Online SAT And ACT Prep Can Definitely Make A Difference

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By Shirley Evans


The very idea of looming college admission tests seems like a mountain for numerous student each year. They feel nervous and often even scared, because they believe that their entire futures may depend upon how well they do. Students hoping for a place at top universities spend a lot of time, money and efforts in preparation. With online SAT and ACT prep websites many students can access additional help without paying a small fortune.

Sitting for these tests are not compulsory and not all institutions of higher education require applicants to submit their results. It is common knowledge, however, that all the top institutions do use these results as part of the process by which they allocate places to new applicants. For many young people a place at a top college is an important step towards a successful career.

While it is true that good test scores are important for gaining admission to top universities, it is equally true that these scores are by no means the only thing considered during the evaluation of applications. Universities want students that will make a positive contribution in various areas. They therefore also look at the ways in which the applicant is involved in community projects, sport, cultural activities and the leadership roles they held.

Sadly, many students give up their dreams of scoring well in the tests and being admitted to a good university because they believe that only super bright people get good scores. This is most definitely not the case. The tests are not designed to test general knowledge, intelligence or aptitude. They are designed to test the abilities of the student in those areas that are seen as critical for a successful college career. These areas are critical reading, writing and mathematics.

The two tests are not owned and administrated by the same organization. In fact, The ACT was first introduced in 1959 by a non profit organization of the same name and it was specifically meant to serve as competition for the SAT test, which is owned and managed by the College Board, also an American non profit organization. Both tests are highly regarded but many students opt to sit for both.

Most students sit for their tests during their senior year. Many others, however, opt to undergo them in their junior year. If they do not achieve satisfactory results, they can always sit for them again in their senior year, viewing their previous efforts as a valuable test run. There is no limit to the number of times a student can sit for either of the tests.

Some students spend a small fortune on aids and extra lessons to help them prepare for their tests. Such aids have indeed become a very big industry in itself. The administrators of the two tests insist that the guideline that they publish are more than sufficient for preparation purposes many students feel they have a better chance if they purchase additional aids. On line sites offer many free or very affordable preparation exercises and even tutoring.

Students that want to study at one of the top universities take these tests very seriously. They know that a qualification from such an institution will stand them in good stead when they start applying for jobs. It is important to remember, however, that the test results is just one of the factors that are considered when allocating places.




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