What You and Your Child Need to Know About the SAT and ACT

A Student's Journey to Becoming a Neurosurgeon and the Challenges of College Entrance Exams

Nkechinyere Okwuwasi, a senior at City High Middle School in Grand Rapids, has big dreams. She aspires to become a neurosurgeon and is working hard to achieve that goal. Her path includes attending an out-of-state university, possibly Brown University, one of the Ivy League schools. To prepare for this future, she dedicates two to four hours each day to studying for the SAT. This August will be her second attempt at the exam, and she’s not alone in this effort. Thousands of students across the state are gearing up for college entrance exams in the coming months.

The college admissions process can be complex, especially with the evolving landscape of standardized testing. For students like Okwuwasi, understanding what to expect and how to prepare is crucial. The state of Michigan requires all high school students to take the SAT during their junior year, but the test is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to college applications and scholarships.

Changes in College Entrance Testing

Over the years, the requirements for college entrance exams have evolved significantly. Many students now juggle multiple responsibilities—AP classes, sports, volunteering, and part-time jobs—all while preparing for their exams. While testing has traditionally played a major role in college admissions, more schools are adopting a “test optional” approach. This means they no longer require SAT or ACT scores for admission.

According to Nick Booza, a senior admissions counselor at the University of Detroit Mercy, students today need to do more than previous generations to secure opportunities. Some schools still require test scores, but many use them differently. For example, some consider them for merit scholarships, while others may require them for specific majors. At the same time, other institutions might not factor them into their decisions at all.

Michigan State University (MSU), which currently offers a test-optional policy, advises families to check with individual schools about their requirements. Students who believe their scores reflect their academic abilities are encouraged to submit them, while those who feel otherwise can apply without penalty.

The Impact of Test Optional Policies

Many colleges across the state, including the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and Grand Valley State University, have adopted test-optional policies. According to Cortney Flint, director of one-on-one college advising at Kaplan, only around 11% of schools surveyed last year required the SAT. However, some Ivy League and out-of-state schools still mandate test scores.

Charles Cotton IIII, vice provost of enrollment management at Wayne State University, emphasized that the shift to test-optional policies allows students to present their best selves. While the test isn’t always a perfect reflection of academic potential, it can open doors for certain programs. For instance, some schools use test scores to determine eligibility for merit-based financial aid.

Understanding the SAT and ACT

The SAT and ACT are the two primary college entrance exams accepted by U.S. schools. Most institutions accept both, but in Michigan, high school juniors are required to take the SAT as part of the state-administered assessment. This practice began in 2016 after the state Department of Education awarded a contract to the College Board.

While the SAT is free for students, the ACT is available at an additional cost if taken outside of school hours. Nicole Gibbs, a senior director at College Board, explained that the partnership ensures students can take the SAT in a familiar environment. The SAT is also part of the Michigan Merit Exam, which includes assessments in science, social studies, and job skills.

Choosing the Right Test

Flint recommends that students take a diagnostic test to determine whether the SAT or ACT suits their strengths better. While the tests are similar, the ACT has a separate science section and is scored differently. Flint cautioned against trying to prepare for both exams simultaneously, as this could lead to less-than-optimal results.

Lucas Inman, a school counselor in Grandville, noted that some students use the SAT as a practice run before taking the ACT. However, he advised parents to have their children take the SAT twice before exploring alternatives.

Planning for Test Prep

Starting early is key to success in test preparation. Flint suggests that students begin exploring their options during their sophomore year. The summer before junior year is an ideal time to focus on prep, allowing students to dedicate themselves fully to studying without the distraction of coursework.

Lisa Sawyer, a parent from East Grand Rapids, shared her experience with her children. She said that tutoring and summer camps helped her son improve his SAT score. However, she acknowledged that the cost of these services can be a barrier for some students.

College Board provides free test prep materials through platforms like Bluebook and Khan Academy. These resources offer sample questions and full-length practice tests, making it easier for students to prepare without spending extra money.

Retaking the Test

For students who aren’t satisfied with their initial scores, retaking the test can be beneficial. Flint emphasized the importance of reflecting on the reasons behind a lower score and using that time to focus on targeted areas. Inman agreed, noting that retaking the test without changing strategies often leads to similar results.

Students should research the typical score ranges of the colleges they’re interested in before deciding to retake. Retaking the SAT costs $68, but some students may qualify for fee waivers. The ACT also has a registration fee of $68, with additional costs for optional sections.

Ultimately, the college admissions process is dynamic and ever-changing. Students must stay informed, seek guidance, and make choices that align with their goals and circumstances.