CURRENT ACT AND SAT ADMISSION REQUIRMENTS
Because of Covid, most colleges are making the ACT and SAT tests optional for admission consideration. This move helps students who do not score well get into college, but it doesn’t mean it necessarily reduces the probability of students with high scores getting accepted. College admission is one issue; merit scholarship is another. Without scholarships, college admission might not be an option for many families.
HIGH SCORES INCREASE THE CHANCE FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
Does this movement affect scholarship consideration as well? They jury is still out on that. I evaluate life’s choices with a heavy dose of probability assessment. Before this movement, the probability of receiving an impressive merit scholarship increased with an ACT score above 30. Even with schools pardoning students without ACT scores, the probability that great ACT scores still weigh in with college admission staff and scholarship committees is high. It’s hard to change thinking and judgement rubrics.
The college my daughters attend recently decided to overlook the ACT and SAT scores for admission. But their high scores were critical for the merit scholarships they received. Preparing intentionally for the ACT or SAT each year can increase the odds that a student will qualify for a sizeable merit scholarship making college attendance within financial reach. High scores get a student noticed in a sea of applicants.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF TAKING THE ACT AND SAT
Preparing for these tests throughout middle school and high school has rewards above and beyond a score. Writing, logic, and math skills can improve through intentional review and practice tests. I include the review as part of their English, math, and science study for the year.
IF NO SCORES, THEN WHAT?
A student without scores has to look great in other areas to convince admissions officers of his ability and promise. Impressive work, travel, skills, or volunteer experience are definite assets. Without some impressive endeavor or accomplishment, a student may be overlooked. Another factor to consider is the homeschool transcript. It’s not as reliable as one from a government school. The person assigning these grades, mom, is biased. Even if you don’t believe you are biased, the college admissions staff thinks so.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
My conclusion is that homeschooled students who want to attend college and have a decent chance of receiving a merit scholarship should take the ACT and SAT preparation seriously each year. It’s a homeschooler’s best tool for demonstrating academic promise.
Musing: a period of reflection or thought. As such this post reflects my thoughts, opinions, and experiences on the topic. The choice to home school and the methods you choose are yours to determine.