TEST PREP: GETTING READY FOR THE S.A.T.

SHANTIKA BHAT, KHIRA MOORE, KRISTIANA SMITH * APRIL 9, 2021

The pandemic has caused many  SAT testing centers to close during the 2020-21 admissions cycle, and as a result many colleges chose to go test-optional when making admissions decisions. Here are recent changes in testing policy and key information for current high school students preparing for the SAT and other standardized tests.

Major Changes

1. SAT Subject Tests have been discontinued.

What were the SAT Subject Tests?

SAT Subject tests were college exams to test your knowledge on specific subjects. There were 20 SAT Subject Tests in five subject areas: English, history, languages, mathematics, and science.

Why are they being Discontinued?

“We’re reducing demands on students. The expanded reach of AP and its widespread availability means the Subject Tests are no longer necessary for students to show what they know.” - College Board 

What will this mean for me?

Colleges that usually require the SAT subject test will reevaluate their policies so there is nothing to worry about.  

2. SAT Essay has been discontinued.

What was the SAT Essay?

SAT Essays were optional and found at the end of the SAT test. Students would have 50 minutes to read a passage and respond to a prompt. 

Why is it being Discontinued?

SAT Essay is no longer offered after June 2021. Collegeboard said that there are many opportunities for students to showcase their writing skills in their college essays. . 

“This change simply streamlines the process for students who have other, more relevant opportunities to show they can write an essay as part of the work they’re already doing on their path to college.”- CollegeBoard

What will this mean for me?

Colleges that usually require the SAT essay will reevaluate their policies so there is nothing to worry about.  Make sure you demonstrate your writing skills in your college essay. However, if you already have taken the SAT with Essay, see if the college you're applying to will accept it as a holistic review.

3. AP Exams will be administered on three separate occasions

What are AP exams?

Advanced Placement (or AP) exams give students the opportunity to test their knowledge in specific subjects for a chance to earn college credit. These exams are typically taken after rigorous AP courses offered during the school year. Exams are given scores ranging from 1 to 5 and students who score a 3 or higher on these exams are usually eligible for credits at most American colleges and universities.

Why is CollegeBoard offering three different dates for testing?

The COVID-19 pandemic has made it increasingly difficult to offer in-person instruction at schools. Full-length, in-person exams will be offered on each of the three administrations. Virtual versions of the exams that can be accessed by students at home will be made available during the second and third administrations. Students who are unable to take their exams in-person will still have the opportunity to earn college credit through the CollegeBoard AP program.

Administration 1 (in school) - May 3-7, 10-12, 14, 17

Administration 2 (in school & at home) - May 18-21, 24-28

Administration 3 (in school & at home) - June 1-4, 7-11

For more information on upcoming AP exam administrations, see the AP exam dates and more details on the schedule.

What does this mean for me?

You should choose which administration will work for you. Make sure you take into consideration how your school environment and home environment is before you make the decision. Keep in mind that it is very likely the virtual exams may be more challenging than those offered in school as a measure to discourage cheating for students taking the exams at home.

Current S.A.T. Schedule and Dates

Here are the dates that College Board has released for current SAT dates. Reminder that your individual school will probably have their own SAT date so keep on the lookout for that!

Word of Encouragement

The SAT doesn’t determine your worth or value so please don’t beat yourself up about your score.  As a senior, I have seen how draining these exams are on your self-esteem.  Despite that, give it your best shot because it’s your ticket to the college of your dreams. Anyone is capable of getting the best scores on this exam if you really study and put in the effort! We at the CHARM Report believe that you can do this!

Finally, some tips:

• Create a study routine and consistently study

• Take practice SAT tests at home because the most difficult part about the exam can be pacing yourself 

• Reflect on what you got wrong and go over those skills so that you can master them 

• Go to the CollegeBoard website and do a few practice problems everyday