Why Juniors (Class of 2022) Should Still Take Standardized Tests
Covid-19 has proven both difficult for academics but also for college applications. Current high school seniors (class of 2021) have been instituted an SAT and ACT-optional policy for their college applications. This is a challenge to students wanting to boost previous scores and demonstrate their aptitude. However, questions abound about what testing will look like for current juniors (class of 2022). Will testing be optional for them too? Should they invest the time and effort now to test or wait and see what happens?
The SAT and ACT are a right of passage. These capstone tests have been a fundamental component of college applications since 1926. However, over the past 13 years, some colleges and universities, like Wake Forest University in 2008, have opted for a test-optional application. Nonetheless, these assessments are still critical in each student’s dossier.
Despite testing cancellations and pandemic restrictions, high school juniors should still prep for and sit the exams, especially if this was part of their original application plan. Why is this still important?
The SAT and ACT provide students with an additional set of challenges, requiring them to develop the practices to prepare for something other than school work or extracurricular activities. They are conducive to a structured framework that prepares students for college and graduate school.
The College Board (SAT) and ACT are adding test dates to accomodate students and will likely be administered virtually, with the ACT being offered digitally as soon as winter 2021.
Even if applications remain test-optional, adding scores to a students’ profile will further enhance their applications. If the test does not reflect students’ best, the scores do not need to be submitted.
Test scores help students receive more merit-based financial aid and place out of introductory courses.
The standardized testing process if often complicated, convoluted, and stressful. ALB Tutoring helps students and parents create personalized preparation plans in order to manage stress and expectations while learning how to take the test.
Contact ALB Tutoring to help your student learn better.
