By Namita Mehta
The role of standardised tests persists in the ever-evolving landscape of US university admissions. Standardised tests provide a common benchmark for universities to assess students’ abilities across diverse educational backgrounds and institutions. While not obligatory, a compelling score can sway admission decisions and bolster your eligibility for admissions. Read on to discover standardised tests for US admissions:
In a landmark move, the College Board shifted the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) from a paper-and-pencil exam to a digital format for international test-takers in March 2023. The full SAT Suite of Assessments will follow suit in spring 2024. It is an aptitude test that assesses reasoning and verbal abilities. The Digital SAT aims to enhance accessibility, streamline testing, and offers interactive features like drag-and-drop and fill-in-the-blank questions. It is an adaptive test, adjusting question difficulty based on performance. The test is concise, lasting approximately two hours and 14 minutes, and is divided into a Reading and Writing section (64 minutes) and a Math section (70 minutes). Notable changes include the allowance of calculators throughout the maths section and the incorporation of interactive elements.
The reading and writing section comprises brief passages followed by multiple-choice questions. Embracing diverse content areas, including literature, history, humanities, and science, this section assesses craft and structure, information and ideas, standard English conventions, and expression of ideas. The Math section evaluates critical areas such as algebra, advanced math, problem-solving, data analysis, geometry, and trigonometry. A mix of multiple-choice and contextualised questions demands a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. Unlike the previous format, a calculator is permitted throughout this section.
A good SAT score is relative and depends on your target institutions. While a score of 1,360 (84th percentile) is suitable for schools like Arizona State University, highly selective institutions may require scores of 1,520 and above. Retaking the SAT is a personal decision contingent on goals, score satisfaction, and application timelines.
The ACT: An Overview for 2024
In contrast to the SAT’s aptitude focus, the ACT (American College Test) is an achievement exam measuring written, mathematical, verbal, and scientific skills. Comprising English, maths, reading, science, and an optional essay, the ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. It includes a 45-minute English section that assesses grammar and punctuation. Its 35-minute Reading section gauges comprehension across diverse topics, while the 60-minute Maths section evaluates practical mathematical problem-solving. Unlike the SAT, this exam has a 35-minute science section and a 40-minute optional essay.
A good ACT score varies based on college preferences. For instance, a score of 29 is favourable for schools like Texas A&M University but may fall short for Ivy League institutions. The flexibility to retake the ACT offers opportunities for improvement.
SAT or ACT: Choosing The Right Exam for 2024
“Should I take the SAT or the ACT?” We get this question every year. The truth: It does not matter. Neither test is easier, and colleges view both equally. Ideally, you should opt for one that aligns with your test-taking style. To determine the best test for you, conduct an exercise. Simulate testing conditions by taking the ACT and SAT without preparation, adhering to time constraints. Opt for diagnostic tests with professionals for accuracy. This exercise helps identify which test you should take.
Non-testing Options for 2024
In response to evolving educational landscapes and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, an increasing number of US colleges are de-emphasised the importance of standardised test scores as part of your application process with new policies in place:
Test-optional: Colleges that implement a test-optional policy will consider SAT/ACT scores if you choose to submit them, but they are not mandatory in the application review process.
Test-flexible: Colleges using this approach demand standardised test scores but offer alternatives. Some schools may exempt SAT/ACT requirements based on a high GPA, or they may accept Advanced Placement scores, emphasising subject mastery and showcasing your academic interests and motivations.
Test-blind policies: Test-blind colleges do not consider SAT/ACT scores, even if submitted.
These policies are college-specific. Although it’s within your discretion to forego the SAT/ACT, I strongly recommend taking the exams as a counsellor. Highly competitive universities still prefer or require standardised test scores. Additionally, submitting test scores could strengthen your overall application if your academic record, extracurricular activities, or other application components are not exceptionally strong.
Preparing for standardised tests in 2024
High SAT/ACT scores are crucial, not just for admissions but also for scholarship applications. While you can always study independently, test prep courses (online and in-person) play a pivotal role by offering valuable strategies to ace these exams. They also provide a comprehensive framework for the expected content, familiarising students with the questions they will likely encounter. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to decipher a class that’s best for you. Before selecting a test prep course, you must determine teacher qualifications, class size, coursework, success rate and the study material they provide. To help you make an informed decision, The Red Pen is bringing together some of India’s best test-prep courses to the Summer Programmes Fair 2024. You will meet representatives of SAT n Paper, AP Guru, LessonBoard and Quest For Success in person and discover what they offer.
India’s first and largest, the Summer Programmes Fair, is a one-stop destination for summer enrichment programmes. Now in its fourth year, it’s bigger, better, and more exciting than ever! This fair caters to highly motivated families and educators of students between grades 6-12. It offers a unique opportunity to engage one-on-one with international and Indian programme providers. Apart from test-prep courses, you can also explore STEM courses, academic enrichment programmes, research and internship options, sports and creative intensives, community service initiatives, outdoor activities and much more. Entry is free; those who register and attend can win raffle prizes worth Rs 7,00,000. Register now for the Summer Programmes Fair 2024!
The author is the president of The Red Pen.
