Taking the SAT can be stressful. It requires time to prepare as well as time and money to take. So why spend so much effort on it? Here are five reasons the SAT is important for students.

1) College Admittance

The first and most obvious reason is college admittance. Most institutions require either an SAT or ACT score to be submitted along with your application. According to CNN School of Thought, even colleges that don’t require a standardized test will often still accept a test score to supplement an application. A SAT score can significantly improve your chance of being admitted to the college of your choice.

2) Required Courses

After you have been accepted into an institution some colleges or universities may allow you to skip introductory courses based on your SAT score. Many institutions require introductory level math and writing courses. Being able to skip these classes will save you money and open up your schedule to take courses that will either allow you to explore your interests or move deeper into your chosen field of study.

3) Grants and Scholarships

Grants and scholarships offered either by your institution or by independent parties may consider your SAT scores; some are based solely on SAT scores or a combination of SAT scores and GPA. Having a strong SAT score available may make financial assistance more readily available. Any scholarship or grant is money that you won’t have to pay back. That can be extremely helpful as you pursue your education.

4) Indicates Success in Higher Education

The SAT includes fundamental knowledge that will help you perform well in college. According to a study done by the College Board, the writing section of the SAT is one of the best indicators of freshman year GPA. If you have the knowledge base to do well on the SAT, you have what it takes to further your studies.

It also tests practical problem solving skills. Some argue that knowing how to take a test is irrelevant to everyday life. However, having problem solving skills that help you perform well on a test can transfer to many situations both in life and your undergraduate studies.

5) Rite of Passage

Most college bound students will take the SAT. There is camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment as you complete the SAT with your fellow students. An article from NPR states, “The whole drama of high school wouldn’t be complete without it.”

Beyond preparing you for college, preparing for and taking the SAT can help you learn time management skills, methods for relieving and coping with stress and how to remain calm under pressure. All of these skills can help you in life no matter what your career path is.

The SAT is an important measure for many colleges and universities when it comes to admittance. Taking the SAT will give you the most diverse options when it comes to higher education. It may also make it financially possible to attend the institution of your choice. The SAT is a valuable high school experience and can help you go on to be successful. It is just a test, but it is a test that can teach a lot of important life skills. Participating in a prep course can take some of the mystery out of the test and help you feel more equipped to do well. The more confident and excited you feel, rather than afraid and stressed, when you go into the SAT, the more likely you are to do well. Doing well on the SAT can set you up to do well in college and beyond!

Burlingame SAT Test Preparation

Mr. Test Prep strives to prepare students with his Burlingame SAT Test Preparation program. When students engage in his Burlingame SAT Test Preparation program their scores reflect the hard work and dedication put forth. With over 1500 students taught, call Mr. Test Prep with confidence and be prepared!