Demystifying the SAT and ACT
The road to college used to include the ACT and SAT…until the pandemic changed that course. Here are the key points to help you understand the “test-optional” movement and the role of the standardized exams today.
Are Colleges and Universities still accepting SAT and ACT scores?
The short answer is, “Yes.” While many don’t require them, you can still submit them and they can be used for determining class placement (e.g., English and Math), scholarships/stipends, placement in certain majors/colleges (e.g., an Honors Engineering program) and for athletic eligibility.
Below are excerpts from the California State Universities (CSU) website and the University of California website as of May 18, 2022:
CSU Website
There will still be a section on the application where they can submit SAT and ACT scores, alongside AP and IB scores, but the test results will only be used for college level math and English course placement for admitted students.
CSU’s: Rolling Out the Change
Following a final decision, use of the new minimum eligibility index will be phased in over the next few years. (Side note: no one knows yet what this new eligibility index will look like.)
Current high school juniors: Nothing will change for the incoming class of fall 2023, applying in fall 2022. The index will still be based on the applicants’ high school GPA, with the option of submitting ACT and SAT scores.
Current high school sophomores: For the incoming class of fall 2024, the admissions office will calculate the results of both indices—the old using GPA and optional test scores, and the new index still being developed. If a student qualifies for admission under either index, they will be admitted.
Current high school freshmen: The incoming class of fall 2025 will only be considered under the new CSU minimum eligibility index.
University of California Website
UC will not consider SAT or ACT test scores when making admissions decisions or awarding scholarships. If you choose to submit test scores as part of your application, they may be used as an alternative method of fulfilling minimum requirements for eligibility or for course placement after you enroll.
The benefits of taking the SAT or ACT
For many students, a strong SAT or ACT scores can help offset GPA’s they would have liked to be higher.
In some cases, the test scores help students qualify for admission, scholarships/stipends, and determine placement in courses or colleges (e.g. an honors engineering program).
Conclusion:
The UC’s are still taking SAT and ACT scores. Students should also be aware that even if they no longer require them for admittance. most schools nationwide are at least accepting the scores to help determine other considerations.
Keep in mind that, for schools that are still accepting them, your competition will likely be submitting their scores.
Please call us at 760-599-8873 or 858-748-8873 to discuss your student’s individual needs.
ACE Tutoring of Carlsbad, Poway, and San Marcos
#acetutoringfam #ACTSAT #testprep #collegeprep
