The Importance of the SAT/ACT Tests

December 14, 2009 • Micky Wong  
Filed under Features

High school seniors across the country are currently in the midst of or have already completed college applications for next fall.   Many of the colleges that they are applying for require students to have completed either the SAT Reasoning or ACT tests.  But what are the SAT/ACT tests, and why do so many colleges and universities require college applicants to take them?

 The SAT Reasoning Test and the ACT Test are standardized tests administered six times a year by the College Board and ACT, Inc., respectively.  These assessments measure general education as well as reading, writing, and mathematics skills (science skills also in the ACT).  High school students usually take them during the spring of their junior years or during the fall of their senior years, when most applications are due.  Numerous colleges and universities require students to take one or the other and include the test scores in their applications to be considered during the acceptance process.

The SAT and ACT tests are important because colleges use them when considering applications.  According the College Board and ACT, Inc. websites, these tests help predict success in college.  While GPA’s are probably the best indicator of future college success, grading systems vary from school to school.  The SAT and ACT provide a more objective way for colleges to measure college preparation and compare students.

Some colleges and universities also require students to take one or more SAT Subject Tests, which focus on individual subjects.  Subject test scores help colleges evaluate students in specific areas, which may be important when one is planning to enter a specific major.  Colleges may have specific Subject Test requirements, so be sure to check on college websites. 

 Because the SAT/ACT tests are considered by some colleges during the application process, students are encouraged to prepare as much as possible prior to the test, such as by taking practice exams, completing practice problems, and reading SAT study books.

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