as the University of California system and the California State University system use a formulaic approach that tends to be SAT or ACT heavy. Some campuses do not use the SAT or ACT scores at all in the process…and others use the scores as part of a holistic process that considers many factors. In general, many campuses consider standardized test scores as an affirmation of grades…because grades alone may not be entirely representative of achievement and/or potential. Students need to be aware of the average test score ranges of accepted students to particular colleges in which they are interested in order to apply wisely and broadly enough.
Nothing induces greater fear among college applicants than standardized tests and yet increasingly they are less about the applicant than about the school’s interests. Does a 20 point SAT difference mean one student is more ready for college than another? Of course not, but the higher average will make for better marketing on the school’s end. Ultimately, if a school requires standardized tests then the higher your scores are the better, and while they are often used to make determinations about merit scholarship awards, past a certain level they say little about your preparation for college. Admittedly high score can torpedo your application laic if your grades do not measure up, for there are few things worse than beings seen as an underachiever. In the end however, standardized test scores are simply one of the many factors that schools consider while making decisions that best serve their institutional interests.
It depends on the college. Some colleges, such as the University of California system and the California State University system use a formulaic approach that tends to be SAT or ACT heavy. Some campuses do not use the SAT or ACT scores at all in the process…and ithers use the scores as part of a holistic process that considers many factors. In general, many campuses consider standardized test scores as an affirmation of grades…because grades alone may not be entirely representative of achievement and/or potential. Students need to be aware of the average test score ranges of accepted students to particular colleges in which they are interested in order to apply wisely and broadly enough.
That depends on the admissions criteria at each university or college – did you know there are over 15 categories? Students are presented this information when they work with our office!
The significance of standardized test scores varies from university to university. At the highest level, great standardized test scores may have less weight than you imagine (for example, students with perfect SAT scores are denied admission to Harvard). More broadly, most colleges and universities agree that academic performance in high school is a stronger prediction of academic success than standardized test scores. Standardized test scores enable colleges and universities to compare students from different high schools. This is particularly important given the high variability in course offerings and grading.
It depends upon the college. It is true that scores are very, very important at some universities while other colleges use it as only one of many factors in the process.
This largely depends on where the student wants to attend college. Each school has a different idea of what constitutes an acceptable score. Community colleges don’t usually require that students take these exams, and scores for students attending community or junior colleges matter very little. With that said, students planning to attend a community college should still take the SAT/ACT, as they may be required if and when the student transfers to a larger college to obtain a bachelors degree. The SAT/ACT scores are obviously important pieces in the application, however, I believe that many times, students stress on significance of these scores, and overlook other vital components which could compensate for less than perfect scores.
The GPA on your transcript will always be the most important piece of information that colleges look at. That GPA and the grades you received over 4 years of work in high school tell colleges the most as to whether you will succeed at their school or not. The second most important piece of information is the strength of the courses that you take. Colleges really like to see that you took that next level course, if you could, if you did well in the previous course. SAT or ACT tests will be third in the order of importance. After the SAT’s it really depends on the college. Some may put more weight on the essay or interview but that depends on the college. If athletics or a special activity are involved, that may affect the college’s decision as well.
The standardized exams are typically a balance to the high school grades, rank and classes for schools that use an admission index to determine your probability of success in the first year at that college. Many colleges run a series of analyses that determine who students with certain scores from certain section of the ACT or SAT exam do at their respective school. For example, an engineering college at a particular school may know that 98% of the applicants with X score on the math section of the standardized test will be successful in completing their degree. Therefore, they will use that score cut off as one indication for admissibility to the school. However, simply because you achieved that cut off score does not mean you are admitted. Then the competitiveness of the application pool may cause you to fall out of the mix as well. These scores can also prove helpful for a college for course placement for their admitted student population as well. So you can see that the score are used in different ways and those ways vary by institution. Therefore, the scores are not less nor no more important that the grades, course selection, class rank or overall GPA. I would point out however, that these scores can be more important than the extra curricular activities list, your recommendations or your essay. Let’s face it, the most important thing that an admissions office is trying to determine is your ability to handle the academics at their school. All the essays, activities and letters of recommendation are not going to out way a standardized test score or grades that indicated your inability to succeed at a particular college.
It varies by college. Some state schools require a minimum score for admission others are more flexible. Some colleges are test optional and do not require test scores.
Standardized test scores count less than you think but more than most admissions officers will admit. Your GPA and the rigor of your high school curriculum are the most important parts of your college application. Standardized test scores can also be very important, but are often not quite as important. You can look at Section C of each college’s Common Data Set to see how important standardized test scores are in the admissions process for that particular college. Standardized test scores (as well as other factors) are each assigned a measure of relative importance: either very important, important, considered, or not considered. At test-optional schools, standardized test scores are generally less important. For example, according to its Common Data Set, test-optional Bates College indicates that standardized test scores are “considered.” On the other hand, Stanford University (not test-optional) reports in its Common Data Set that standardized test scores are “very important.” Because standardized test scores of enrolled freshmen are one factor used in determining US News and World Reports college rankings, accepting (and enrolling) students with higher test scores will have a positive effect on a college’s rank. Take your standardized tests seriously and do the best you can. At a minimum, you can take (free) practice tests online to help you prepare.
