Standardized Exams

Standardized tests are only one piece of the whole puzzle that comprises the college application and must be considered in the proper context. Scores have a role in the admission process, but they alone do not dictate whether a student is accepted or denied from a given college or university. Personal qualities such as curiosity, academic ability, personal character and integrity as well as the level of involvement in activities and the application itself all play an integral role in the process.

Standardized tests such as the ACT and the SAT are intended to help predict student success at the college level. The Advanced Placement and SAT Subject Tests verify mastery of subject-based curriculum. The development and administration of these tests provide both the student and the colleges with helpful data for the college admission process.

Not all colleges and universities agree on the specific standardized testing requirements for admission. Each college sets its own guidelines for students who apply so be sure to read the guidelines/recommendations for testing for each college of interest carefully.