Sunday, January 25, 2015

By Janine Hughes


Since 1926 numerous students in the United States and elsewhere in the world look forward to or dread the idea of sitting for the Scholastic Aptitude Test. While not compulsory, these tests play a very important role in the admissions policies of most colleges and other institutions of higher education. The tests are designed to determine the readiness of a student for a college education. By starting in good time with SAT prep Palm Beach FL students can be confident about doing well.

Not all colleges require applicants to submit their scores in the admission tests. The fact remains, however, that few reputable colleges will admit a new student unless he not only sat for the tests, but also obtained a good score. Admittance to a good college can be vital for the future success of all young people. This is why most students still prepare for and sit for these stressful tests.

Scores obtained in the admission test are certainly important but students need to understand that admission also depends upon several other factors. High school grades are also very important and many eminent colleges even require prospective students to submit a CV showing that they were involved in community work, sport and cultural activities. They want well rounded students that are active within their own environments.

It is a common misconception to think that only very bright students do well in the tests. This is not the case and the tests are not designed to evaluate intelligence at all. The tests also do not evaluate general knowledge or any specific aptitude. They are rather meant to measure the readiness of the student to successfully complete a college career. Proficiency in thee areas are measured. These are critical writing, reading and mathematics.

The College Board, which owns, sets and administer SAT has recognized the need for specific subject tests. Applicants to colleges can opt to sit for one or more of the twenty Subject Tests. Good scores in these tests will further enhance their applications to colleges. Some colleges even give new students credits in certain entry level courses if they performed well in relevant Subject Tests.

Ordinarily, students sit for their tests during their senior year in high school. However, those that truly want to score well often sit for the test during their junior year. Many students see this as a sort of practice run to see how it works. If they do not obtain the scores that they hoped for, they can always do the test again in their senior year.

Entrepreneurs have been quick to realize that parents and students will be willing to spend money if there is a chance to obtain better results. Numerous websites, study guides and courses are available, all aiming to help the student obtain higher scores. There are some charlatans in every industry, however, and students should make sure that the courses or material they use are from reputable sources.

There can be little doubt that good scores in the SAT is important. Admission to a good college can be the first step towards a rewarding and lucrative career. Most reputable and desirable colleges have limited places and it is only natural that they will award those places to students most likely to excel.




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