Most college admissions personnel will tell you that the most important part of your application is your transcript. What you have done over four years carries more weight than four hours on a Saturday. That being said some schools weigh test scores more heavily than others. Large state schools with many applicants may have a formula that they use. Test scores and grades may balance each other out i.e. higher grades could balance lower test scores. Very selective schools often have students with high test scores which makes the playing field even in that regard. Other parts of the application will make a student stand out. Then again quite a few schools are now test optional and look at other factors all together. Submitting test scores may be optional or the student can substitute other types of work in lieu of test scores.
Most college admissions personnel will tell you that the most important part of your application is your transcript. What you have done over four years carries more weight than four hours on a Saturday. That being said some schools weigh test scores more heavily than others. Large state schools with many applicants may have a formula that they use. Test scores and grades may balance each other out i.e. higher grades could balance lower test scores. Very selective schools often have students with high test scores which makes the playing field even in that regard. Other parts of the application will make a student stand out. Then again quite a few schools are now test optional and look at other factors all together. Submitting test scores may be optional or the student can substitute other types of work in lieu of test scores. Francine Schwartz, M.A., LPC, NCC Founder and President Pathfinder Counseling LLC
Standardized test scores are important because they provide colleges with a common standard by which to evaluate your achievement. There is no consistency in the ways teachers grade, so a B at one school might be an A at another; on the SAT or ACT, however, there’s no possibility of inconsistent assessment. Standardized test scores are valuable tools for college admissions officers to use when evaluating applications, but they are only one piece of a larger picture of student achievement. Depending on where you apply, elements like the essay, teacher recommendations, extracurricular accomplishments, and creative portfolio will factor into the decision. High school grades remain the number one most important factor in college admissions. Strive to do well on the SAT or ACT, but even the best scores can’t replace top grades earned in very rigorous classes.
In a world where all things are not equal, standardized test scores are the one way many colleges elect to compare students across the country and the world. Sadly these tests do not always reveal how well a student will do in college. But they are here, and we need to realize that they are one of the top factors many colleges use while evaluating students. So students need to find schools that match their scores, and even find ones that do not require them if testing is not their strength. Please realize that your test scores can improve if you are willing and able to get assistance and study. Believe it or not, reading is also one way all students can improve their scores. We need to find ways to get all students access to test prep, however, to truly level the playing field.
The rigor of your classes and your grades are the most important, but for the colleges that require the standardized tests, the scores are also very important. This does not mean they have a certain cut off, it is more holistic than that as they take all the information into consideration. The testing is the only common factor they have between all applicants, so it is useful to them and important to the extent that they deem it.
Standardized test scores are one of the top ten items that most colleges look for in an applicant. At many colleges, standardized test scores follow a rigorous high school curriculum and strong grades in importance. Having said this, students and parents should realize that a group of over 800 four-year colleges have gone test optional. Often these colleges want something submitted (e.g., a graded paper, an extra essay) in lieu of the SAT I or ACT scores.
Standardized test scores are probably the second most important component of the application after curriculum and grades. While they should not take over your life, spending significant time preparing is necessary to compete at highly selective schools.
Here is my video response to the question.
This varies from school to school, but the College Board does a good job of collecting this information. Check under the “Applying” tab after you have found a school for more information. In general it is still a highly regarding part of the application process, and along with course selection and grades, will play a large role in admissions for most schools.
Standardized Test scores tend to rank second in list of importance for college admissions officers. Grades come first. Test Scores are still important, very important.
Standardized test scores are an integral part of the college application and along with grades, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters determine whether you will be a “yes’, “no”, or “maybe” in the admission process. High schools frequently have different standards for grading, so standardized tests are a way of measuring all applicants against each other using the same test. With that in mind, it is important to start early and adequately familiarize yourself with the various tests. It is extremely helpful to prep for the exam in a way that is within your budget, whether by classes, private tutoring, or self tutoring using a book or online assistance.
Especially in larger colleges, an applicant’s test scores are still very crucial. If a student didn’t do as well as he hoped for, some colleges will overlook that with a great GPA and overall well-rounded application (activities, community service, sports, etc). But, for most students, the higher those test scores, the better!
Although test scores seems to be the source of the most press (and the most anxiety), grades in quality courses are absolutely the most important parts of your application. Students should always prioritize their coursework over SAT prep! I always recommend that students do their test prep during summer vacation if at all possible to avoid conflicts with their regular classes. However, test scores are still important. If you’re in competition with another applicant for admission, a higher test score could tip the scales in your favor. Selective schools may also have score cutoffs that you have to meet to even warrant serious consideration. Finally, good scores may qualify you for scholarships.
Some schools are test optional — which means that you do not need to submit test scores if you feel that test scores do not accurately reflect your academic abilities! For a list of test optional schools, please go to www.fairtest.org. Many public state schools weigh test scores quite heavily — almost on par with grades in college prep courses! Still other schools — really try to look at the totality of your application and view your test scores as just part of the entire picture.
