How important are the ACTs and the SAT subject tests???

Question

I am going to take my SAT next month, but do i have to sign up for the ACT and the SAT subject tests? Are they really that important? I am hoping to get into one of the top 50 colleges (definitely not the top 20 though).

Answer 1

YES, I would most definitely take the SAT subject tests- take at least 3, because the top colleges look at your scores for at least 2 subject tests, I believe. Well, I live in CA and all the UC's look at 2 of your subject tests. If you are a junior now, wait until the spring to take these, because you'll know more about the subjects (such as US history, chemistry, and trigonometry).

As for the ACT, I would take it anyway, because again, for UC's you can submit either your ACT or SAT score, but it is good to take both so you can compare your scores and pick the best one. I just took the ACT and I found it much easier, suprisingly, than the SAT, so I think I'll submit that score instead. So to be on the safe side, take both the SAT and ACT =)

You should also purchase a SAT review book, if you haven't already gotten one. These are great for preparing you for the tests- they give you practice problems and explanations and strategies and everything. My favorite is the Princeton Review, and you can get it at the local book store. Good luck!!!

Answer 2

As far as top 50 goes, you might want to perform fairly above average on the tests, as many schools use them in the selection process. From what I've heard, standardized testing in the top colleges weighs around 15-25% of the decision. While it might not consist of an amount to keep you out of a school, it would be beneficial to have that percentage locked in. There do happen to be outlyers though as in every situation, and as long as your GPA is high enough, the tests may not count too much, but still dont get complacent, and aim for as high of a score as possible.

Answer 3

It depends on which colleges you plan to apply to. Highly selective colleges will often require SAT Reasoning or ACT plus two or three SAT II subject exams. Some schools weigh test scores as much as 1/3 of the application, so yes, they are really that important.

Visit the undergraduate admissions websites of the colleges where you plan to apply to determine testing requirements. And remember, if a highly selective college states "recommended" you should interpret that to be "required."

Good luck.

Answer 4

The ACT is prefered by most of the schools down south and more are more colleges are requiring prospective students to take two SAT Subject Tests on any subjects of your interest.

Answer 5

yum yea, you have to test to place some schools will not take you if your SAT scores are to low, or your ACT. If you want to go to any good school you need to score at least a 1100 on your SAT, It's not super hard but will challenge you. Any way if you do not take the test no school will except you. I highly recommend that you get a test buddy to run you through the SAT so you know what to expect. Good luck.

Answer 6

some schools (notably those in the UC system) require 2 SAT II tests. Very few colleges base your acceptance soley on your ACT scores

Answer 7

Its one of the most important tests you'll take. It show the college what u know...and what you don't. Which in turn (assuming u know a lot) it could save u a lot of time. I graduated college a year ahead of time because of that test... best thing that ever happened to me.

Answer 8

You seriously don't have to take the SATII's. Its just a waste of time and if you don't get a good score, it makes your overall application look bad. However a good score on your ACT or SAT is a must.

Answer 9

They tell people how smart you are, they are very important for co9leges. To practice up visit www.number2.com CLick a test and do question of the day. They are fun too.

Answer 10

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