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What is the importance of Entrance Exams in students life?

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Entrance examinations act as qualification exams for admission to higher studies in various reputed institutions of the world. They can be of various types, actually.

Some competitive and entrance exams include the ones that non-native English speakers have to appear for, such as the TOEFL and the IELTS. Others include testing for admission into a range of particular courses related to a discipline, such as the JEE for engineering courses and NEET for medical courses. Another type is the generic exams held for graduate and postgraduate level studies, like the GRE.

What importance do these entrance exams hold in the Indian scenario? What do they put the students up against, and what do they evaluate? We give you all the details to understand the importance of competitive exams to help you decide which one you want to prepare for.

What do competitive examinations test? Competitive examinations like JEE and NEET are crucial because of the sheer number of students applying for limited seats. Due to the high competition and the importance of the courses in the country’s leading institutes, it becomes paramount to choose the best candidates. These papers test the persistence, hard work, and effort of students. When there is the pressure of finishing a certain number of questions in a fixed amount of time, the calm and composure of a candidate is also tested. This is why entrance examinations are so important since they test the candidate on various levels.

They act as a boon for students For those students who are excellent in the core subjects, but cannot secure good aggregate marks due to subjects like English, entrance exams provide a fantastic outlet. They give students a chance to excel and to make it to the institute of their choice.

Entrance exams install hard work and time management qualities in students. In today’s world, the value of discipline, hard work, and time management is incredibly high. Entrance exams require an enormous amount of preparation, which demands time from the students. This preparation needs to be done by following a strict schedule, managing time effectively, and giving equal importance to all subjects. This requires students to work extremely hard to achieve the results that they want to.

But every time the sky isn’t pink, Some people believe that entrance exams promote unhealthy competition among students. They make students anxious and stressed, instilling a fear of failure in their minds. Some students do tend to suffer a negative impact from these entrance exams, but with proper guidance and counselling, all these negatives can be flipped into positives.

Entrance exams have become a stepping stone into the rest of their lives for students. They provide candidates with an opportunity to make it to their desired higher studies courses, no matter their board results. Therefore, entrance exams have become sort of a household name in the Indian education system

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College Entrance Exams — What Admissions Tests to Take and How to Prepare

High school students often have many questions regarding college tests. Which tests do colleges care about most? How do colleges use test scores? There are many different tests that high school students can take in preparation for college and college admissions.

Top 7 Entrance Exams and College Tests

• ACT (American College Test)
• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
• SAT Subject Tests (formerly SAT II)
• CLT (Classic Learning Test)
• AP Test (Advanced Placement Test)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• GED (General Education Development)

The main college entrance exams are the ACT and the SAT. The CLT is a newer alternative that is accepted by a small number of colleges. Colleges and universities, especially highly selective schools, may also require SAT Subject Tests. International students may be required to include a TOEFL score in their application to U.S. based schools.

How Do Colleges Use Entrance Exams?

College entrance exams are used by admissions counselors to evaluate applicants from different high schools and locations. For example, if an admissions counselor from one of the colleges in the pacific northwest is comparing an applicant from California with a 3.7 GPA to an applicant from New York with the same GPA—are the two students equally prepared, capable and meriting admission? Entrance exams such as the ACT and SAT help answer this question.

How important are test scores?

Some colleges require a minimum ACT or SAT score that applicants must have earned from an entrance exam in order to be admissible. Other schools look at the applicant holistically and utilize test scores as just one piece of the whole picture in making the admissions decision.

Many schools will publish the average SAT and ACT scores of incoming freshmen of the previous year. Knowing the average college entrance exam score for a university can help determine if you are a good candidate for admission at that school.

Colleges can also use test scores in other ways. In addition to qualifying a student for admission, a high test score can also qualify the student for merit-based scholarships. Math and English sections of college entrance exams are often used to place students in the appropriate first math and English classes at the university.

1. ACT (American College Test)

The ACT has four sections of multiple-choice questions (English, Math, Reading, and Science) plus an optional Writing section. The exam itself is 2 hours and 55 minutes or 3 hours 35 minutes with the Writing section. Each section is scored on a 1-36 scale. Your composite score is an average of the four sections with the highest score being a 36. The highest score possible on the Writing section is 12. The optional Writing section does not impact the composite score.

The four sections have the following time limits, with a 10-minute break after the Math section:

English: In this 75 multiple-choice section, students have 45 minutes to show their skills in grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and rhetorical skills.

Math: This 60-minute section has 60 multiple-choice questions. Students are permitted to use a calculator from the list of approved calculators. Students will show their skills in Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Trigonometry and are expected to know some basic formulas as they will not be provided.

Reading: Students will have 35 minutes to answer 40 multiple-choice questions on four passages (10 questions per passage). This reading comprehension test measures the ability to read closely, reason logically about texts, and integrate information.

Science: In the Science section, students have 35 minutes to answer 40 multiple-choice questions. Students read science-based passages utilizing graphs, charts, tables, and research. Students are asked to interpret data, analyze and evaluate scientific information (such as experimental results), draw conclusions, and make predictions.

ACT exams are offered seven Saturdays each year. When you register with ACT online, you will choose your test date and your testing site (often a local high school or college will host the exam). You need to register by the registration deadline for the date you choose, typically about a month prior to the exam. To register, you will need a computer with internet, a credit card or other payment, and a headshot photo. You will also be asked to provide information about your high school courses. Registration takes about 45 minutes.

2. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

There are two main sections of the SAT. You will earn a score from 200-800 for each section and your total score will be from 400 to 1600. The first section is called Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and it is comprised of two tests: The Reading test and the Writing and Language test.

The second part of the SAT is the Math test, which has two portions: The Math Test—Calculator and the Math Test—No Calculator. The SAT is a three-hour exam, not including breaks, with an optional 50-minute essay. There is a 10-minute break between the Reading test and the Writing and Language test, plus a five-minute break between the two parts of the Math test.

Reading: This section allows 65 minutes for students to answer 52 multiple-choice questions based on five passages. The passages cover a variety of topics, but you can expect one from literature, history, and social studies, and two from science. The types of questions vary as well. You may be asked to find the main idea of a passage, determine the meaning of a word in context, and determine how the author’s word choice impacts the style and tone of a passage.

Writing and Language: In this section, you are asked to edit writing samples using standard English conventions, such as grammar and sentence structure, to improve sections of passages. You will be asked to improve word choice and to strengthen the argument of a passage. You have 35 minutes to answer the 44 multiple-choice questions in this section.

Math: Students have 80 minutes to complete the SAT Math test, which is divided into two parts. In the “No-Calculator” section, you have 25 minutes to answer 20 questions (15 multiple choice questions and 5 grid-in questions). In the “Math with Calculator” section, students have 55 minutes to answer 38 questions (30 multiple-choice questions and 8 grid-in questions).

Grid-in questions are also called “student-produced response questions.”  Instead of choosing the correct answer from a list of options, students must enter the answer they calculated using the grids provided on the answer sheet. SAT describes the areas of math covered in this test as Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math , as well as Additional Topics of Math that includes geometry and trigonometry.

SAT exams are offered seven Saturdays each year by the organization College Board®. When you register online, pay attention to the registration deadlines (approximately one month prior to each exam). You will choose the test date and location for your exam, upload a headshot photo and pay the registration fee.

3. SAT Subject Tests

What are sat subject tests.

SAT Subject Tests are a collection of college entrance exams that focus on individual subjects. These tests can improve your admission credentials, however, not all colleges and universities require or consider SAT Subject Tests in their evaluation of applicants. As you prepare for college admissions, it is important to look at the requirements of each school you are interested in attending. If a college requires SAT Subject Tests, you should choose the subjects that you have recently covered in advanced classes—at honors, IB, or AP level, if possible.

There are 20 SAT Subject Tests, based on high school courses in the areas of history, English, foreign languages, science, and math. Each Subject Test takes one hour. The questions are all multiple-choice and you will earn a score of 200-800. Subject Tests are given six times a year, on the same days and locations as the SAT. However, when you register, pay close attention to the dates, as not all Subject Tests are offered each time.

4. CLT (Classic Learning Test)

What is the clt.

The new kid on the block of college entrance exams in the CLT. It remains to be seen if it will grow in mainstream acceptance. For now, the CLT is accepted at a small number of colleges—notably Catholic colleges, Catholic universities, protestant Christian schools, as well as some secular liberal arts schools. It offers a slightly shorter exam—just two hours (not counting the optional essay). The CLT is taken online, and scores are reported on the same day.

It’s worth noting that the CLT also allows students to score higher than a perfect 1600 on the SAT or 36 on the ACT, as these scores are comparable to 114 on the CLT. But students can score as high as 120 on the CLT, allowing for greater differentiation among top students.

