ACT, Blog and Testing - New Student Pulse

Breaking News: Stanford Reinstates Standardized Testing

Top Tier Admissions

JUNE 7, 2024

Stanford will reintroduce standardized testing requirements for undergraduate admissions starting in fall 2025 for admission to the Class of 2030. For rising seniors (students applying in fall 2024), Stanford will remain test-optional.

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Coming Soon: Major Changes to the ACT

Discovery College Consulting

SEPTEMBER 3, 2024

Not only are today’s high school students being affected by frequent changes in colleges’ testing policies (as described in a recent blog post ), they also have another upcoming change to contend with: next year, the ACT will switch to a digital format, in addition to undergoing other alterations.

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Breaking News: Johns Hopkins Reinstates Standardized Testing

Top Tier Admissions

AUGUST 26, 2024

Johns Hopkins University will reintroduce standardized testing requirements beginning with those seeking admission for the fall 2026 semester to the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences or the Whiting School of Engineering. Most recently, Stanford University announced it would once again require students to submit test scores.

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What Are the ACT Test Changes?

Peterson's Blog

OCTOBER 17, 2024

million high school seniors took the ACT test in 2023 according to ACT.com and now ACT is making ACT test changes. In light of falling average test scores among that group, It’s rare for a standardized test to change based on student, teacher, and administrator feedback. What is the ACT?

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Standardized Testing and Its Role in College Admissions

Top Tier Admissions

JUNE 4, 2024

In this ever-changing college admissions landscape, the role of standardized testing remains a hot topic (and source of confusion). Understanding how these tests fit into the broader admissions process can help demystify their purpose and highlight strategies you can use to enhance your applications.

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Key SAT & ACT Dates: Are You Ready?

Top Tier Admissions

JULY 22, 2024

As the school year approaches, it’s time to finalize your standardized test prep plan and mark your calendar with upcoming SAT and ACT test dates. Not sure which test is your forte? In an ideal world, we recommend beginning one-on-one test prep a few months ahead of your scheduled test date.

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UT Austin Shake-Up: Testing Required and a New Early Action Program

Top Tier Admissions

MARCH 15, 2024

UT AUSTIN: STANDARDIZED TESTING REQUIRED After four years of test-optional admissions for undergraduate admissions, the University of Texas at Austin will once again require standardized testing scores , beginning with applications for the Fall 2025 semester. ACT Tutoring Hit your target score with our renowned ACT tutors.

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Unexpected ACT Test Prep Tool: Reflection

Peterson's Blog

SEPTEMBER 11, 2024

Reflection helps us redefine and make sense of our experiences—offering valuable insights for personal growth, making it an unexpected ACT test prep tool. In the ACT, success isn’t just about what you know, but how well you apply it. The ACT introduces constraints, and how you respond to them can greatly affect your score.

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College Admissions- Middle 50%, Test Optional (… and Country Music?)

Georgia Tech Admissions Blog

NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Back When Middle 50% ranges- There was a time when publishing the middle 50% GPA and SAT/ACT range of admitted students was extremely helpful. GPAs were more uniform and test scores were required of all applicants. This is exacerbated for test scores due to the test optional trend. I am not anti-test optional.

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Testing Admissions GPA Out-of-State

Do You Need Both ACT and SAT for College?

Peterson's Blog

JANUARY 7, 2025

Standardized test scores, like the SAT and ACT, determine academic readiness and skills for entering university. While it may be beneficial to take both tests, this blog will answer the question, “Do you need both ACT and SAT for college? What Are the ACT and SAT?

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To Test or Not to Test?

Admissions Village

FEBRUARY 25, 2024

I want to thank my colleague Meg Joyce for co-writing this blog post with me. Test scores and test-optional admissions, which have been in the spotlight for several years now, are getting renewed attention as of late. Many colleges have still not decided if they will become permanently test-optional for admissions.

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What is Score Choice, Superscoring, and Test Flexible?

Scoir

AUGUST 10, 2023

Most people venturing into the college admission process have heard about the SAT and the ACT tests. Words like score choice, superscoring, self-reporting, test flexible, and test optional can be super confusing and stress-inducing. In this blog post, we break these concepts down in a way that is simple to understand.

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What You Need to Know About Columbia University

Ivy Central

MARCH 22, 2023

In this blog post, we will dive into some key data about Columbia University to help you get a better sense of what makes it such a special place. If you are considering applying to Columbia, we hope this blog post has provided you with some useful information to help you decide if it will be a good fit for you.