The importance of standardized test scores varies and it should be remembered they are just one of many components of each student’s application. Most schools will review a student’s application in 2 parts: academics and then activities and everything else. SAT or ACT scores basically make up half of the academic component (the other half is GPA), so they are definitely important, but poor scores can always be balanced out by excellent performance in high school and extra-curriculars.
Smaller schools can afford to read applications holistically as they have the time and manpower. That is why it is predominately the small liberal arts colleges that are “test-optional”. When you are applying to large universities, they will be less impressed by your essays and your achievements and more focused on the key question. If accepted can you be a successful student on their campus? Grades are always the most important part of your application. After your grades, your high school curriculum is what matters. They consider very seriously how willing you were to challenge yourself by taking the most advanced classes available at your school. Your test scores are then the most important factor.
Although more schools have joined the “test optional” movement, most colleges and universities continue to require standardized test scores, weighing scores equally along with grades, classes taken, activities, recommendations, essays, etc. Scores are only one piece of the application puzzle, but they are important—and in some situations, essential. Many state universities have automatic admissions standards that use a student’s class rank and scores to determine admission; in these cases, scores are 50% of the equation. Bottom line: Your standardized test scores should reflect your best effort, but don’t ignore the other elements of the application.
According counsellors at Edmond School District high schools, most college admissions focus on more than just exam scores before deciding who to accept. Mountlake Terrance and Edmonds-Woodway high schools offer websites, facebook pages and bulletin boards exclusively listing resources to guide student. Students have access to: ? Dates for when colleges are visiting ? Dates of application deadlines ? Links to scholarships ? Information about apprenticeships and the military ? Events to help students draft college admissions essay ? Dates for college exam Schools offer: ? PSAT ? A practice test for the SAT (juniors & sophomores) Erika Spellman, school –work coordinator at mountlake Terrence High school advises students to plan to take the SAT or ACT at least once during the spring of their junior year so they have time to prepare to test once more during the fall of senior year. On the West Coast, most colleges favour a holistic approach when sorting through applications, the counsellors agreed. Test Scores just a piece of college admissions puzzle According counsellors at Edmond School District high schools, most college admissions focus on more than just exam scores before deciding who to accept. Mountlake Terrance and Edmonds-Woodway high schools offer websites, facebook pages and bulletin boards exclusively listing resources to guide student. Students have access to: ? Dates for when colleges are visiting ? Dates of application deadlines ? Links to scholarships ? Information about apprenticeships and the military ? Events to help students draft college admissions essay ? Dates for college exam Schools offer: ? PSAT ? A practice test for the SAT (juniors & sophomores) Erika Spellman, school –work coordinator at mountlake Terrence High school advises students to plan to take the SAT or ACT at least once during the spring of their junior year so they have time to prepare to test once more during the fall of senior year. On the West Coast, most colleges favour a holistic approach when sorting through applications, the counsellors agreed.
Standardized tests are only one piece of the application puzzle. The original intent was to create a benchmark so that colleges could feel assured that a student who goes to a “name” private school and a student from a large urban public high school could display knowledge “equally”. It is not a perfect system, as we all realize–some people receive tutoring to perform better, some people receive accommodations that others may view as an unfair advantage (this is not true, but that is the subject of another question!), and some people who are at the top of their class are just not good at taking these types of tests, even though everyone knows they are perfectly capable students–but it does work as part of a process to find out some specific information about a potential candidate. What is very important to understand, however, is that because this is only one piece of the puzzle, you want to insure that you have also covered your other bases. If you get high SAT scores, for example, and have poor class grades, write a poor essay, do not take part in any extracurricular activities, and do not interview well, you are not helping yourself. On the other hand, if you get “only” average SAT scores but you have great class grades, a wonderful personal essay and recommendations, and agree to an interview, the standardized scores will become less important than other factors. Also, if your total GPA is somewhat depressed due to poor grades in your first year of high school, but you’ve performed better AND gotten good SAT scores, this can help you as well.
it really matters what type of schools you are applying, in general, selective colleges are very much focus on standardized test scores. it is the second most important evidences for the college to determine the successful rate of college graduation. other pieces of application such as transcript is the number fact in most cases.
Within the application, standardized scores are just another aspect used in creating a profile of the applicant. While some schools may place more weight on them than others, there is a growing list of colleges who have become test optional. If there is a discrepancy between course grades and test scores, the school may be looking for an explanation in the additional information section of the application. Never leave it to the imagination of the committee, address the issue up front and take ownership for your work. High school grades have been found to be a better predictor of success in college, so focus on doing your best in class and you will be rewarded.
Standardized tests, GPA, and curriculum are, in most cases the most important considerations in admission. However, which is more important will vary from college to college. At my former university GPA and curriculum were held in higher regard than the standardized testing. Most colleges are looking for well-rounded students, meaning that they want students who not only have good test scores, GPA and curriculum but whom are also involved in the extracurricular and have written a good essay.
Narrow down over 1,000,000 scholarships with personalized results.
Get matched to scholarships that are perfect for you!