5. AP Test (Advanced Placement Test)

Many high schools offer AP (Advanced Placement) courses. Content of AP courses must be approved by the College Board®, which is the same organization that administers the SAT and SAT Subject Tests). AP exams are standardized tests taken in May at the completion of each AP course to measure mastery of course content and skills. Scores are on a scale from 1 to 5. Scores of 3, 4, or 5 have the potential of earning you college credit.

Most AP exams are 2 to 3 hours in length. The 38 exams are unique, although the first part of the exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions and the second part consists of free-response questions.

While AP scores are not typically considered college entrance exams, it may be wise to include your scores when you apply to college if you have earned a high score. If your score meets the college’s guidelines for earning college credit, you will want to make sure to have your score(s) sent to the college you end up attending.

6. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

What is the toefl.

TOEFL tests are designed and administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). This test provides a standardized way to measure the English skills of non-native speakers prior to enrolling in English-based colleges or other educational programs. TOEFL can be taken as a paper-based test but it is largely an internet-based test (TOEFL iBT is the full name of the test). The test is approximately 3 hours in length and has four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The score range for the TOEFL iBT exam is 0-120. Each section has a scale of 0-30 and the four scores are added together to earn the composite score.

7. GED (General Education Development)

The GED is a credential that can take the place of a high school diploma, allowing a student who did not complete high school to apply to college. A GED is earned by passing the GED test, which covers four subject areas--Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science. The four subjects can be taken one at a time or all at once at an official GED test center.

Registration for the GED test is completed online. The test is $120 ($30 per subject area) and includes two free retakes per subject area. Scores for each subject range from 100 to 200. A passing score of 145 (150 in New Jersey) in each subject area is required to earn high school equivalency. A score of 165 is considered “college ready” and a score of 175 could earn college credit. The GED is accepted in lieu of a high school diploma at most US colleges. Online registration closes 7 days before the desired test dates.

ACT vs SAT - What’s the Difference?

Do colleges prefer the act or the sat.

Both the ACT and the SAT can be used for admission to any college or university in the USA. Some schools require or recommend the optional writing section these tests offer, so be sure to research the requirements of the schools you are interested in attending. It is true that some schools “prefer” one test over the other, but there are official conversion tables that colleges use to translate your ACT composite score into the comparable SAT score and vice versa. While the tests are similar in many ways, there are some differences that can help students determine which test is a better fit.

In the SAT, math makes up half your score. If a student typically does well in the math section, then the SAT may be the best choice. Math is only one-fourth of the composite score on the ACT.

The SAT may be better for students who struggle with running out of time on exams. The SAT averages 48 seconds for each Writing and Language problem, while the ACT allows for only 36 seconds per question. The SAT allows 75 seconds for each reading problem and 83 seconds on average for each math problem, while the ACT allows only 52.5 seconds per question in the Reading section and just 60 seconds each in the Math section. If a student can focus well and work quickly, the ACT can be a great fit.

Calculators and Math Formulas

The ACT allows the use of calculators for the entire math section. The SAT has two math sections: one which allows calculators and one which does not. The SAT provides a reference sheet that contains some of the formulas needed, specifically geometric math formulas and three math laws. The ACT does not provide any formulas; students need to remember them. 

Essay Content: Understanding the Argument vs Making the Argument

The optional essay section on the ACT requires you to read a short passage about an issue, then write an essay analyzing the different points of view—while also making the argument for your own opinion.

The optional SAT essay requires you to use evidence and reasoning to analyze the argument used by the author of a passage. Students are directed to avoid offering an opinion on the issue. In the SAT essay, you only need to demonstrate an understanding of the argument.

How to Prepare for College Entrance Exams

If you are in high school, it is not too early to start preparing. By junior year, you should have a good idea how to prepare for college and how to choose a college . The first step to prepare for a college entrance exam is to choose which exam you are going to take.

Most students find that if they take an ACT practice exam and an SAT practice exam (you can find practice exams online or from your school counselor), score them, and compare the scores, there is a clear choice for which exam is a better fit. If you score about the same on each practice exam, ask yourself if you prefer one test over the other and focus on the test you like best. Alternatively, if you took the PSAT exam, and also a preACT exam or ACT Aspire, you can use your test scores from these practice tests to help you choose which college entrance exam is best for you.

Although the best preparation for a college entrance exam is to take challenging high school classes and apply yourself to your schoolwork, it is also helpful to prepare for your ACT or SAT using a test prep program. You can pay a lot of money for the expertise of a tutor or test prep center, and the benefit of the individual expert help will maximize your time spent on test preparation.

There are more affordable ways to study for your entrance exam. You can buy an official test prep book from ACT or SAT. The book will include practice problems and test-taking tips to help you review your knowledge, learn important rules and common types of questions, and help manage your time on exam day.

You can also practice for free online. SAT has partnered with Kahn Academy to provide free online SAT exam preparation. ACT recently released ACT Academy , a free online test preparation resource. When practicing for entrance exams, self-discipline is key. If you are close to your exam date, schedule a regular time each day to practice testing.

Many students plan to take the ACT or the SAT multiple times. Students often find that they can improve their scores after learning from the first experience. Since it is advisable to complete your testing by the end of your junior year, it may be wise to register for your first exam at the end of sophomore year or by early spring of your junior year. If you are only going to take the test once, plan for one right at the end of junior year. This can help minimize the chances of forgetting something important during summer vacation.

Final Tips on College Entrance Exams

Don’t wait until the last possible test date to schedule your college entrance exam. Things can happen—for example, you may catch a cold and not be at your best. As you develop your list of preferred colleges, keep track of their admissions requirements and any information about how they evaluate test scores. Many colleges require that your test scores be sent directly from the testing agency (from ACT or SAT), while other schools will accept a test score if it is listed on your official high school transcript.

When you register for an ACT or SAT, you can choose to send your score to four colleges for free. Take advantage of this offer, unless you’d rather wait for the results. To send your score to a university, log in to your ACT or College Board account and order your test scores sent to the schools that need them. You may need to pay a fee for each score report. If you wait until the last minute and need the scores “rushed” you will be an additional fee for that.

Some colleges will “superscore” if you took the ACT or SAT multiple times. For the ACT there are four sections that make up the composite score but a superscore takes the highest score for each section (for up to 4 different test dates) and creates a new super composite score. If you’re interested in a college that superscores, it makes sense to take the entrance exam multiple times.

Remember to bring what you need on test day and avoid bringing any restricted items. You will be dismissed from the testing if you do not follow the policies and procedures (such as having your phone ring during the exam). Don’t bring a brand-new calculator—bring one you know well and make sure the batteries are going to last through the exam. Finally, get a good night’s sleep and eat a good breakfast before the test.

College entrance exams are an important part of the college admissions process. These standardized tests help schools evaluate applicants from a variety of educational backgrounds. As you narrow your list of preferred colleges, research each school’s testing preferences and requirements. If a college accepts both the ACT and SAT, you can choose the test that best suits your skillset. Evaluate your strengths and your performance on practice exams to help you decide between the ACT and SAT tests. With proper planning and preparation, you’ll be ready to perform your best on test day.

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8 Things to Know About How Colleges Use Admission Tests

Find the right college for you..

College admission tests like the SAT and ACT are standardized tests typically taken in your junior or senior year. Colleges use scores from these tests to help them make admission decisions. Each college has its own admission processes and policies, and they use scores differently. Here are the facts you need to know.

• Most Four-Year Colleges Use Test Scores in Their Admission Decisions SAT scores help colleges compare students from different high schools. Your scores show your strengths and readiness for college work. But remember standardized test scores are just one part of your college application, along with grades, course rigor, and recommendations.
• Test Scores Are Not the Most Important Factor When colleges use scores in admission decisions, they weigh the scores differently. But no matter which college you're applying to, good SAT scores are not the most important factor. Colleges give the most weight to your grades and the rigor of your classes.
• Most Colleges Publish Student Test-Score Information Some colleges publish the average scores of their students, and others show ranges. You can see how your scores compare if you're interested in a particular college. But keep in mind that most colleges admit students with a wide range of scores; some students always score above and some below the published scores. Think of these scores as a guide, not a cutoff.
• Admission Tests Let Colleges Find You When you sign up for the SAT, you get the chance to hear from colleges that have an interest in you based on your composite scores, grades, academic interests, and other characteristics. The SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, and PSAT 10 offer opportunities for you to indicate your desire to have your name shared with interested colleges.
• Colleges May Use Scores to Award Scholarships Most scholarship money—money you do not have to pay back—comes from colleges. Some colleges use your test scores, alone or in combination with other characteristics and achievements, to award their funds. Some colleges and universities may even automatically award you a scholarship if you earn a certain score. Other organizations and private companies that award scholarships may also require your test scores as part of their scholarship applications.
• Scores May Determine Placement in College Classes Admission tests, such as the SAT, evaluate the reading, writing, and math skills that you'll need in college. So some colleges use scores to place students in classes that are at the right level for them. SAT and ACT scores can also be used to identify students who may benefit from specific advisors or academic support in college.
• Scores Can Help Strengthen Your Application Many colleges are test optional now, which means students don't have to submit SAT or ACT scores along with their applications. If your scores are higher than the average SAT scores, however, submitting them could show your strengths as well as your interests. Although many four-year colleges and open-admission colleges, including community colleges, don't require these scores, they may use them for placement or scholarships.
• Some colleges require all your scores.
• Some colleges look at your highest combined scores from one test date.
• Some colleges accept your highest section scores from any day you tested.

