The Common Application and Coalition Application have helped mainstream and simplify the application process for students allowing them to apply to multiple schools using the same form versus decades past when students filled out single paper applications for each college. Despite using one (or only a few) platforms to submit your college applications, you still…
The College Board transitioned to the fully digital SAT format in 2024, making it the standard for students worldwide. You’ll find that the structure and content of the new test is different than the paper-based version that most people are familiar with. No longer will the test be the same for all students on a…
Faculty Frustration with High School Curricula Having spent the majority of my career in enrollment management positions, the question of standardized testing’s impact on college admissions arises more frequently than you might expect. Collegiate faculty often express frustration with high school curricula, particularly the lack of courses that encourage students to think critically or synthesize…
Because of the Ivy League’s level of prestige and high-esteemed academics, competition for its coveted few freshman class spots is fierce. Hundreds of thousands of students apply each year to the Ivy League from around the world – for the Class of 2027, over 400,000 students applied across all eight Ivy League schools. This Article…
Debunking the myths To submit testing, or not to submit testing, that is the question on every student’s mind, but how much do colleges even care about standardized scores? Even though most colleges today use a holistic review that considers various factors to determine admission, standardized testing is often still considered to be the greatest…
In addition to the usual application materials, like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays, students are often asked to submit standardized test scores from either the SAT or ACT exam when applying to college. Top schools do not recommend one test over the other; students are allowed to submit whichever one they prefer. SAT/ACT scores…
Understanding the Pros and Cons For decades, the SAT and ACT have been a staple in the college admissions process. However, in recent years, there has been debate about whether these standardized tests are still relevant in today’s college admissions landscape. Here’s what you need to know: Pros of the SAT and ACT: Cons of…
No, college admissions is not solely about perfect GPAs and testing. While good grades and high test scores can certainly help, there are many other factors that colleges consider when evaluating applicants. First, it might be helpful to understand the difference between holistic and non-holistic college admissions. Holistic Admissions Holistic college admissions is an approach…
Most students take the ACT for the first time in either February or April of their junior year. Unfortunately, not many students will hit a home run on their first ACT sitting. But don’t worry, you can take the ACT again; actually, you can take the ACT up to 12 times but I wouldn’t advise…
The short answer is No. Colleges may ask for either the SAT or ACT, but they do not treat applicants differently based on which test scores are sent. Either one will suffice and be treated equally. Some colleges may also be “test-optional”; they may not ask for any tests at all. You may want to…