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.
Sitting for these tests are not compulsory and not all institutions of higher education require applicants to submit their results. It is common knowledge, however, that all the top institutions do use these results as part of the process by which they allocate places to new applicants. For many young people a place at a top college is an important step towards a successful career.
While excellent scores can certainly play an important role in getting a place at a good university, they are not the only factor that plays a role in the selection process. Universities want students that lead balanced lives. They therefore also take into account things like whether the applicant actively plays sport, is involved in community affairs, support cultural and social events and whether they consistently did well during their school years.
Sadly, many students give up their dreams of scoring well in the tests and being admitted to a good university because they believe that only super bright people get good scores. This is most definitely not the case. The tests are not designed to test general knowledge, intelligence or aptitude. They are designed to test the abilities of the student in those areas that are seen as critical for a successful college career. These areas are critical reading, writing and mathematics.
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.
Traditionally, students sit for the tests during their senior high school year. Many serious students opt to do this in their junior year, however. This is because there is no limit to the number of times one can undergo the tests. Student therefore view their junior year efforts as a test run, knowing that they can repeat the process the following year if the results are not satisfactory.
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.
Good score can certainly help to gain a place at a top educational institution. However, the ability to demonstrate a healthy interest in various fields and active participation in different activities also play a very big role. Getting that coveted place at a prestige institution is certainly worth the hard work and dedication.
Sitting for these tests are not compulsory and not all institutions of higher education require applicants to submit their results. It is common knowledge, however, that all the top institutions do use these results as part of the process by which they allocate places to new applicants. For many young people a place at a top college is an important step towards a successful career.
While excellent scores can certainly play an important role in getting a place at a good university, they are not the only factor that plays a role in the selection process. Universities want students that lead balanced lives. They therefore also take into account things like whether the applicant actively plays sport, is involved in community affairs, support cultural and social events and whether they consistently did well during their school years.
Sadly, many students give up their dreams of scoring well in the tests and being admitted to a good university because they believe that only super bright people get good scores. This is most definitely not the case. The tests are not designed to test general knowledge, intelligence or aptitude. They are designed to test the abilities of the student in those areas that are seen as critical for a successful college career. These areas are critical reading, writing and mathematics.
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.
Traditionally, students sit for the tests during their senior high school year. Many serious students opt to do this in their junior year, however. This is because there is no limit to the number of times one can undergo the tests. Student therefore view their junior year efforts as a test run, knowing that they can repeat the process the following year if the results are not satisfactory.
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.
Good score can certainly help to gain a place at a top educational institution. However, the ability to demonstrate a healthy interest in various fields and active participation in different activities also play a very big role. Getting that coveted place at a prestige institution is certainly worth the hard work and dedication.
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