Get More Information Every admission policy is different. Use trusted sources to do research before you apply. You can use College Search to find a college’s SAT score-use policy and score ranges — just visit the Applying area of any college’s profile. Or check out a college's official website to learn about its score-use policy and score ranges.

Learn more about how taking the SAT opens doors for you in 5 Ways the SAT Can Help You . 

What standardized tests do colleges look at?

Many colleges and universities have shifted from requiring standardized test scores as part of their admissions to optional test status. For you, this means it will depend on what college you're applying to. If the colleges you're applying to require standardized test scores, however, the two main test scores they’ll look at are your SAT and your ACT scores.

What are the two tests you should take for college?

There are two tests that you should take for college: the SAT and the ACT.

How many times can you take the SAT?

You can take the SAT as many times as you'd like, though most students take the SAT only once or twice. However, if you do take the SAT twice, colleges may pick the highest score, or they may ask for both scores.

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Importance of University Entrance Exam

Once class 12th boards are over, the next big thing in a student’s life is getting into a good university. While board marks do play an important role in helping the student get into the universities they desire, but the University Entrance Exam has greater weightage in assessing the student for admissions. These papers are meant to assess the true potential of a student and then on that basis provide admission. They are also called competitive exams, due to the tremendous amount of competition these exams see among the students for a limited number of seats in reputed universities.

Most University entrance exams, unlike board exams, do not expect their applicants to write long answers and explain the solutions, for them what matters is that the student knows the maximum number of correct answers and that too in a limited period. The solution doesn’t matter as long as the answer is correct, and that is why the difficulty of the questions is much higher than those on school boards. Shortcuts, tips, and tricks are of large value in these competitive exams as the time is taken per question needs to be very less.

These entrance exams are also a way for testing the calmness and composure of the students as they have to take the test under immense pressure due to the factors- time limit and difficulty of questions. Thus, it is believed that these exams help students to prepare for the tough obstacles ahead by teaching them the importance of staying calm in tough situations, having clarity of thought, and most importantly, managing time efficiently.

From a University perspective

These entrance exams help the University to select the best students for their universities. It helps them create a benchmark for those who wish to take admission to the University. There are several cases where different universities come together to form a joint board where they release one entrance paper together and then they all accept students who have given the paper through whatever marks they obtained. The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is the biggest engineering exam for students who wish to opt for engineering post 12th standard. Maximum colleges accept JEE marks themselves, by providing their desired cutoff percentile whereas some private universities conduct their own entrance examinations.

From the student’s perspective

Students need to take these University entrance exams seriously as the number of applicants is no joke, and it is a question of their careers. To get into a reputed university, one must acquire a good percentile, and with the ever-increasing competition, it isn’t an easy task. Total dedication, hardwork, and focus are expected from the students preparing for these entrance exams. Students need to understand what makes these exams different from their school exams, is that IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO ATTEMPT ALL.

Choosing the right question matters, as time management is important. Wasting loads of time on questions that are tougher than one’s potential can be costly as it might lower the confidence and set panic as well seeing the time constraint. There also is negative marking in most of these papers, so a thorough reflection on one’s preparation is necessary so that time isn’t wasted and accuracy is maintained to obtain the maximum marks one can. There is also a slight luck factor in these exams as it depends a bit on how other students perform, that is, the percentile system. While this is not in one’s hand, all a student can do is focus on what’s in their hands. They need to focus on their preparation and on how they attempt the paper.

The most important thing that students need to keep in mind is that they must never underestimate these entrance exams, as they truly can change lives, but at the same time, if things don’t go as planned on the particular day of the exam they wish to crack, they must not be demoralized and must keep in mind that there are several other colleges and exams they can give, so proper research on colleges providing their desired field of study is a must. One can’t just focus on a single exam, there needs to be priority sorting and proper planning as well.

At the end of the day what matters is the amount of knowledge you gained and the skills you mastered to face the real challenging world that's waiting outside. You can find all these when you get into an excellent university.

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IMPORTANCE OF ENTRANCE EXAMS IN A STUDENT'S LIFE

Entrance exams play a very important role in a student's life. Entrance exams determine if the student is ready and prepared to perform in the academic environment. These entrance exams check the level of the student and accordingly provide them proper career path in their life. Entrance exams are also conducted in order to determine at which level of the student should be placed upon entrance to the schools and colleges. It benefits the students and the school or colleges to have the students properly positioned within the school or colleges in order to achieve the maximum educational benefits. These entrance exams develop confidence and increase the self-esteem in the students and they also get the strength from knowing that they are eligible to pursue the education in that particular field. It also helps a lot to bring an improvement in the individual's knowledge. These entrance exams have various scopes since it provides a chance of forming a well-built educational foundation in the present competitive market. It is also to judge the student ability, sharpness, knowledge etc. The aptitude of the student is tested through the various entrance exams. These entrance exams not only judge the student ability, sharpness, knowledge but also their overall aptitude level and accordingly provide them merit list to take admission in various top colleges or universities depending upon their rank. It's the prime importance of the student that they should take these entrance exams seriously because these entrance exams decide their future, whether the student gets admission in their dream college. Engineering: Engineering is undoubtedly one of the most enticing careers paths today if you have the correct aptitude. There are various entrance exams to get admission into various engineering colleges in India. Engineering is one of the best professions for students to enhance their skill and succeed in life. There are lots of opportunities for students in engineering to start their career and it will definitely build their career to succeed in life. The most important thing is that there are lots of job opportunities available for engineering students to start their career. JEE Mains is the national level undergraduate engineering entrance exams. This exam is acceptable for admission in various B.Tech/B.E Programs. JEE Mains is the national level undergraduate engineering entrance exams. This exam is acceptable for admission in various B.Tech/B.E Programs.

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How Important is the College Essay?

What’s covered:, factors that impact the importance of college essays, final thoughts, where to get your essay edited.

You know it’s important to have a high GPA, strong standardized tests scores, and extracurricular activities for your college application. But what about the essay? Just how much does it really matter to your overall academic profile? 

The essay is always important, but just how much it will influence your overall application varies by the school to which you are applying, as well as your individual profile. We’ll break it down further in this post.

At the top 250 schools, your essays generally account for 25% of your overall application. This is only slightly behind the 30% for extracurriculars. Essays are actually ahead of the 20% for grades and coursework, 15% for test scores, and 10% for recommendations and interviews. 

Now that many schools are going test-optional or test-blind , however, this breakdown changes slightly. In these situations, test scores no longer account for 15%, meaning that other portions of your application, including essays, are given more weight and consideration.

You might be surprised to learn that essays are that important, but keep in mind that at top schools, there are at least 4 academically-qualified candidates for every open spot. To truly assess an applicant’s fit with the school, admissions officers need the essays. Essays are your one opportunity to share your voice, your unique experiences, and your perspective.

While there is a general breakdown as to how important essays are, their actual influence will vary based on several factors:

1. School size and type

Huge public schools tend to have more applicants than private schools, as well as limited resources with which to evaluate candidates. State schools tend to screen candidates first using GPA and test scores, before reviewing extracurricular activities and essays. At these schools, essays matter less if you have particularly strong academics. The more selective the school, however, the more important essays are. For instance, essays likely matter more at UC Berkeley and the University of Michigan compared to the University of Nebraska or University of Arizona. This is because more selective schools often have more qualified applicants, so essays are used kind of as a tie-breaker. 

In contrast, smaller colleges, especially liberal arts schools, tend to take a more holistic approach to evaluating candidates, since these colleges tend to be more self-selective and receive fewer applications. Therefore, they can devote more time and resources to each individual application.

Top private schools like the Ivies and similar-tier colleges also prefer to use a holistic approach when evaluating students, seeking to understand the candidate and their background as a whole. At top-tier colleges, many of the candidates are already excellent students who have stellar grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities, so essays provide an additional way to differentiate candidates and understand their entire profiles and personalities. As a result, essays are extremely important at these schools, even for those with stellar academics.

