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This probably won’t come as a surprise to you, but standardizedtesting (as in, the SAT and ACT) can have disparate negative impacts on first generation and/or low income (FGLI) students compared with wealthier students. So don’t confuse how well you do on a standardizedtest with how well you can do in college and life.
Starting with the Fall 2026 application cycle, undergraduate applicants will once again be required to submit standardizedtest scores (SAT or ACT) as part of their application. This marks a shift from the test-optional policy adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
This means it’s an important time for members of the high school Class of 2026 – especially those who want to run the gauntlet this admissions cycle – to be aware of the the five colleges with the most grueling standardizedtest requirements for first-year admission. Why Grueling: MIT’s 4.1%
A lot has changed with the ACT and SAT over the last 20 years. The SAT changed the format of the test in 2005, and again in 2016, and again in 2024. The ACT introduced an optional Writing section in 2005 and had minimal changes up until this year. The ACT seems to have learned by watching the SATs mistakes the year prior.
Deciding “should I take the SAT or ACT?” Both tests are important, but they differ significantly in format, content, and timing, which can impact your performance and readiness for college. What about the ACT? How many questions are on the ACT, and how fast do you have to work to answer them?
Standardizedtest scores, like the SAT and ACT, determine academic readiness and skills for entering university. While it may be beneficial to take both tests, this blog will answer the question, “Do you need both ACT and SAT for college? What Are the ACT and SAT?
Standardizedtest scores Harvard has reinstated its requirement for standardizedtest scores beginning with the class of 2029, meaning applicants must now submit SAT or ACT results as part of their application. scale) SAT Score 1500-1580 ACT Score 34-36 Successful applicants typically: Maintain a high GPA.
What About StandardizedTest Scores? The other academic factor is your test score on the ACT or SAT. Now much has been said about the diminishing importance of standardizedtests in the admissions process.
By now, you’ve probably heard: the ACT has rolled out a new version of its test called the Enhanced ACT , where students can take a shorter, slower-paced test without the dreaded Science section. But is that all that’s changed? And are those changes as good for testers as they sound?
As a high school student, you’re probably no stranger to big tests like AP exams, the PSAT, or the SAT and ACT. Here’s some good news: more colleges than ever are making the SAT and ACT optional. won’t require standardizedtest scores. Did you know there are over 2,000 colleges that don’t require SAT or ACT scores?
West Point Academy Admissions Stats Acceptance Rate: around 12% Median SAT Score Range: 1220-1450 Median ACT Score Range: 27-33 Naval Academy The United States Naval Academy , located in Annapolis, Maryland, is renowned for its exceptional training programs preparing students for U.S. Cadets are expected to excel in all three areas.
Prepare for StandardizedTests If you plan to take the SAT or ACT, start preparing now. Plan to take the test at least twice this spring and summer to meet fall deadlines. While most colleges are test-free or test-optional, remember that more and more schools are shifting back to requiring testing.
Cornell University is test-optional, but not for long. For Fall 2025 applicants, Cornell remains test-optional, giving students the choice to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, this policy will change for Fall 2026 admissions, when standardizedtest scores will once again be required.
Whether you need SAT ACT tutoring, ISEE test tutoring, or an online math tutor, Peterson’s test prep connects you with an award-winning online tutor anytime, 24/7, for instant live tutoring. Preparing for Major Exams or Transitions —Standardizedtests, college admissions, or transitioning to a new grade level can be stressful.
With all of the changes to the standardizedtesting landscape, many families wonder about the best pathway for SAT/ACT prep. As an IEC, I've historically recommended that sophomores take a practice SAT and practice ACT in the spring to get a sense of where they stand.
Now in 2025 the ACT is joining in the fun with a rolling set of updates to the test beginning in April and continuing through September 2025. I just had the opportunity to interview a representative from the ACT to clarify my own questions about the rollout now that the April test is approaching.
Your high school counselor will hopefully be a great resource for questions along the way, whether it be pointing you to potential college majors, standardizedtest advice, local college fair details, local scholarship information, and help with high school course selection.
Reasons for Sophomores and Juniors to Take the PSAT Sophomores Can use the PSAT score to help them determine whether they want to focus on preparing and taking the SAT or ACTtest for college admissions. The section scores on the PSAT can also identify areas in which the student is stronger and which areas they may need support.
Admissions review processes at non-US universities are usually less “holistic,” focusing narrowly on receipt of a high school diploma and strong standardizedtest scores, rather than considering scores as one important component of many in assessing a candidate’s application.
When planning for college , standardizedtest scores still stand out as one of the most important factors in applying to college. But one of the most common questions is, “How much does ACT/SAT tutoring cost?” How Much Does ACT/SAT Tutoring Cost?
For these reasons, it’s important that students take the PSAT seriously and prepare for their official test with as much focus as they do the SAT/ACT. This means taking practice exams and studying the test and relevant content well in advance of the test date.
Thats according to a recent analysis of ACT scores. Heres whats even more concerning: more than 40% of new graduates didnt meet the ACTs college-readiness benchmarks in any subject, and only 21% hit the mark in all four. When spring or summer rolls around, its also a great time to start taking practice tests for the PSAT, ACT, or SAT.
we can help Spring (March–May) – Early Planning Stage Plan and register for SSAT or ISEE: Many schools require one of these standardizedtests. Some schools may accept PSAT, SAT or ACT for older students also. SSAT Tutoring Stressed about the SSAT? Spring is a good time to begin preparation.
