The very idea of looming college admission tests seems like a mountain for numerous student each year. They feel nervous and often even scared, because they believe that their entire futures may depend upon how well they do. Students hoping for a place at top universities spend a lot of time, money and efforts in preparation. With online SAT and ACT prep websites many students can access additional help without paying a small fortune.
There is no rule that forces everyone to sit for the tests. In fact, many universities and colleges do not even take the scores into consideration during the application evaluation process. Yet most serious students still undergo the tests because they know that all the best regarded and most prestigious institutions place a very high value on the scores new applicants achieved.
While it is true that good test scores are important for gaining admission to top universities, it is equally true that these scores are by no means the only thing considered during the evaluation of applications. Universities want students that will make a positive contribution in various areas. They therefore also look at the ways in which the applicant is involved in community projects, sport, cultural activities and the leadership roles they held.
It is a fallacy to think that it is only exceptionally intelligent people that perform well in these tests. The tests are not designed to measure intelligence and neither do they determine aptitude or general knowledge levels. Their main aim is to test the proficiency of students in those areas that are deemed vital for a successful college career. The tests focus on mathematics, writing, natural sciences and critical reading skills.
The two tests are actually in competition with each other. The SAT test, owned by the College Board, is the oldest and the ACT test, belonging to a non profit organization with the same name, was introduced in 1959 to compete with the test of the College Board. Many students sit for both tests and they are both well regarded by most top educational institutions.
The majority of students undergo the test in their senior year in high school. Many prefer to do it in their junior year, however. Their reasoning is that it is a good thing to gain experience and if they are not happy with the results they can sit for the tests once more during their senior year. Students can sit for both the tests as many times as they wish.
There are numerous books offering help in preparing for the tests. Many people offer personal tutoring. Students and their parents are often willing to pay small fortunes in the belief that it is worth it if it will provide an extra edge. There are also many websites offering on line advice, tips and exercises. These are often free of charge. However, the College Board says that their guidelines are more than sufficient to effectively complete preparations.
Nobody will deny the fact that a qualification from a prestigious university is deemed as a definite advantage. Places at those universities are scarce and difficult to obtain. That is why it is important to do everything possible to gain good scores to support an otherwise balanced application.
There is no rule that forces everyone to sit for the tests. In fact, many universities and colleges do not even take the scores into consideration during the application evaluation process. Yet most serious students still undergo the tests because they know that all the best regarded and most prestigious institutions place a very high value on the scores new applicants achieved.
While it is true that good test scores are important for gaining admission to top universities, it is equally true that these scores are by no means the only thing considered during the evaluation of applications. Universities want students that will make a positive contribution in various areas. They therefore also look at the ways in which the applicant is involved in community projects, sport, cultural activities and the leadership roles they held.
It is a fallacy to think that it is only exceptionally intelligent people that perform well in these tests. The tests are not designed to measure intelligence and neither do they determine aptitude or general knowledge levels. Their main aim is to test the proficiency of students in those areas that are deemed vital for a successful college career. The tests focus on mathematics, writing, natural sciences and critical reading skills.
The two tests are actually in competition with each other. The SAT test, owned by the College Board, is the oldest and the ACT test, belonging to a non profit organization with the same name, was introduced in 1959 to compete with the test of the College Board. Many students sit for both tests and they are both well regarded by most top educational institutions.
The majority of students undergo the test in their senior year in high school. Many prefer to do it in their junior year, however. Their reasoning is that it is a good thing to gain experience and if they are not happy with the results they can sit for the tests once more during their senior year. Students can sit for both the tests as many times as they wish.
There are numerous books offering help in preparing for the tests. Many people offer personal tutoring. Students and their parents are often willing to pay small fortunes in the belief that it is worth it if it will provide an extra edge. There are also many websites offering on line advice, tips and exercises. These are often free of charge. However, the College Board says that their guidelines are more than sufficient to effectively complete preparations.
Nobody will deny the fact that a qualification from a prestigious university is deemed as a definite advantage. Places at those universities are scarce and difficult to obtain. That is why it is important to do everything possible to gain good scores to support an otherwise balanced application.
About the Author:
Find an overview of the reasons why you should complete online SAT and ACT prep courses and more info about excellent courses at http://www.netcollegeprep.com now.
No comments:
Post a Comment