2. The strength of your profile

If you are a “borderline” candidate, with good but less-competitive grades and test scores, a strong essay could push you into the admitted pool. However, your essay is unlikely to compensate for grades and test scores that are too far below average, since academics are the primary basis of evaluation.

For the student who otherwise presents an outstanding profile, with a high GPA, competitive test scores, and stellar extracurricular activities, the essay may have a smaller impact on your overall application, because you have already demonstrated your ability to succeed. However, you should still aim to write a strong essay, especially if your dream colleges are highly-selective. 

Under no circumstances should you ever “blow off” your college essay. Even if the rest of your profile makes you a top candidate for competitive colleges, your essay always matters. In fact, your essay could end up hurting an application for an otherwise strong candidate if it appears hastily written or not well thought-out.

3. Your intended major

Factoring in your particular interests, talents, and intended major makes the importance of the essay even more nuanced. If you intend to study a humanities subject such as Journalism, Creative Writing, or English, and list writing-oriented extracurricular activities (such as your school newspaper) on your application, your essay needs to reflect your talent and chosen major. If colleges see that your focus is writing and receive a poorly-written or uninspired essay, they will be confused — and may wonder how well you understand your own strengths.

On the other hand, if your focus is clearly on a subject in which writing personally and creatively is not as essential, such as STEM, admissions committees may provide a little more leeway and judge your essay a little less harshly. You still need to present a well-written and carefully-considered essay, of course. If you know writing is somewhat of a weakness, have teachers, guidance counselors, friends, and family members read it and offer feedback. However, colleges will generally understand that your talents lie elsewhere.

4. Test-optional/Test-blind policies

When colleges go test-optional or test-blind , standardized test scores are given less or no consideration in the admissions process. This means that the other aspects of your application will be more important. So, if you’re planning on applying to schools with test-optional or test-blind policies, keep in mind that your essays will be given even more consideration. Alternatively, if you’re applying to a school where standardized tests are required, your essays may be weighted slightly less.

In either case, you should be making sure your essays are as strong as possible. As schools are increasingly turning test-optional and test-blind in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, admissions processes are constantly changing in unpredictable ways. Your essays are the most personalized part of your application and are your chance to tell admissions officers your unique story. So, make sure that your essays are in great shape and are conveying your personality in an authentic and interesting way.

Essays are an extremely important part of the college admissions process. While certain factors may impact the relative influence of essays, you should always put in your best effort. 

If you’re looking for more help on how to write a strong essay, check out these posts:

How to Write the Common App Essays (with Examples!)

How to Write the “Why This Major” Essay

How to Write the “Why This College” Essay

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? It’s always useful to have another set of eyes look at your essays to make sure they are in great shape. No matter where you are in the writing process, you can check out our Peer and Expert Essay Review to get some insight into how to improve your college essays! 

With our free peer review, you can have others take a look at your essay and provide useful feedback. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. Alternatively, try out our paid expert essay review to get expert advice and detailed tips on what to improve in your essays!

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, does the sat essay matter expert guide.

In days of yore, the SAT Essay was very different. For starters, it was a required portion of the exam, scored as part of the writing section. You had a measly 25 minutes to give and support your opinion on such deep philosophical issues as the importance of privacy or whether people perform better when they can use their own methods to complete tasks.

Things are very different now. Along with the SAT itself, the SAT Essay has been completely revamped and revised. Among other things, it is now an optional portion of the exam. In light of this SAT Essay renovation, many schools will no longer require that students take the SAT Essay when they take the exam.

But what do all these changes mean for you? Is the SAT Essay important? Read on for a breakdown of the new SAT changes, information on which schools continue to require the SAT Essay, why schools do and don’t require this portion of the exam, and how to figure out if the SAT Essay is necessary or important for you.

UPDATE: SAT Essay No Longer Offered

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In January 2021, the College Board announced that after June 2021, it would no longer offer the Essay portion of the SAT (except at schools who opt in during School Day Testing). It is now no longer possible to take the SAT Essay, unless your school is one of the small number who choose to offer it during SAT School Day Testing.

While most colleges had already made SAT Essay scores optional, this move by the College Board means no colleges now require the SAT Essay. It will also likely lead to additional college application changes such not looking at essay scores at all for the SAT or ACT, as well as potentially requiring additional writing samples for placement.

What does the end of the SAT Essay mean for your college applications? Check out our article on the College Board's SAT Essay decision for everything you need to know.

The New SAT Essay

The SAT was revised in March 2016. The aspect of the exam that is most changed is the essay. Instead of writing a 25-minute opinion piece, you will have 50 minutes to analyze how the author of a given passage constructs his or her argument.

Additionally, instead of having the exam integrated into your composite score, you will receive a separate score for your exam that does not affect your 1600-point score. The new exam is graded out of 24 points - 8 points each in “Reading” (essentially reading comprehension), “Analysis,” and “Writing” (writing style). See our breakdown of the new rubric here .

Finally, the new essay is a completely optional portion of the exam. You don’t have to take it, and you’ll still get your 1600-point score. In this way it’s a lot like the ACT, which also has an optional essay. If you wish to register for the SAT Essay, you’ll pay an extra $11.50.

Because the essay is now optional, colleges have the option of not requiring students to send SAT Essay scores. Thus, many colleges have dropped this requirement. So who still requires the SAT Essay?

Let this creepy happy pencil guide you through the SAT Essay!

Who Requires the New SAT Essay?

According to a Kaplan poll in which 300 schools were surveyed, most schools will not require the optional SAT Essay. However, some still do recommend or require it, particularly in the most selective tier of institutions.

Notably, elite schools like the Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, and the University of Chicago are divided on the issue, with some requiring the essay and some neither requiring or recommending it. In the Ivy League, Harvard, Princeton, Dartmouth and Yale will continue to require the SAT Essay, and Columbia, Cornell, UPenn, and Brown will not.

Big state schools are similarly divided: for example, the University of California system and the University of Michigan both require the essay, University of Illinois and Purdue University recommend it; and Penn State, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Indiana University neither require nor recommend the essay.

For the most up-to-date information on a school’s position on the SAT Essay, check the College Board . If the school isn’t on the list, check their admissions website. Those schools that do require the essay have gone on the record with specific reasons for doing so; I’ll break those down in the next section.

Schools are divided, like this egg.

Why Do Schools Require the SAT Essay?

Given that so many schools won’t require the essay going forward, you may be curious about those that do still require it. What’s their reasoning? Based on public statements from school officials, it seems to boil down to three main reasons:

#1: More Information Is Better

Some colleges seem to feel that all of the information they can get from applicants is helpful in painting a complete picture of the applicant. Certainly the SAT Essay presents a somewhat unique data point in that there are no other standardized elements of a college application that would include specific information on an applicant’s timed writing skills. It makes sense that schools that value having all the information that it is conceivably possible to obtain about a student would require the SAT Essay.

#2: The Revised Test Is Similar to College Work

The old SAT Essay involved a fairly arbitrary task and bore no resemblance to any work students do in college. However, the revised essay engages a student’s rhetorical analysis skills and requires the kind of analytical thinking students will perform in college. Thus, some colleges require the new SAT Essay because they feel it gives valuable insight into how a student might perform with college-level work.

#3: Sending a Message on the Importance of Writing

Institutions may also require the SAT Essay simply because they wish to telegraph to the world that they believe writing is important. This was part of the rationale given by Yale as to why they would continue to require the essay.

That’s why schools require it—but what about schools that don’t require the essay? What’s their reasoning?

Cats or dogs: another hot-button issue at elite institutions

Why Don't Schools Require the SAT Essay?

There are four main reasons that schools have given for not requiring the SAT essay going forward:

#1: Consistency

Many schools already do not require the optional writing portion of the ACT. So now that the SAT Essay is also optional, it makes sense to not require it, either. This simply makes testing guidelines consistent for those schools.

#2: The Essay Is Redundant

Some schools feel that they already have sufficient evidence of an applicant’s writing capability through application essays. This is particularly true at institutions where multiple essays are required as part of the application.

#3: The SAT Essay Does Not Predict College Success

In the past, the old SAT essay has been shown to be the least predictive element of college success on the SAT. While there is not yet data on the new SAT essay’s predictive capabilities, schools have taken this opportunity to shed what they feel is basically dead weight in an application.

#4: Requiring the SAT Essay Presents a Burden to Underprivileged Students

Columbia’s primary concern is that the extra cost of the essay may be a deterrent to underprivileged students.   University of Pennsylvania has made similar statements —minority and underprivileged students are least likely to have a “complete testing profile.” So, they’ve eliminated the SAT Essay requirement in the hopes of attracting a more diverse applicant pool.

