As March approaches, juniors at Preuss are pulling out the weighty 900 page book, carving an hour a day, and doing a bunch of practice problems to start frantically studying for College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). This exam used to bring a lot of stress to students because it was required for college applications and was considered when reviewing a student’s application. But, as a result of the pandemic and quarantine, colleges have decided to make the SAT optional.

Although this exam has become test optional for private school and test blind for UC’s, juniors at Preuss still decide to take the SAT because it boosts their applications and it’s something to fall back on in case colleges begin to start considering this exam again. Students who take the SAT are making good decisions for their college future because if a student received a high score on the SAT, it will strengthen their application. If they received an unsatisfactory score, they are not required to report it. Colleges will also appreciate that the student took the initiative to take the test, even if it’s only an option.

However, the SAT can invoke disappointment with a low score, which causes students to stray away from even taking the exam in fear of a low score. But taking the exam still holds value, and students should understand that this exam does not define capability or worth. It’s a standardized exam that needs to be studied apart from core classes, which makes it difficult to study for. Thus, the exam should only be taken for boosting college applications and illustrating initiative to the admission office.

There are many resources on campus to support taking and studying for the SAT. Ms. Bandy can help set up the date and provide SAT books. Math and English teachers are a great support in preparing for their respective sections of the exam. Various organizations such as Bridge for Kids and Access Youth Academy also provide resources and classes for students who are planning to partake in the exam. Of course, Khan Academy, in partnership with College Board, also has many tests and videos to help prepare.

Therefore, all students at Preuss should consider taking the SAT regardless of what score they receive. If the score is acceptable, then it will be a great addition to their college application. Taking the test will only benefit the students, not hurt them. A low score on the SAT is much better than no score at all.