Great College Advice

JANUARY 28, 2025

Extracurricular Exploration : Try various activities to discover genuine interests. 10th Grade: Gaining Momentum Sophomore year is about refining academic and extracurricular focus while beginning standardized test preparation. Standardized Testing : Take the PSAT for practice.

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Ivy College Essay

AUGUST 22, 2023

In recent times, standardized testing policies for Ivy League universities have undergone significant changes, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and growing concerns about equity in college admissions. If you excel in standardized testing, you have the option to showcase your strength through these scores.

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Spark Admissions

APRIL 11, 2023

According to Columbia, this move was prompted by a growing recognition of the flaws in standardized testing and the school’s desire to make the admissions process more equitable and accessible to a broader range of students. For decades, standardized tests have been central to the college admissions process.

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Spark Admissions

APRIL 11, 2023

According to Columbia, this move was prompted by a growing recognition of the flaws in standardized testing and the school’s desire to make the admissions process more equitable and accessible to a broader range of students. For decades, standardized tests have been central to the college admissions process.

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AdmissionSight

NOVEMBER 17, 2024

The admissions committee’s job goes beyond just evaluating GPAs and test scores. They want to understand you beyond your academic record, examining everything from your extracurricular activities to your personal essay to assess how you could contribute to the university’s community.

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HelloCollege

FEBRUARY 11, 2025

Section 1: When to Start Thinking About the SAT and ACT It bares repeating: It’s never too early to start thinking about standardized testing, even if the test dates seem far off. In essence, the journey toward standardized test readiness begins not in the months leading up to the test but in the years preceding it.

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Spark Admissions

JUNE 20, 2023

You filled out a form, your high school sent your class rank and standardized test scores, maybe you wrote a brief essay, and you heard back in the spring. Even college counselors at private schools really only help rising seniors, and they don’t make recommendations about extracurriculars, summer activities, or strategy.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 16, 2025

The university isnt just looking for students with perfect grades and test scores, and it prioritizes well-rounded applicants with standout extracurriculars, leadership experience, and compelling personal stories. Strong extracurriculars, compelling essays, and a well-rounded application are a must.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 24, 2025

While admissions officers primarily focus on your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities, poor attendance can indirectly impact your academic performance and teacher recommendations. For most schools, the main focus is on your grades, test scores , essays , and extracurricular activities. The reality?

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Spark Admissions

JUNE 7, 2023

Strong candidates for Ivy League schools are able to present both exceptionally strong grades and a rigorous course load (as in, many Honors, Advanced, and AP- or IB-level courses). A strong test score can fortify an applicant’s other academic and intellectual strengths in the admissions process.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 16, 2025

Standardized test scores. Unlike test-optional schools , Georgetown requires either the SAT or ACT. Extracurriculars. They care about the rigor of your school record, your GPA, and your test scores. Outside of academics, Georgetown values extracurricular activities , special talents, and personal qualities.

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Great College Advice

JULY 25, 2023

One of the most-oft questions I get from families is some version of this: “Which is more important — grades or extracurricular activities? Grades are more important than your extracurricular activities. And they are recorded and presented to college admissions offices on your transcript. Here’s the answer.

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Ivy College Essay

AUGUST 1, 2024

Standardized Tests: Although some Ivy League schools have adopted test-optional policies, high scores on the SAT or ACT can still strengthen your application. Additionally, consider taking SAT Subject Tests in areas where you excel to further showcase your strengths. Aim for scores in the 95th percentile or higher.

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College Essay Guy

JANUARY 23, 2025

For example, if you maintain a high GPA, score well on standardized tests, or demonstrate exceptional talent in music or sports, you might qualify for a merit scholarship. In other words, they determine your aid based on your familys financial situation, not your academic or extracurricular achievements. GPA, but you have a 3.2.

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The Koppelman Group

FEBRUARY 20, 2025

It could include an internship with a local expert in a field youre interested in (either an academic or a business leader), or even independent research with the goal of publication or presentation. For this reason, we dont recommend stressing about standardized tests if they arent your thing. But what about the SAT or ACT?

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Top Tier Admissions

OCTOBER 4, 2024

Many students who’ve just barely survived the wringer of junior year— with AP courses, standardized test prep, and campus visits ramping up college admissions pressure—are already feeling weary. Admissions readers will put more emphasis on your academic record, Common App personal statement, and extracurricular profile.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 26, 2025

To maximize your chances, focus on showcasing your achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal experiences that make you a great fit for the university. Standardized test scores (optional). NYU is test-optional , meaning you can decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. of students had a perfect 4.0

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HelloCollege

DECEMBER 31, 2024

Teaching Methods and Approaches Classroom teaching typically involves various methods, including lectures, discussions, group activities, and multimedia presentations. Exam Preparation: Offering focused sessions to prepare for standardized tests, midterms, or final exams, ensuring students are well-equipped to succeed.