A diverse tomato pool.

So Does the SAT Essay Matter to Your College Chances?

I’ve gone over how and why schools use or don’t use the SAT Essay. But what does all of this mean for you?

There are two main questions you need to answer to determine how important the essay is for you: first, should you take the SAT Essay section, and second, how important is your score?

Should I Take the SAT Essay?

This comes down mostly to whether or not you are applying to schools that require or recommend the SAT Essay. (In college applications, I would generally err on the side of treating recommendations as nicely-worded requirements.)

If you are truly not interested in a single school that requires/recommends the essay, and you don’t see yourself changing your mind, go ahead and skip it.   However, if there’s even a chance you might be interested in a school that does require/recommend the essay, you should take it.

And if you’re applying to highly selective schools, definitely take the essay portion, because around half of them require the essay. So if you change your mind at the last minute and decide you’re applying to CalTech as well as MIT, you’ll need that essay.

I advise this because if you don’t take the essay portion and then end up needing it for even one school, you’ll have to take the entire test over again. If you’re happy with your score already, this will be a big four-hour drag for you.

You might also want to take the essay portion if you are particularly good at rhetorical analysis and timed writing. Even for colleges that don’t require the essay, a stellar score will look good.

How Important Is Your SAT Essay Score?

This is a little more complicated, as it does depend to a certain extent on the schools you are applying to. I spoke to admissions officers from several schools, and some themes emerged as to how important they consider your essay score to be, and how they use it in evaluating your application:

• The general consensus was that the essay was the least important part of the SAT overall. Admissions offices will look much more closely at your composite score.
• The SAT Essay is primarily looked at in combination with your other writing-based application materials: your admissions essay and your high school English transcripts are also used to determine your writing and language skills. Essentially, it’s a part of a facet of your application.
• That said, bombing the essay would be a red flag to admissions officers that you might not be fully prepared for college-level work.

Overall, I would advise you not to sweat your essay score too much. The most important thing is that your essay score is more or less consistent with your other test scores. It certainly doesn’t have to be perfect—if you get a 1600 and an 18 out of 24, I wouldn’t stress too much. But if you, say, have a 1500 and get a 9/24 on the essay, that’s a little more concerning, as it may cause concern among admissions officers that you aren’t prepared for college-level work.

In general, then, schools really look at the score, but it’s not one of the most important parts of your application or even your SAT score.  Your best bet if you are interested in a given school that requires the essay and you want more specific guidance how they use the essay is to call the admissions office and ask. To learn more about what a good SAT Essay score is, check out our guide to the average SAT Essay score.

Not this kind of score!

How Can I Succeed on the SAT Essay?

Luckily, it’s very possible to learn the skills to hit the SAT Essay out of the park every time. Here are some general tips:

• Learn specific persuasive and argumentative techniques that you can reference in your essay. If you can’t identify what devices authors can use to make arguments, how will you write an essay about it?
• Make sure you have a clear thesis that can be defended with evidence from the passage.
• Include an introduction and a conclusion. This will help “bracket” your great points and show that you know how to structure a solid piece of writing.
• Rely on evidence from the passage to build your argument.
• Don’t give your opinion on the issue! The new SAT essay is not opinion-based.
• Make sure you use correct grammar and academic language. (No “This passage, like my brows, is on fleek.”)
• Write at least a page.

Also see this guide to getting a perfect SAT Essay score and this one on improving your score.

Tips to success: don't fold up the Essay section into origami boats.

Final Summary and Actionables

With the new SAT making the essay section optional, many schools have chosen to neither require nor recommend that students take it. Most schools will no longer require the essay, but highly selective schools are divided on the issue.

Among those schools that do require the SAT Essay, many have gone on the record to say that they feel the essay provides a valuable additional piece of information on an applicant’s potential for college-level work. They plan on using the essay as a way to further evaluate an applicant’s writing skills, although for most of these schools it is considered the least important part of the SAT score .

At schools where the SAT Essay is not required, the essay has been eliminated for a variety of reasons: for more consistency with ACT requirements, because the Essay seems redundant or poorly predictive of college success, or to attract a more diverse applicant pool.

What does all this mean for you? If there’s even a chance you’ll apply to a school that requires or recommends the essay, take the SAT with Essay. If you don’t and end up needing it later, you’ll have to re-take the entire exam.

If you do take the SAT Essay, don’t stress too much about getting a perfect score, but do prepare enough that you are confident you won’t get a very low score compared to your composite.

What's Next?

If you're thinking about test scores and college, check out my article on the minimum SAT score for college.

Ready to get started with practice essays? Check out our thorough analysis of the SAT essay prompt and our complete list of prompts to practice with .

Aiming for a perfect SAT essay score? Read our guides to get strategies on how to get an 8/8/8 on your SAT essay .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points?

Check out our best-in-class online SAT prep classes . We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your SAT score by 160 points or more.

Our classes are entirely online, and they're taught by SAT experts . If you liked this article, you'll love our classes. Along with expert-led classes, you'll get personalized homework with thousands of practice problems organized by individual skills so you learn most effectively. We'll also give you a step-by-step, custom program to follow so you'll never be confused about what to study next.

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Ellen has extensive education mentorship experience and is deeply committed to helping students succeed in all areas of life. She received a BA from Harvard in Folklore and Mythology and is currently pursuing graduate studies at Columbia University.

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The Importance of College Entrance Exams

Updated 25 October 2023

Subject Learning

Downloads 42

Category Education

Topic Student

Before students are admitted to colleges, they are subjected to at least one of the following entrance exams PSAT/NMSQT, SAT Reasoning test, ACT, and SAT subject tests. The tests are administered as a strategy of implementing a common yardstick for measuring a student’s academic ability and predicting how the student will fair in college. The use of these college exams is motivated by the fact that most secondary schools around the United States do not share a common grading policy and therefore the entrance exams are needed to act as a common grading policy for students across the country. However, most students approach the entrance exam dates as if their futures hang in the balance. They put themselves under a lot of pressure trying to study for the exams and mentally thinking about failing and whether they are intelligent enough to pass the exams. Nonetheless, contrary to popular beliefs among students, the exams are not indicative of a student’s intelligence but are just among the several elements that make up their profile. Although the examinations provide a standard sieve of establishing who can attend college, it is also limited in determining an individual’s intelligence level.

College entrance exams do not measure a student’s potential since they cannot measure divergent thinking and creativity. According to Suzanne Brier’s article titled “Grades Don't Measure Intelligence," “Many times, tests are inaccurate representations of one's aptitude… Everybody has varying strengths and weaknesses, however, if someone fails to succeed in one subject, many will perceive them as being less intelligent…” Brier in her article reveals the fact that many factors may affect students in the course of taking the college entrance exams that may lead to their failure. Factors such as anxiety, sickness, and harsh or stressful environments may contribute to the failure of the students. As a result, the exams fail to measure the student’s creativity since they end up being labeled as failures when in the real sense it is the circumstances surrounding them that lead to their failure. As a result, students who are sharp end up losing the chance to explore their intelligence and apply it in colleges because of the failure in the entrance exams. With this in mind, it is clear that college entrance exams do not measure and individuals intelligence since students taking them are subjected to a lot of external pressure that may break them down and hinder their full performance in the exams.

Furthermore, college entrance exams fail to measure true student intelligence since exams, in general, are inadequate tools for measuring people’s intelligence. Peter Tait’s article dubbed “Intelligence cannot be defined by exams” echoes the similar sentiments as he claims that “The problem of measuring intelligence per se is that it is an inadequate guide to human capability and that many of the ways we use to measure working intelligence are woefully inadequate…” Tait explores how flawed exams are as tools for measuring a student’s intelligence. He explains that most of the highly intelligent students slip through the net or just choose to think differently from the conventional way of thinking and as a result end up in the wrong side of the examination requirements. As a result, once they take the exams, they fail and are viewed as unintelligent when in the real sense they are brilliant individuals. For instance, some students are great in music but do not understand a single thing in other subjects like mathematics. As a result, this shows that different people are intelligent in their own way and although it may not be the conventional intelligence, they should not be denied the opportunity to explore their talents and skills just because of an exam.

