SAT/ACT
Test-Optional
Reach, Target, & Safety
Reach, Target, & Safety
Testing sites:
SAT https://www.collegeboard.org/
Should I still try the SAT or ACT if my colleges are test-optional?
Which one should I take?
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/act-vs-sat/
https://www.crimsoneducation.org/us/blog/sat-vs-act-whats-the-difference/
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/act-vs-sat-how-to-decide-which-test-to-take
Which colleges are still test-optional? (Always check the school's website to confirm)
fairtest.org/test-optional-list/
What is superscore and score choice?
https://www.compassprep.com/superscore-and-score-choice/
How do you know if a school is a reach, target, or safety? See below for more info. Use the 'middle 50%' of GPA/test scores/rigor of the previously accepted class. Here is the Rutgers admissions profile:
https://admissions.rutgers.edu/sites/default/files/2021-09/2021%20Admissions%20Profile.pdf
What is the Common Data Set and how do I use it to search for statistics of previously accepted students?
https://www.road2college.com/what-is-the-common-data-set/
https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/common-data-set
Advice from college counselor Robin Kaminsky:
A likely (or safety) is a school which typically accepts 50-75% of applicants or more, the student is at the top 25% of admitted applicants, AND family has deemed school affordable based on net price calculator, need aid, merit trends, and published auto merit
A Target (or Match) may accept between 33%-50% of applicants and the student is in the top 50-75% of admitted students, has been deemed affordable based on above factors
A Reach school admits less than 25% of applicants OR where the students stats are at or below the school's 25%, OR any school where the likelihood of receiving scholarships, grants, or aid is not favorable based on need or merit and exceeds affordability.
Factors that affect admission:
In state vs. out of state (lots of public flagships give major preference to in state applicants (UNC and Georgia for example)
Early Decision/Early Action-some schools will accept the majority of their incoming class in the early rounds
Do your research and CAST A WIDE NET.
https://admissions.rutgers.edu/sites/default/files/2023-08/2023%20Desk%20Reference%20Card-08172023_QR.pdf