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Princeton College Consulting

SEPTEMBER 16, 2019

If you do hope to go the pre-med route in college, you’ll need to have high grades and test scores, but also impressive extracurricular activities. Why Extracurriculars Matter So Much. With some exceptions, most students who apply to extremely selective colleges and universities have the highest-tier grades and test scores.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 20, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). Pomona is test-optional , so you dont have to submit SAT or ACT scores. Outside of academics, Pomona puts a lot of weight on extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and talents. If your SAT scores are close but not quite there, consider retaking the test to boost your chances.

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Top Tier Admissions

MAY 30, 2023

In addition to working on every stage of your college strategy and applications, the best private college admissions counselors help students set goals, explore options, and assess their academic and extracurricular profiles. Is it worth risking a B in an Honors class, or better to get an A in a standard level?

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Ivy Central

APRIL 10, 2023

Academic classes are held Monday-Friday with extracurricular activities available in the evenings and on the weekends. Academic classes are held Monday-Friday with extracurricular activities available in the evenings and on the weekends. Students work collaboratively in teams and present their final projects at the end of the program.

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Ivy Central

MAY 2, 2023

The Claremont Colleges boast a unique consortium that benefits from the diverse missions, character, and culture of each institution and the integration of academic and extracurricular programs. The faculty members encourage students to collaborate and present at professional conferences.

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Shemmassian Academic Consulting

JULY 9, 2023

This became especially true in 2020, given changes in test administration and colleges’ testing policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Philosophically, test-optional colleges signal to applicants that there are many forms of intelligence, educational access, and achievement. Maybe she was sick the day she took the test.

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AdmissionSight

NOVEMBER 24, 2024

Stay organized, seek guidance when needed, and focus on presenting an authentic, well-rounded application. You can self-report test scores through the Common Application or Coalition on Scoir, and if admitted, you’ll need to send official reports. It’s about showing that you’ve tackled a tough course load and succeeded.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 4, 2025

However, if your GPA isnt quite there, strong test scores and impressive extracurriculars can help balance things out. Target test scores Northwestern remains test-optional for the Class of 2029, meaning you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application. Extracurriculars.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 12, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). Wellesley is test-optional , so submitting SAT or ACT scores is up to you. Extracurricular activities. Wellesleys art, music, and theatre departments accept electronic submissions of portfolios, recordings, or presentations. Your senior year matters.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 12, 2025

Standardized test scores (optional). Vanderbilt is test-optional , but strong scores can add a little sparkle to your application. But heres the thing: Vanderbilt knows youre more than just a collection of grades and test scores. Extracurricular activities and personal qualities matter just as much. No problem.

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 1, 2025

Standardized test scores. UC Berkeley is test-free, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the application review process. Extracurricular activities. Extracurriculars matter too, whether its sports, leadership, or volunteer work. Show how youll contribute to campus life with your extracurriculars.

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AdmissionSight

FEBRUARY 7, 2025

Extracurricular activities. Standardized test scores (optional). Harvey Mudd is test-optional for students applying through Fall 2026. Beyond academics, they care about your extracurricular activities, talents, and the qualities that make you who you are. If standardized tests arent your strong suit, dont sweat it.

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Princeton College Consulting

JUNE 5, 2023

After a grueling junior year filled with AP courses and standardized tests, there is no doubt that soon-to-be high school seniors have earned some rest and relaxation. Prepare for Standardized Tests More colleges are becoming test optional, but the SAT and ACT are still very important for admission to most selective colleges.

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Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 10, 2024

In summary, it allows applicants to choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. Regardless of whether they go test-optional, applicants should present a comprehensive profile demonstrating their interests, strengths, and accomplishments. Should I go test-optional?

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AdmissionSight

MARCH 27, 2023

Thus, investing time and effort into creating unforgettable high school events enriches students’ lives in the present and lays the groundwork for a lifetime of fond memories, personal growth, and meaningful connections. What Is the Role of Extracurricular Activities in Student Life?

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Solomon Admissions

APRIL 12, 2023

They can help students research and compare schools based on factors like location, size, academic programs, and extracurricular activities. They can advise on the different parts of the application, such as the essay, and help students understand how to present themselves in the best light.

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Next Admit College Admissions Blog

JUNE 14, 2024

Additionally, while the top 25% of Math scores may approach perfection, Notre Dame considers a holistic view of applicants, recognizing that excellence extends beyond standardized test scores. However, applicants are encouraged to present materials they believe enhance their application, including SAT or ACT scores.

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Ivy College Essay

JANUARY 2, 2024

Personal Statement: The personal statement is your opportunity to present a comprehensive picture of who you are as a student and individual, and is THE most important part of your transfer application. These could include a portfolio for certain art programs, additional standardized test scores, or a writing sample.

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Top Tier Admissions

JULY 25, 2024

And as the first selective school to revert to requiring standardized testing after the pandemic, MIT has never hesitated to do things in its own way – with purpose. Has this work been submitted, presented, and/or published in other academic venues? This signals MIT’s emphasis on quality over quantity.

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