College entrance exams are not a measure of intelligence since most of the people who fail end up holding essential positions in public life while those that pass end up becoming painfully deficient in other aspects. Evelyn Lee’s article titled “Standardized Tests Don’t Measure Intelligence or Ability” expounds more on this by stating that “In addition, these scores may not mean much scholastically speaking. Aspects of an application such as high school GPA are the main determinant of how well a student does at a university — not SAT scores…” although the college entrance exams exist to measure students capability of handling higher education and gaining greater skills, it is evident that they fail to achieve this because they do not possess the capacity of gauging an individual’s intelligence level.  An individual may lack what is referred to as ‘book smarts’ but may possess ‘street smarts’ which would allow them to establish business empires or even do other great things despite being labeled as failures by the college entrance exams. This is the reason why a lot of well-educated individuals usually end up lacking jobs or even being employed for all their lives while those that are labeled as failures generally end up establishing their own businesses and becoming hugely successful. The conventional method of measuring intelligence is extremely flawed since it fails to show the true capability of a student. With this in mind, it is evident that college entrance exams are not capable of measuring the real potential of an applicant since the conventional standard of measuring intelligence is not correct as it is subjective since it does not take into account all of the factors involved.

In summary, it is evident that college entrance exams are used to gauge which students are best suitable for college life and the challenges of a college education. However, although those that pass are praised for their intelligence, the students that fail often view themselves as failures and those around them also see them as unable to amount to anything. However, upon a close analysis of college entrance exams, it is evident that they do not offer definition or representation of accurate intelligence since they fail to account for various elements that may contribute to an individual’s performance. As a result, the results received from these exams are usually flawed. This is evident from the countless number of people who have failed them yet have managed to become more successful than their counterparts who actually managed to pass them. Furthermore, there are many cases of individuals who pass the exams and go to college only to drop out after a few years since college education usually becomes harder for them to handle.  From such examples, it is evident that these exams do not represent the actual test of intelligence as they are not accurate. Given this, it is vital for individuals to realize that failing such exams does not necessarily mean the end of life but it just means they need to prove to work hard and prove the tests are wrong.

Works Cited

Brier, Suzanne. “Grades Don't Measure Intelligence.” The Odyssey Online, Odyssey, 14 Nov. 2017, www.theodysseyonline.com/knowledge-does-not-equal-intelligence.

Lee, Evelyn. “Standardized Tests Don't Measure Intelligence or Ability ‹ Pepperdine Graphic.” Pepperdine Graphic, 27 Sept. 2016, pepperdine-graphic.com/standardized-tests-dont-measure-intelligence-or-ability/.

Schuschu, Monika. “How Good Are the ACT/SAT at Predicting College Success?” CollegeVine, CollegeVine, 25 Dec. 2017, blog.collegevine.com/how-good-are-the-sat-act-at-predicting-college-success/.

Tait, Peter. "'Intelligence Cannot Be Defined by Exams.'" The Telegraph, Telegraph Media Group, 17 June 2015, www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationopinion/11678216/Intelligence-cannot-be-defined-by-exams.html.

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Six reasons why exams are important

Many students get annoyed when they hear about exams. But no matter how much we hate this word; exams play an important role in the process of learning and students’ development. Here are six reasons why exams are important.

1. Exams build confidence

Exams develop confidence which increases a student’s personality in a hard-working manner. Confidence comes from knowing that you are perfect at what you do. During exam time, many students become stressed about their exam performance, and they do hard work to try to give their best performance. When students get good grades, it boosts their confidence levels and makes them motivated to study hard.

2. Exams help in awarding scholarships

Not many parents a capable to provide the best knowledge for their children and exams are one of the gateways to achieve scholarships and study for higher education. Examinations enable those awarding scholarships to examine and compare the past and present results to know who is worth sponsoring.

3. Exams in-still discipline

Discipline is an essential feature for all successful people and examination helps you become more disciplined. Those students who genuinely pass their exams are always more disciplined and are prepared to enter the real world. Exams make one stronger and prepare you to conquer all the challenges you will face in every aspect of life.

4. Exams teach time management

Time management is a very important skill in life. To prepare for exams, one needs to learn how to manage their time efficiently to study and while doing the exams too. Time management is an essential part of our daily lives and in the corporate world too, so if you don’t know how to manage your time, you will fail to meet deadlines and not be able to fulfil your goals.

5. Exams improve learning

Exams improve learning and enable people to take on new information. It helps to widen people’s horizons and make them outstanding. Moreover, exams have helped many to become better readers, learners and researchers.

6. Exams trigger brain exercise

Examinations make the brain search the memory database for appropriate knowledge, questions and answers. It makes students think thoroughly which means a healthy exercise for the brain.

Due to plenty of reasons exams are important but if you’re feeling stressed about exams, don’t worry. Here are some tips to deal with exam stress .

These might interest you.

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Exams might be stressful, but they improve learning

Senior Lecturer in Educational Psychology, Macquarie University

Senior Lecturer in Educational Assessment, Macquarie University

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Penny Van Bergen has previously received funding from the Australian Research Council.

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In recent weeks, students across high school and university classrooms have been breathing sighs of relief. Exams are officially over, and celebrations have begun.

For many students, exams seem a necessary evil. Time-consuming yet inevitable. But are exams really necessary? And are they evil?

In 2011, Macquarie University was the first Australian university to debate the abolition of exams . No exams in any subject, at any year level. At the time it was suggested that exams fail to develop “questioning, self sufficient learners”. Critics also often argue that exams promote a superficial understanding of topics, and that they are inauthentic : that is, they fail to represent the kinds of things students will be asked to do “in the real world”.

However, this is taking a narrow view of the benefits of exams. Exams include many of the aspects we want from assessment.

What do we want from assessment?

Good assessment programs aim to provide a balanced, fair evaluation of each student. They achieve this in two ways. First, they use of a variety of strategies and tasks. This gives students multiple opportunities, in varying contexts, to demonstrate what they know and can do . It also enables teachers to be confident in the accuracy of their judgements about each student.

Second, tasks must be “fit for purpose” . Assuming a subject has a number of goals (knowledge to learn, skills to acquire), each task should be appropriate to the specific goal or goals it is assessing. This means that a task assessing base knowledge will look different to one assessing creativity.

Rather than abolishing exams, we should instead be asking what mix of assessment tasks is most appropriate for each subject. Where might exams fit? And what are their benefits?

Exams focus on breadth

In most disciplines, there are specific bodies of knowledge that students are expected to learn. Physics students might learn about thermodynamics, while history students might learn about the cold war. Exams enable us to accurately test students’ breadth of understanding of these topics.

Critics of exams often instead promote “deep”, “rich”, and “authentic” assessment tasks. These are typically project-based tasks that draw on students’ creativity and interest. For example, history students might be asked to choose and research a historical character in depth. Business studies students might be asked to design the pitch for a new business seeking venture capital.

These tasks develop several important higher-order thinking skills, such as analysis and decision-making. However, they’re not alternatives to exams. They do different things. And this is exactly what we want: multiple, different tasks to maximise students’ opportunities to demonstrate what they know and can do.

We also want fit-for-purpose. Where breadth of knowledge is important, we want assessment tasks that target this breadth. We want our future doctors to know of the entire human body. We want our future teachers to know a full repertoire of teaching and learning approaches. Exams can help achieve this.

Exams are harder to cheat on

Exams are also useful for a very different reason: they are harder than essays to cheat on. In light of the recent “MyMaster” ghost-writing scandal , it is clear that plagiarism is a serious problem for universities.

Drawing on our characteristics of good assessment, it is impossible to provide a balanced, fair evaluation of a student’s performance if the student has paid someone else to complete their work for them.

Are we being defeatist in suggesting exams as a solution to plagiarism? Perhaps. We would like our schools and universities to be about discovery and exploration: not compliance. To date, however, essay mills have consistently remained one step ahead of academia.

While creative tasks may be one alternative solution, ghostwriter Dave Tomar writes in his book, The Shadow Scholar , that all sorts of tasks are ghost-written. More difficult tasks simply cost more. Tasks that cannot be purchased or copy-and-pasted must be integrated into the mix.

Exams do enhance learning

Finally, and on a more positive note, there is evidence that both studying for and sitting exams deepens learning.

Studying is like exercising. When one exercises, the muscles in use grow stronger. Likewise, the process of searching through ones memory and retrieving the relevant information strengthens that memory pathway for future uses. This means that when newly qualified teachers, doctors, lawyers, or accountants come to retrieve information they need, it is – as a consequence of having been practised previously – now easier to access.

So, how can we best make use of this “practice effect” for memory? Research tells us that learning is particularly strong when students self-test . Rather than passively reading and remembering by rote, we want our students to study by forming appropriate questions, searching memory for relevant responses, and knitting this information together into an appropriate answer.

We think this third benefit of exams is the most exciting. Exams don’t just provide a targeted, fit-for-purpose opportunity for students to demonstrate what they know: they also have the power to enhance what students know.

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Essay on Importance of Examination

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of Examination in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance of Examination

Introduction.