The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, is a standardizedtest that gives you a sneak peek at what the SAT will be like. Prepare for the SAT and ACT. Kick off your college application timeline by getting ready for the SAT or ACT at the start of junior year. A great way to begin is by taking a full-length practice test for both.
As we move into the 2025 testing season, a year already marked by significant shifts in higher education , the ACT itself is also undergoing notable changes. Its important for prospective students to understand how these updates may impact both their testing strategies and college applications.
Something you shouldn’t stress much about (if at all) are the SAT and/or ACT. Only about 50% of accepted and enrolled students at Hamilton submit standardizetest scores, so there isn’t massive pressure to even send them. SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 700 SAT Math: 700 ACT: 32 Instead, practice for the interview.
Its about the entire package, from your GPA and standardizedtest scores to your extracurricular activities and personal essays. Average GPA and test scores Regarding academic expectations, successful applicants typically have high standardizedtest scores, such as SAT scores ranging from 1500 to 1580 and ACT scores between 34 and 36.
Target test scores UChicago is test-optional , so you dont have to submit SAT or ACT scores. Not sure which test to take? And remember, test scores are just one part of your application. Shooting for a 1560 SAT score (or 35 ACT score) can help your case. Go with the one that plays to your strengths.
With the launch of the digital SAT in March 2024 and the more recent updates to the ACT in April 2025 (both of which introduced significant changes to test formats) the standardizedtesting landscape is more uncertain than ever. WHEN CAN I TAKE THE SAT OR ACT? ACT: Register through the official ACT website.
Here’s a breakdown of what else you need to focus on: Standardizedtest scores (optional but strongly recommended) Vanderbilt is test-optional, which means you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores. That said, it’s worth noting that not everyone submits test scores. With an acceptance rate as low as 5.1%
Competitive test scores include: PSAT Math : 740+ PSAT Reading and Writing : 700+ ACT Math : 33+ ACT Verbal : 34+ While theres no minimum grade requirement for RSI, we recommend near-perfect grades in STEM subjects to strengthen your application. Standardizedtest scores. Official transcripts.
The ACT (American College Testing) is one of the most critical standardizedtests for students aiming to gain admission to colleges and universities in the United States. ACT Scoring Process The ACT is evaluated through a series of steps to determine your final score.
ACT or SAT scores ACT English Language Arts. Alternatively, ACT English Plus Reading with a score of 63 or better or SAT Subject Tests in English Composition. The Quantitative Reasoning requirement can be fulfilled in several ways, including by completing a UCLA course or by achieving certain scores on standardizedtests.
In August 2023, ACT released their findings from a twelve year study (2010-2022), concluding that average grades for U.S. This occurred even though ACT subject tests remained relatively stagnant. In fact, ACT scores even dropped a bit in some areas. students had risen in every subject, and most notably, in math.
Test scores Unlike the many colleges that have reinstated standardizedtesting requirements , the UC schools remain test-blind and will not consider SAT or ACT scores. To ensure you make thoughtful choices, take time to research each campus to figure out which ones are the best options for you.
Navigating the world of college admissions tests can feel like deciphering an enigmatic code, especially when trying to decide between the SAT and the ACT. Both tests play a pivotal role in college admissions, serving as a benchmark for assessing a student’s readiness for college-level work.
Many of the schools that have reinstated testing requirements cite research from the Opportunity Insights group, which indicates SAT and ACT scores are the single best predictor of college success. Colleges also may act in response to a Dear Colleague letter sent by the U.S. It would not be surprising if others follow suit.
Unlock Students Potential: Introducing Our New Classic Learning Test Prep (CLT Prep)getting them closer to a score highlighting their college admissions strengths. What is the CLT Test? It is similar to ACT and SAT as scores can qualify students for academic scholarships, like Bright Future, and grant acceptance into universities.
As a result of this increasing demand, UT Austin announced it would be lowering its auto admission threshold to the top 5% and other admissions data supports this increase in competitivenessthe middle 50% of SAT and ACT scores for admitted UT Austin students drastically increased, jumping from 1230-1500 to 1310-1520.
Standardizedtest scores. Submit either SAT or ACT scores. or higher SAT – 1580 or higher ACT – 36 If you want to know more about how to get into Harvard, check out our blog here. Depending on your program, you’ll also need to take standardizedtests like the GRE, SAT, ACT, or GMAT.
SAT score of 970, and ACT score of 18 , VSU welcomes students who are ready to hustleno 4.0 weighted) high school GPA and a minimum test score of 880 SAT or 17 ACT is eligible for consideration. UVA is test-optional, and only 42% of applicants submitted test scores, so if standardizedtests arent your strength, dont sweat it.
Preparing for major examsthe SAT, ACT, AP tests, and IB assessmentscan feel overwhelming. Since this is how we naturally retain information, it only makes sense that applying the same method to studying would lead to stronger content retention and better test performance. The SAT/ACT also rewards an early approach.
Standardizedtest scores (optional). Submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional for the 202425 cycle. ACT or SAT scores (optional). Does Stanford prefer SAT over ACT? Stanford does not prefer the SAT over the ACT. They accept both, but standardizedtest scores are optional. Interview (optional).
Learning how to score higher on the SAT and ACT isnt just about studying harderits about studying smarter. And part of that is knowing how each test is scored. The way each test is structured means that strategy plays a big role in your final results, especially given the shift towards the digital SAT and the new changes to the ACT.
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