How do colleges use standardized admission tests?

For many college-bound high school students (and parents), the topic of standardized testing can create great angst. Between registering for the test, prepping for it, taking it, and waiting on results, this is understandable. Considering that more schools are making standardized testing optional, some students may question whether taking the tests is worth the stress. However, it’s interesting to note that schools use admission tests for more than one reason, including:

• Admission decisions. This is a no-brainer. The main purpose of standardized tests is to help colleges evaluate and compare students from different high schools. While many other factors play into admission decisions—including academic performance, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation—standardized tests have long been considered a valuable tool for colleges seeking to enroll the best candidates.
• Scholarship decisions. Some colleges use test scores to award their funds. (Other organizations and private companies that award scholarships may also require test scores as part of their applications.)
• College class placement. Since admission tests such as the SAT and ACT evaluate reading, writing, and math skills, some schools use scores to place students in classes that are the appropriate level for them. Scores can also identify students who may benefit from academic support.
• Finding prospective students. The SAT and ACT both offer opportunities for students to share information with colleges. This, in turn, allows schools to connect with interested candidates for admission.
• Publicity. Most colleges publish information, such as the average test scores of currently enrolled students. This allows prospective students to see how their scores stack up if they are interested in a particular college. However, since colleges admit students with a wide range of scores, it is important to remember that published scores/ranges should be considered as a guide only.

In conclusion, standardized testing will continue to be a mainstay for the foreseeable future. Whether a school requires standardized admission tests or not, students may still want to consider submitting test scores—especially if those scores are high and/or they are applying for scholarship money. The information gathered can play an instrumental role in students finding the right “fit”—in schools and classes. In addition, the information exchange between colleges and students, facilitated by standardized tests, offers additional benefits that are of value to both colleges and prospective students.

If you have questions about standardized testing, we are here to help! Contact us for information about this and any other college application topic.