Examinations play a crucial role in a student’s life. They are not just about grades but a way to test knowledge.

Knowledge Evaluation

Examinations help in evaluating what students have learned. They measure the understanding and ability to recall information.

Time Management Skills

Exams teach time management. Students learn to prioritize tasks, which is a valuable skill for the future.

Preparation for Future

Examinations prepare students for future challenges. They instill discipline and the ability to perform under pressure.

In conclusion, exams are essential in shaping a student’s knowledge, skills, and future.

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250 Words Essay on Importance of Examination

Examinations, often viewed with dread, are an integral part of our educational system, serving as a yardstick to measure a student’s comprehension of subjects. They are more than just a series of tests; they are pivotal in shaping the knowledge, skills, and personality of students.

The Role of Examinations

Examinations are designed to assess the understanding, analytical abilities, and problem-solving skills of students in various subjects. They foster a sense of discipline, punctuality, and consistency in studying. Moreover, they prepare students to face challenges and perform under pressure, thereby developing resilience and perseverance.

Examinations and Future Prospects

Examinations also play a significant role in shaping one’s career. The grades and scores obtained in these tests often determine the opportunities for higher studies and job prospects. They serve as a gateway to prestigious institutions and competitive professional fields.

Examinations as a Learning Tool

Examinations encourage students to delve deeper into their course material, promoting intensive and extensive learning. They also act as a feedback mechanism, helping students identify their strengths and areas of improvement, thus guiding them in their learning process.

While examinations have their drawbacks, such as inducing stress and promoting rote learning, their importance in the educational system cannot be undermined. They are essential in assessing a student’s understanding, shaping their learning, and preparing them for the future. Therefore, examinations should be viewed not as a cause of fear, but as an opportunity for self-improvement and growth.

500 Words Essay on Importance of Examination

Examinations are a crucial component of any educational system, acting as a yardstick to evaluate a student’s understanding of the subjects. They are more than just a series of tests; they are a means of establishing an individual’s knowledge and skills, thus playing a vital role in shaping a person’s career.

Examinations serve multiple purposes. They are a way to assess students’ comprehension of the material, their ability to apply what they’ve learned, and their capacity to think critically about the subject matter. Examinations also motivate students to study, instilling a sense of discipline and responsibility. They encourage students to review and revise the course content, thereby reinforcing their learning.

Examinations and Skill Development

Examinations are not just about rote memorization; they also promote various skills. They encourage time management, problem-solving, and analytical abilities. The pressure to perform well in an examination pushes students to strategize their study methods, prioritize their tasks, and manage their time effectively. Moreover, exams foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students need to understand, analyze, and solve complex problems.

Examinations as a Benchmark

Examinations provide a benchmark for identifying a student’s strengths and weaknesses. They help educators understand where a student stands acadically. This feedback can be used to guide future teaching strategies and learning interventions. Examinations also offer a comparative platform where students can be evaluated against a standard set of criteria, ensuring fairness and uniformity.

Examinations and Career Opportunities

Examinations open up a world of opportunities. Many professional fields and higher education institutions rely on examination scores to select candidates. A good performance in these exams often translates to better opportunities, be it in terms of college admissions, scholarships, or job placements.

Examinations and Lifelong Learning

Examinations instill a lifelong learning attitude in students. The skills developed during examination preparation, such as self-discipline, time management, and critical thinking, are not just academic skills; they are life skills that remain beneficial long after the exams are over.

Despite the stress and anxiety often associated with examinations, their importance cannot be undermined. They are a critical part of the educational system, serving as a measure of a student’s understanding, skills, and potential. Examinations drive learning, foster skill development, provide benchmarks, and open up opportunities. They are a stepping stone towards building a successful career and instilling a lifelong learning attitude.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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Essay on Importance of Exams in 500 Words

Examinations have long been a cornerstone of the education system, serving as a pivotal tool to assess students’ understanding, retention, and application of knowledge. While the debate on the efficacy of exams persists, it is essential to recognize the multifaceted role they play in shaping academic journeys. This essay explores the importance of exams in the educational landscape, acknowledging their role in promoting accountability, refining learning strategies, and preparing students for future challenges.

Quick Overview:

• Assessment of Understanding: Exams provide a structured method for evaluating students’ comprehension of the curriculum. Through written tests, practical assessments, and examinations, educators gain insights into the depth of understanding each student has achieved, allowing for targeted interventions and support where needed.
• Benchmarking Knowledge: Exams serve as a benchmark to measure the academic progress of students. They offer a standardized way to gauge the effectiveness of teaching methods, curriculum design, and the overall learning environment. This benchmarking process aids in identifying areas of improvement and optimizing educational practices.
• Promoting Accountability: The prospect of examinations instills a sense of accountability in students. Knowing that their performance will be assessed, students are motivated to engage with the material, stay disciplined in their studies, and strive for academic excellence. This accountability cultivates a sense of responsibility that extends beyond the classroom.
• Preparation for Real-world Challenges: Exams simulate real-world scenarios where individuals are required to apply their knowledge under time constraints. The ability to perform effectively in exam conditions prepares students for future challenges, be it in higher education, professional settings, or other aspects of life where quick thinking and application of knowledge are crucial.
• Feedback and Improvement: Exams provide a feedback loop that is invaluable for both educators and students. The results of exams highlight areas of strength and weakness, guiding educators in refining their teaching methods and students in focusing on areas that require further attention. This iterative process of assessment and improvement is fundamental to the learning journey.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the importance of exams in the education system goes beyond being a mere evaluative tool. Exams are integral to the educational ecosystem, offering a structured mechanism for assessment, fostering accountability, and preparing students for the challenges that lie ahead.

While it is essential to acknowledge the stress and anxiety associated with exams, it is equally crucial to recognize their role in shaping well-rounded individuals equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resilience needed for success. The educational landscape, like any other dynamic system, must strike a balance, constantly evolving to meet the needs of students while upholding the fundamental principles of assessment and accountability.

As we navigate the complex terrain of education, it is imperative to view exams not as hurdles but as stepping stones in the journey of learning and growth. Embracing a holistic perspective that values both formative and summative assessments allows us to leverage the potential of exams in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that education remains a transformative force in shaping the minds and futures of the next generation.

Rahul Kumar is a passionate educator, writer, and subject matter expert in the field of education and professional development. As an author on CoursesXpert, Rahul Kumar’s articles cover a wide range of topics, from various courses, educational and career guidance.

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Elite College Admissions Have Turned Students Into Brands

By Sarah Bernstein

Ms. Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist in Brooklyn.

“I just can’t think of anything,” my student said.

After 10 years of teaching college essay writing, I was familiar with this reply. For some reason, when you’re asked to recount an important experience from your life, it is common to forget everything that has ever happened to you. It’s a long-form version of the anxiety that takes hold at a corporate retreat when you’re invited to say “one interesting thing about yourself,” and you suddenly believe that you are the most boring person in the entire world. Once during a version of this icebreaker, a man volunteered that he had only one kidney, and I remember feeling incredibly jealous of him.

I tried to jog this student’s memory. What about his love of music? Or his experience learning English? Or that time on a summer camping trip when he and his friends had nearly drowned? “I don’t know,” he said with a sigh. “That all seems kind of cliché.”

Applying to college has always been about standing out. When I teach college essay workshops and coach applicants one on one, I see my role as helping students to capture their voice and their way of processing the world, things that are, by definition, unique to each individual. Still, many of my students (and their parents) worry that as getting into college becomes increasingly competitive, this won’t be enough to set them apart.

Their anxiety is understandable. On Thursday, in a tradition known as “Ivy Day,” all eight Ivy League schools released their regular admission decisions. Top colleges often issue statements about how impressive (and competitive) their applicant pools were this cycle. The intention is to flatter accepted students and assuage rejected ones, but for those who have not yet applied to college, these statements reinforce the fear that there is an ever-expanding cohort of applicants with straight A’s and perfect SATs and harrowing camping trip stories all competing with one another for a vanishingly small number of spots.

This scarcity has led to a boom in the college consulting industry, now estimated to be a $2.9 billion business. In recent years, many of these advisers and companies have begun to promote the idea of personal branding — a way for teenagers to distinguish themselves by becoming as clear and memorable as a good tagline.

While this approach often leads to a strong application, students who brand themselves too early or too definitively risk missing out on the kind of exploration that will prepare them for adult life.

Like a corporate brand, the personal brand is meant to distill everything you stand for (honesty, integrity, high quality, low prices) into a cohesive identity that can be grasped at a glance. On its website, a college prep and advising company called Dallas Admissions explains the benefits of branding this way: “Each person is complex, yet admissions officers only have a small amount of time to spend learning about each prospective student. The smart student boils down key aspects of himself or herself into their personal ‘brand’ and sells that to the college admissions officer.”

