Scores on Standardized Tests
You know all about the importance of the SAT and ACT, so it'll
come as no surprise that standardized test scores ranked as the
second most important factor in college admissions for the tenth
year running. In fact, the percentage of admissions officers who
characterized these tests as of "considerable importance" jumped
5% since last year and has risen almost 20% since 1992.
This trend is a sign of the times. With the number and quality
of college applicants on the rise, standardized tests have become
the one factor that admissions departments can use to easily—and
cheaply—distinguish between candidates. State budget cuts have
left admissions departments understaffed, especially at the
larger state universities.
The good news is that standardized test scores are a factor
you can certainly improve. Grades and class rank can be tough to
correct if you've slipped up even a little in the past.
Standardized tests, on the other hand, can be taken again. Plus,
there are tons of resources available to help you succeed. Once
you buckle down and see your score jump, you'll be happy these
tests are such a factor.
