Should You Study for the SATs?

By Orli Trumbull (Sophomore)

It is becoming increasingly unclear as to how much time students should spend studying for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). For the past few years many schools have remained test optional, resulting in less emphasis on standardized testing. However, as we leave COVID years behind us, it is possible that colleges will revert back to standardized testing.

During Covid, some colleges, like California state universities (CSU), totally rejected the SAT and instead relied on essays and grades to shrink their pool of applicants. “Test blind” schools account for 8.5% of the top 200 colleges. Others, like MIT and the University of Florida, have reverted back to their pre-COVID SAT requirements. These schools have decided that SAT scores are extremely important when choosing from their pool of applicants. They account for 5.5% of colleges. The schools mentioned above are in the minority. More than 80% of schools remain test optional, however more schools have been reverting back to their pre-COVID testing requirements.

Recently, Yale made headlines by announcing that applicants are required to submit an SAT or ACT score, expressing that they need the metric. The school is receiving backlash for their decision after saying that the change will increase admission chances for underprivileged applicants. Research has found that families who have a higher yearly income have a higher SAT score, while lower yearly income families have lower testing scores. Wealthier families can provide resources, time and support for their children. It is also easier for wealthier families to cover the 60+ dollar fee to retake the test. This research shows that requiring the SAT will actually decrease admission chances for underprivileged applicants.

SAT scores do not only have an influence in test mandatory schools. The scores also play a factor in test optional colleges, where a high score may qualify you for scholarships or an honors college.

At Obama Academy the SAT is a mandatory event. While scoring high is the goal, the amount of time spent studying for the SAT may depend on what college you plan to attend. If you are considering a CSU or many of the test optional colleges, studying might not be your top priority. Mr. Ehman, the IB director, says he loves test optional because “you can take the time you are studying for the SAT and put it towards your school work and extracurriculars.”

As schools continue to announce if they will remain test optional for another application period, it is important for students to responsibly delegate time to studying for the SAT.