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SAT Scores Pros And Cons

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The SAT and ACT have come under scrutiny for unreliability when it comes to college preparedness. Even though there is support for the test and its ability to predict a student’s first year performance, studies from a number of other sources have found negatives that come along with these tests. From elitism to inhibiting brilliant minds, evidence shows that these two tests are more trouble than they are worth. Colleges are even beginning to react to the negatives involved with the tests. With these negatives becoming more apparent, many colleges have adopted a test optional approach, instead of basing acceptance off of test scores. With colleges taking actions such as these, a conclusion can be drawn about said testing. ACT and SAT scores …show more content…

Some studies have shown that ACT and SAT scores can aid in predicting a student’s chances of success during the first year of college. “Overwhelming evidence shows that SAT scores and high school GPA in combination are the best predictors of college success” (Sanchez). This statement is logical, in that the more data there is available, the more resources can be used to make accurate predictions. Along with this, another benefit in the form of motivation also comes with the tests. With such high pressures, students would be incentivized to perform at peak potential, and gain confidence and have abilities boosted as a whole if a significant score is produced. “93% of studies on student testing, including the use of large scale and high stakes standardized tests, found a positive effect on student achievement” (“Standardized Tests - Procon”). The statement by Procon gives foundation to the idea that tests putting pressure on students will push ones limits, and improve one’s abilities. These abilities may carry on into the early years of college, and help an individual push through. Pressure can be negative however, and not everything about the SAT and ACT is …show more content…

Many colleges have already made these tests optional, and have seen improvements. “...test - optional admissions improves diversity [and] does not undermine academic quality” (Westervelt). The removal of these tests allows for more students to have a chance at getting into college. Intelligent students who test poorly will have the chance to benefit from more schooling as well. In addition to this, colleges would be able to base admissions off of a more reliable data set. This reliable data set is of course high school grades and GPA. “Even the test maker admits that high school grades predict first year college grades better than ACT scores” (“The ACT: Biased”). The maker of the test says that high school grades are a better predictor than the test. Even though it’s true that the test in combination with GPA is the best predictor of first year college success, high schools grades alone are effective and without the negatives of the tests. High school GPA is a collection of performance throughout a four year time span, which is substantial compared to the single point of data given by the SAT or ACT. Colleges could easily use high school grades to determine if a student should be admitted into their campus, and base scholarships off of those years of

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