Over 80 years the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) test scores have been essential tools for students and families in assessing the students’ preparedness for college and their ability to handle college courses.
It is not meant to evaluate high schools or school districts but rather to help college admissions officers make fair and informed college admission decisions. Once students take the SAT, they send their scores to their chosen schools. These scores are added to the admission process.
There are three parts to the SAT I: verbal, math and writing. The verbal test emphasizes reading. It assesses the student’s ability to draw inferences, to distinguish between main and supporting ideas and to understand vocabulary.
The math test requires students to apply mathematical concepts and use skill in interpreting tables, charts and graphs. The writing test includes two portions. The multiple choice section shows how a student uses standard written English. The essay portion provides the student an opportunity to develop their point of view and use evidence and reasoning to support their ideas. A perfect score is 800 points on each section for a total of 2,400. This score is rarely achieved.
With reference to the SAT II subject tests, there are 20 different subjects available. Many selective colleges may require one or more of these tests in addition to the SAT I.
Check with each school regarding their SAT II test requirements. Although they may not be required, some majors may recommend certain SAT II tests. If students apply to a highly selective college or UC campus such as UCLA or UC-Davis they should submit the recommended subject test scores.
Many parents and students get frenzied and worried over SAT scores. Do not despair! To help students prepare, the PSAT/NMSQT is administered in the fall of each year.
This test is typically taken by sophomores and juniors and will be excellent practice for the SAT. It also shows the students’ weaknesses and allows them to study these areas.
The next SAT and SAT II test dates for the 2014 school year are May 3 and June 7 with registration deadlines of April 4 and May 9, 2014.
If you miss the deadline, you may still register with a late charge fee. You may only take the SAT I or up to three SAT II subject tests on any test day. The fee for the SAT I is $51. The basic subject test fee for the SAT II is $24.50 per registration. All other subject tests are $13 per test.
On the horizon
Effective spring 2016 College Board is again redesigning the SAT. It is returning to the two-part 1,600 scoring scale for the Evidenced-base reading and writing section and a math section. The essay will be optional and scored separately. Some colleges may require the essay section so parents and students must check the college websites for direction.
On a final note to parents, remember, for every student there is a college that will come very close to matching the student’s personality, likes and comforts. High SAT scores and Ivy League schools do not ensure a successful adult.
Attending a college where the student can mature, study and experience new things are equally important.
The goal is to graduate from a school where the student will feel at home for the next four years. So if your child’s SAT scores do not jump off the page, be assured there is a school waiting with open arms to accept your student. And that college will probably be the best “fit.”
Information for this article was collected from www.collegeboard.org a website dedicated to assisting and advising college-bound students.
Margene Walz is an academic and athletic counselor for Quest College Counseling in Los Alamitos. For more information call (562) 280-0460.
