While the value of standardized tests in relation to success in college is often debated, the fact remains that standardized tests are an important variable in the college admission and funding process. Students I work with often tell me that they were told that their test scores do not matter that much. Well, if you have heard that “rumor”, let me share the truth!
While it is true that there are over 1000 colleges that do not “require” standardized tests for admission, most of those same colleges DO require standardized tests in order to award certain merit-based financial scholarships and awards. So if cost is not a factor in your college choice ($65,000 a year is ok with you), and your test scores are low, then by all means, choose your college from the test-optional list of schools! But if cost matters to you, then beware when you are told that test scores do not matter!
There are many colleges that offer automatic merit-based scholarships based solely on your grades and test scores. Take Colorado State for example. A student with a 3.8 GPA and an ACT of 28 will automatically qualify for an $8000/year scholarship. That is $32,000 over a 4 year period. But wait! If the student can raise that ACT score by 1 point, to a 29, that they will earn an extra $8000 over that same 4 year period for a total of $40,000; all based on grades and test scores.
There are other colleges that use grades, test score and class rank as a cut off for consideration for certain scholarships. So although the scholarship may not be automatic, if a student is to be considered for certain scholarships, it is necessary for them to submit test scores. For example, Texas A&M states, “To be considered for the scholarships listed…..” and they proceed to give minimum SAT/ACT scores required.
So how do you find these automatic scholarships? Since the majority of scholarships given for test scores and GPA are merit scholarships, start by looking for “Merit-Based” or “Academic-Based” scholarships. Most colleges have a page dedicated to merit scholarships. Try searching “[College/University Name] Scholarships” or “[College/University Name] Financial Aid”. Be sure the scholarships you find are for entering freshmen and check for in-state or out-of-state designations. Check to see if there is a separate application required and also if there are specific deadlines. Sometimes the deadlines are the same as the application deadlines.
Now the most important question is, “How do I raise my SAT or ACT scores?” At Soar College Planning we have a system that includes the following steps:
1. Choose the right test; SAT vs ACT?. There are various diagnostics to determine which test is best for each student. The colleges do not care which test a student takes! They accept either.
2. Schedule the right test. Once the right test is decided, look at the students’ busy schedules, math level, and test dates to determine a test schedule that allows them the optimum amount of time to study. Students should begin no later than January of the junior year.
3. Develop a study plan; this includes determining a target score. We offer many different study options for students. Each is tailored to student needs. This includes online prep, Boot Camps, and private tutoring. Practice is the key to success, and this is impacted by student motivation.
4. Evaluate scores and determine next steps; continue to study, or decide if that score is good enough!
So the next time someone tells you that the test scores “don’t matter”, share this article with him/her!
