Standardized tests are meant to assess a student’s knowledge and skills-based mastery, helping identify academic strengths and weaknesses. Test scores can help colleges gauge academic readiness for applying students. The ACT and SAT played a significant role in college admissions, with strong scores becoming a prerequisite for admissions at the most competitive schools. High scores have also meant access to merit-based scholarship opportunities, often reducing college costs for talented students.
With the focus on testing and the strongest possible test scores, a whole industry around test prep was born. Preparation boosts confidence, promotes practice and reduces test anxiety allowing for better performance on exam day. Time management and effective study strategies are invaluable by products of test prep that will position you for success in college and beyond. But here’s the catch-
Testing is not always an indicator of success in college or mastery of material or acquisition of skills. Some students just don’t test well. Some students deal with tremendous anxiety. Some students don’t have access to time or other resources like private tutoring. COVID-19 changed the testing landscape and suddenly testing was not a requisite step anymore. Most universities went test-optional, leaving the choice to submit (or not) in a student’s hands. Some schools decided to go test-blind, adding another testing scenario to the table.
So, to answer the question: If there’s time, definitely test. As for submitting, talk to me when you have your best scores, and then we’ll decide. Considering my position, here’s what I advise regarding test prep:
Take a baseline SAT and ACT around the same time so you have a good opportunity for accurate comparison.
Consider how your student felt as he/she/they took the tests and look at how the results played out and decide on a testing plan.
Create a study plan or hire a tutor or test prep program to keep your student in practice mode as he/she/they prep(s) for the test.
Create an account, complete profile and register for the ACT or SAT online.
Take the test and then decide next steps once your scores are received.
Decide whether you will continue to prep and practice or whether you’re done or have decided to go test optional or test blind.
A note about test optional: My personal belief is that test optional is what has been largely responsible for the many problems we are currently experiencing in the world of college admissions. It’s a scam, driving down admissions rates while adding to the stress levels of students who are choosing to at least try to test. If we really want to expand accessibility we need to go test required or test blind. Test optional keeps us playing the selective scores only game, thereby driving median score ranges up and making it virtually impossible for kids to get in if they are submitting scores.
My personal advice on testing: Take an official test so you have a test score if you need to submit one. But if you choose to go test optional, address your conscious choice and intention in the additional info section. Also, share what you have done in place of choosing not to make testing a full time job?
Whatever you decide, we will support you. Here at Chapman Education, LLC, we are here to support you, to challenge you and to help ensure that your full story is being shared.
Reach out to us to schedule a meeting. We’re always eager to be helpful!
Christine Chapman
