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November 30, 2022 48 mins

As more and more colleges switch to test optional admission policies, parents begin to wonder whether or not students should still take the SAT or ACT? To put it simply, the answer is yes. If you want to maximize your chances of getting into your dream college, these tests could be the advantage you need. Elizabeth talks with Dr. Al Benthall today about the history behind these tests, the current political views surrounding the tests, and why your student should still take them….. and take them seriously. Dr. Al Benthall, is the founder and owner of Benthall Test Prep which specializes in helping students achieve optimal SAT scores.  

Connect with Dr. Al Benthall:

Website
LinkedIn

3 Key takeaways from the podcast are:  

  • When in doubt, take the test (SAT or ACT). If two candidates are identical in their GPA and extracurricular activities, but one candidate submitted their test scores. Chances are the college will choose the student who submitted the scores. 
  • Optional is code for Do It! Anytime a college leaves a section optional on an application, fill that section out and take full advantage of this opportunity to make yourself stand out, tell more of your story. 
  • If you have a lower GPA, taking the SAT or ACT is a chance to earn a high score and make yourself a more competitive applicant. Don’t be afraid to take the test more than once to give yourself a better edge.

The Admissions Club Podcast is your one-stop shop for all things college admissions, complete with a nostalgic 80s playlist and Gen X vibes. It’s hard to believe that we’ve traded in scrunchies and Bruce Springsteen posters for walking our kids through the college admissions process!  But, I’m here to share my 25 years of higher education experience, with 10 years of direct college admissions experience, with you and your student so you don’t have to walk it alone.

Connect with Elizabeth!

The Admissions Club Podcast is your one-stop shop for all things college admissions, complete with a nostalgic 80s playlist and Gen X vibes. It’s hard to believe that we’ve traded in scrunchies and Bruce Springsteen posters for walking our kids through the college admissions process! But, we are here to share our experience in higher education and direct college admissions with you and your student so you don’t have to walk it alone.

Connect with EWC!

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