Testing Your Potential: Why Standardized Tests Are So Important in College Admissions
Have you ever wondered why the SAT test, ACT test and other standardized college entrance exams used for college admissions are so significant?
While some colleges place more importance on standardized tests than others, almost every college requires you to take at least one of the most popular exams:
the SAT, ACT, or Wonderlic test. Read on to find out the main differences between the three, and why these
college admissions tests matter.
The SAT Test
The SAT is the classic college admissions test and has been the dread of high school students for years. Fortunately, there's no reason to be afraid of SAT testing. The test focuses on SAT subjects:
- Critical Reading
- Writing
- Math
Familiarizing yourself with the SAT testing format can be very helpful for calming your nerves and completing the test (which is timed) more quickly. However, the SAT subjects were designed to test what you are already learning in high school, so doing well in school is probably the best way to ensure success.
The ACT Test
The ACT test seeks to measure a student's academic level and predict how they might perform at the college level. The ACT test focuses on the following subjects:
- English
- Math
- Reading
- Science
- Writing (optional)
The ACT test is a commonly accepted test used for college admissions, and like the SAT, it is curriculum-based.
The Wonderlic Test
The Wonderlic test is popping up more frequently as a step toward admission and an alternative to the ACT test and SAT test. The Wonderlic is designed to test the following areas:
- English and Math
- Problem Solving Abilities
- Reading comprehension
The short format of the Wonderlic test differentiates it from the SAT test and ACT test. Also, the Wonderlic test focuses mainly on testing cognitive abilities.
College Admissions Tests: A Piece of the Puzzle
The schools you apply to want to get an idea of how you may perform at the collegiate level. Your college admissions package presents a sort of mosaic of who you are, and admissions tests are just one piece of that picture. Use them to your advantage--to show your potential to the colleges of your choice!
http://www.collegeboard.com
http://www.wonderlic.com
http://www.actstudent.org
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