SAT Scores
October 29, 2009
The SAT ( Scholastic Aptitude Test and Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test for college admissions in the United States. The SAT is owned, published, and developed by the College Board. The College Board claims that can determine whether or not a person is ready for college. The current SAT Test takes 3 hours and 45 minutes and costs $45 ($71 International), excluding late fees. Since the SAT’s introduction in 1901, its name and scoring has changed several times. In 2005, the test was renamed to the “SAT Reasoning Test” with possible scores from 600 to 2400 combining test results from three 800-point sections (math, critical reading, and writing), along with other subsections scored separately.
Although SAT scores are considered as one of different standards used by colleges for awarding admissions to candidates. But its exclusive importance is still there. Despite admission officers keep on saying that they make decision with an open mind and by considering all other credentials but SAT scores are vital enough for success or failure in obtaining admission.
The basic reason why these scores are preferred to other information provided by the candidate is that it is convenient to compare numerical data rather than subjective analysis of incomparable information of contesting candidates. Schools use SAT scores of their students by advertising them to develop a positive perception about the college. A college with low average of SAT scores will not be considered as an institution having top brains. Now a pertinent question arises what we mean by “good SAT score”.
Different colleges mention average SAT scores of their existing students with a view to give information where the applicant might stand among the selected students. Students don’t even think to apply if their scores are low. Some schools do not include writing skills while making overall merit of students. The reason of their doing so is the same above-mentioned reason of reliability of scores awarded to differently constructed essays of different candidates. The writing assessment may involve personal bias due to different perceptions. But writing assessment will gain more importance in near future.
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