Ivy League

Ivy League University University Early Decision

2025 In-State EA Decision Information

UGA Undergraduate Admissions Q & A

NOVEMBER 22, 2024

I have a previous blog post on how admissions calculates the UGA GPA for your reference. Mid 50% Admitted Average SAT (EBRW+M): 1350-1510 -This is data for students who were admitted with the SAT being the highest or only test score in their review.

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In-State GPA Out-of-State Transcripts

Emory University Remains Test Optional for 2023-2024

Inside Emory Admission

MARCH 29, 2023

>> Updated March, 2023 Emory University has extended its test optional policy for applicants who plan to enroll as first-year students in Fall 2024. In addition, transfer applicants for Fall 2024 can also take advantage of this test optional policy. Emory will continue to superscore the ACT and SAT.

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ACT Study Plan—Create Yours!

Peterson's Blog

SEPTEMBER 19, 2024

Crafting an ACT Study Plan can feel like a daunting task if you are unsure where to disperse your ACT test prep efforts. In our last blog, we discussed the importance of reflection as an ACT test-taking strategy for diagnostic tests in evaluating areas of strength and growth, which will be key in shaping your study efforts.

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SAT or ACT? Updates for 2023-4

Expert Admissions

MARCH 20, 2023

With so many colleges extending test-optional policies put in place during the pandemic, you may be wondering how much effort you should put into standardized testing. And even where there isn’t such a preference, a strong test score can only help you by adding yet another compelling piece of data to your application.

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How Much Does ACT/SAT Tutoring Cost?

HelloCollege

JANUARY 21, 2025

When planning for college , standardized test scores still stand out as one of the most important factors in applying to college. But one of the most common questions is, “How much does ACT/SAT tutoring cost?” How Much Does ACT/SAT Tutoring Cost?

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Standardized Testing Policies: A Shifting Landscape

Top Tier Admissions

MAY 20, 2024

Test-optional? Test-flexible? Test-blind? Test-neutral? Test-recommended? Test-aware? While many universities have announced post-pandemic admissions policies that re-instate mandatory standardized test scores, there is still no consensus. SAT Tutoring Expert one-on-one guidance to boost your score.

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The 7 Best Test Optional Colleges: A Quick Guide

AdmissionSight

NOVEMBER 16, 2024

Not everyone feels confident when it comes to taking tests. You’re not alone— around 40 to 60% of high school students experience test anxiety, a type of stress that makes it tough to focus and perform well during exams. As a high school student, you’re probably no stranger to big tests like AP exams, the PSAT, or the SAT and ACT.

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Testing Standardized Testing SAT Policies

2024 UGA In-State EA Decisions

UGA Undergraduate Admissions Q & A

NOVEMBER 17, 2023

I have a previous blog post on how admissions calculates the UGA GPA for your reference. Mid 50% Admitted Average SAT (EBRW+M): 1340-1510 -This is data for students who were admitted with the SAT being the highest or only test score in their review.

In-State

In-State Financial Aid Out-of-State GPA

University of Miami Reinstates Standardized Testing

Top Tier Admissions

JANUARY 21, 2025

Starting with the Fall 2026 application cycle, undergraduate applicants will once again be required to submit standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) as part of their application. This marks a shift from the test-optional policy adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. ENROLL NOW What Does This Mean for College Admissions?

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Duke ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

APRIL 24, 2024

Duke University sets high standards for its applicants, and standardized testing is a crucial aspect of the college application process. This article delves into Duke-specific ACT requirements and Duke ACT scores, shedding light on what it takes to succeed in admissions. What is the average ACT score at Duke University?

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Northwestern ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

MAY 4, 2024

Northwestern University holds high standards for its applicants, and although many schools are now test-optional, standardized testing remains a significant aspect of the college application process. This article provides insights into Northwestern-specific ACT requirements and Northwestern ACT scores.

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RPI ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 30, 2024

In this article, we will dive into the ACT scores and requirements for RPI. What is the average ACT score at RPI? As one would expect, RPI ACT scores are competitive. The average score at RPI hovers around 33 , out of the maximum ACT score of 36. What are RPI’s ACT requirements? Should I go test-optional?

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UConn ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 25, 2024

In this article, we will explore the UConn ACT scores and requirements. What is the average ACT score at the University of Connecticut? Reflecting UConn’s commitment to academic excellence, the average composite ACT score is 31 , out of a maximum possible 36. The average ACT English score at UConn is 31.

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Purdue ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 8, 2024

Purdue University , known for its strong academic programs and innovative research , has specific expectations for ACT scores. This article will provide a detailed look into Purdue’s ACT requirements and what prospective students should know. What is the average ACT score at Purdue University? What are Purdue’s ACT requirements?

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Syracuse ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

AUGUST 1, 2024

What is the average ACT score at Syracuse? In keeping with its reputation for academic excellence, Syracuse’s average composite ACT score falls around 30 , out of the maximum possible 36 points. What is the average ACT English score at Syracuse? Here, we will break down the Syracuse ACT English and Math score statistics.

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Vanderbilt ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 13, 2024

In this article, we will explore how these expectations extend to Vanderbilt’s ACT scores and requirements. What is the average ACT score at Vanderbilt University? As expected from a prestigious institution, Vanderbilt’s ACT scores are highly competitive. What is the average ACT English score at Vanderbilt?

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Rice ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 12, 2024

In this article, we will explore Rice-specific ACT requirements and Rice ACT scores, shedding light on the academic expectations of the university. Reflecting its dedication to academic excellence, Rice University’s average composite ACT score falls at approximately 35 , out of a maximum of 36 points.

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Northeastern ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 20, 2024

In this article, we will explore the Northeastern ACT scores and requirements. What is the average ACT score at Northeastern? In keeping with its reputation of academic excellence, Northeastern’s average composite ACT score falls around a 34 , out of the maximum possible 36 points. What are Northeastern’s ACT requirements?

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Tufts ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 1, 2024

In this article, we’ll explore the ACT scores and requirements for Tufts. What is the average ACT score at Tufts? In keeping with its reputation of academic excellence, Tufts’ average composite ACT score falls around a 34 , out of the maximum possible 36 points. What are Tufts’ ACT requirements?

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ACT Standardized Testing SAT Extracurricular

Emory ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 20, 2024

This article explores Emory’s ACT scores and requirements, so that prospective students can understand what it takes to gain admission. What is the average ACT score at Emory? In keeping with its reputation for academic excellence, the average composite ACT score at Emory is around 33 out of the maximum possible 36 points.

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Lehigh ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 9, 2024

In addition, Lehigh’s admissions team maintains high expectations for their applicants, including with regard to standardized testing scores. This article dives into the details of Lehigh ACT scores and requirements. What is the average ACT score at Lehigh? What is the average ACT English score at Lehigh?

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UVA ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 21, 2024

This article dives into the UVA ACT scores and requirements, highlighting what prospective students need to know before applying. What is the average ACT score at the University of Virginia? UVA’s high standards are reflected in its ACT scores. What is the average ACT English score at the University of Virginia?

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Santa Clara ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 31, 2024

In this article, we will explore the ACT scores and requirements for Santa Clara University. What is the average ACT score at Santa Clara University? As one would expect from a prestigious institution, Santa Clara University ACT scores are competitive. What are Santa Clara University’s ACT requirements?

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Notre Dame ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 14, 2024

Let’s explore the specifics of Notre Dame’s ACT scores and requirements. What is the average ACT score at Notre Dame? Reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, Notre Dame’s average composite ACT score stands around 34 out of 36, surpassing the national average significantly. Should I go test-optional?

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ACT Standardized Testing SAT Extracurricular

Georgia Tech ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 11, 2024

In this article, we will dive into Georgia Tech’s ACT requirements and ACT scores. What is the average ACT score at Georgia Tech? Maintaining its reputation for academic excellence, Georgia Tech boasts an average composite ACT score of around 33 , out of a maximum possible score of 36.

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ACT Standardized Testing SAT Transcripts

Virginia Tech ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JULY 16, 2024

This article provides a detailed breakdown of Virginia Tech’s ACT score requirements and expectations. What is the average ACT score at Virginia Tech? Virginia Tech’s average composite ACT score is 30 out of the maximum possible 36 points. What is the average ACT English score at Virginia Tech?

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UMass Amherst ACT Scores: Full Breakdown

Next Admit College Admissions Blog

AUGUST 2, 2024

In this article, we will explore UMass Amherst’s ACT scores and requirements. What is the average ACT score at UMass Amherst? UMass Amherst maintains competitive ACT scores among its applicants. The average composite ACT score at UMass Amherst is 31 out of the maximum possible 36. The 25th percentile score is 27.

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