Identifying the key aspects of yourself may seem like a lifelong project, but unfortunately, college applicants don’t have that kind of time. Online, there are dozens of lesson plans and seminars promising to walk students through the process of branding themselves in five to 10 easy steps. The majority begin with questions I would have found panic-inducing as a teenager, such as, “What is the story you want people to tell about you when you’re not in the room?”

Where I hoped others would describe me as “normal” or, in my wildest dreams, “cool,” today’s teenagers are expected to leave this exercise with labels like, Committed Athlete and Compassionate Leader or Environmentally Conscious Musician. Once students have a draft of their ideal self, they’re offered instructions for manifesting it (or at least, the appearance of it) in person and online. These range from common-sense tips (not posting illegal activity on social media) to more drastic recommendations (getting different friends).

It’s not just that these courses cut corners on self-discovery; it’s that they get the process backward. A personal brand is effective only if you can support it with action, so instead of finding their passion and values through experience, students are encouraged to select a passion as early as possible and then rack up the experience to substantiate it. Many college consultants suggest beginning to align your activities with your college ambitions by ninth grade, while the National Institute of Certified College Planners recommends students “talk with parents, guardians, and/or an academic adviser to create a clear plan for your education and career-related goals” in junior high.

The idea of a group of middle schoolers soberly mapping out their careers is both comical and depressing, but when I read student essays today, I can see that this advice is getting through. Over the past few years, I have been struck by how many high school seniors already have defined career goals as well as a C.V. of relevant extracurriculars to go with them. This widens the gap between wealthy students and those who lack the resources to secure a fancy research gig or start their own small business. (A shocking number of college applicants claim to have started a small business.) It also puts pressure on all students to define themselves at a moment when they are anxious to fit in and yet changing all the time.

In the world of branding, a word that appears again and again is “consistency.” If you are Charmin, that makes sense. People opening a roll of toilet paper do not want to be surprised. If you are a teenage human being, however, that is an unreasonable expectation. Changing one’s interests, opinions and presentation is a natural part of adolescence and an instructive one. I find that my students with scattershot résumés are often the most confident. They’re not afraid to push back against suggestions that ring false and will insist on revising their essay until it actually “feels like me.” On the other hand, many of my most accomplished students are so quick to accept feedback that I am wary of offering it, lest I become one more adult trying to shape them into an admission-worthy ideal.

I understand that for parents, prioritizing exploration can feel like a risky bet. Self-insight is hard to quantify and to communicate in a college application. When it comes to building a life, however, this kind of knowledge has more value than any accolade, and it cannot be generated through a brainstorming exercise in a six-step personal branding course online. To equip kids for the world, we need to provide them not just with opportunities for achievement, but with opportunities to fail, to learn, to wander and to change their minds.

In some ways, the college essay is a microcosm of modern adolescence. Depending on how you look at it, it’s either a forum for self-discovery or a high-stakes test you need to ace. I try to assure my students that it is the former. I tell them that it’s a chance to take stock of everything you’ve experienced and learned over the past 18 years and everything you have to offer as a result.

That can be a profound process. But to embark on it, students have to believe that colleges really want to see the person behind the brand. And they have to have the chance to know who that person is.

Sarah Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist.

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Essay on Examination 500+ Words

Examinations, often called “exams,” are a common part of education. They are tests that help us learn, measure our knowledge, and prepare for the future. In this essay, we will explore the importance of examinations in education, how they help us grow, and why they are necessary.

Assessing Learning

Examinations are essential for assessing what we have learned. They evaluate our understanding of subjects like math, science, history, and more. Through exams, teachers can identify areas where students excel and where they might need extra help.

Goal Setting

Examinations set goals for students. Knowing that there will be tests encourages us to study and learn. Achieving good results in exams gives us a sense of accomplishment and motivates us to keep learning.

Academic Progress

Exams help track our academic progress. By taking regular tests, teachers and parents can see how we are doing in school. If we are struggling in a particular subject, exams help identify the areas where we need improvement.

Preparing for the Future

Examinations prepare us for the future. As we grow, we face bigger exams like high school finals and college entrance exams. The skills we develop in earlier exams, such as time management and problem-solving, help us succeed in these more significant tests.

Critical Thinking

Exams encourage critical thinking. We are often asked to solve problems, analyze information, and apply what we have learned. These skills are valuable in everyday life and future careers.

Fair Assessment

Examinations provide a fair way to assess students. They are standardized, which means that all students take the same test under the same conditions. This ensures that everyone is evaluated fairly.

Time Management

Exams teach us time management. We have a limited amount of time to complete the test, which helps us learn how to prioritize tasks and work efficiently.

Building Confidence

Exams can boost our confidence. When we prepare well and do our best, we feel proud of our accomplishments. This self-confidence extends beyond exams and into other areas of life.

Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

Exams help us identify our strengths and weaknesses. If we do well in a particular subject, we may discover a passion for it. On the other hand, if we struggle, we can seek help and improve.

Preparing for Challenges

Exams prepare us for life’s challenges. In the real world, we often face situations where we need to think critically, solve problems, and make decisions. The skills we develop through exams help us tackle these challenges.

Conclusion of Essay on Examination

In conclusion, examinations play a vital role in education. They assess our learning, set goals, track progress, and prepare us for the future. Exams encourage critical thinking, time management, and confidence-building. They provide a fair way to evaluate students and help us identify our strengths and weaknesses. While exams can be challenging, they are a valuable part of our educational journey. Embracing them and approaching them with a positive mindset can lead to personal growth and success. Examinations are not just tests; they are stepping stones to a brighter future.

Also Check: Simple Guide on How To Write An Essay

Essay – examples & model answers | B2 First (FCE)

FCE Essay Examples:  Topic (Environment) 

Example exam task:, example answer (grade: 3), example answer:.

I think that my country has problems with pollution to the environment like all other countries. This problem is normal for Russia. We have big problems with transport because there are too much cars in our country. And because of that we have problems with atmospeer, air in my city and in all Russia is really dirty and sometimes I can’t make a sigh because it smells around me and of course around that cars on the road. I’ve heard about tradition of one country. They don’t go anywhere by car one day a month or a year, they just use bycicle or their feet. I think it could be very good if we had a tradition like that.

So, what about the rivers and the seas? Yeah, there are some really good and clean rivers and seas where you can go, but there are not many of them. Once I saw the river OB in my city, it was about two years ago but I stil remember that in some places it was not blue, it was green or purple I didn’t really understand because it had different colours.

I don’t know what should we do. Maybe we should just open our eyes and look what we did. But Russian people don’t care about the world around them many people care only about themselves an that’s all.

So, the best idea is look around and try to do something good for our planet and for us and our children.

FCE, CAE, CPE

Practice, write & improve, examiners comments & grade:, example answer (grade: 3-4).

To begin with pollution and damage to the environment is the most serious and difficult problem for countries of all over the world. Scientists of different countries predict a global ecocatastrophe if people won’t change their attitude to our planet.

First of all a huge damage to the environment brings a transport. People can’t imagine their living without cars, buses, trains, ships and planes. But it’s an open secret that one of disadvantage of these accustomed things is harmful exhaust. Needless to say that use of environment friendly engines helps us to save atmosphere from pollution.

In addition to this our rivers and seas are in not less danger situation. It’s a fact of common knowledge that numerous factories and plants pour off their waste to ponds. Obviously that cleaning manufacturing water helps to avoid extinction of ocean residents.

Apart from this I’m inclined to believe that every person can and must contribute to solving this important problem. Doing a little steps for protection our environment every day we will be able to save our Earth. And it’s a task of each of us.

Model Answer (Grade: 5)

DEVELOPMENT VS ENVIRONMENT

If we surf the web looking for pollution and environmental catastrophes, we will find out that every country in the world suffers them. This is a natural consequence of the struggle between development and environment.

If a country decided to live isolated from the rest of the world, living on what it can naturally grow and produce, it surely wouldn’t be highly polluted. But we all want exotic food and technological items from all over the world, so we have to pay the price.

Investing on electrical transport would benefit the environment a lot. Even more if this electricity came from a natural source of energy like wind, rivers and solar boards. It’s difficult to achieve this because petrol companies will fight against these actions.

We also have to take care of our rivers and seas. We all have heard about factories throwing highly toxic substances to rivers, without minimizing their poisoning effects. A really strict law should be applied to fine these factories and make them change their policy.

But what about ourselves? We also can do a lot! If, when possible, we bought larger packs of food, we would be producing less rubbish. And this is only an example!

FCE Essay Examples: Topic (Fashion) 

In today’s world, the fashion industry has a strong importance in people’s lives. The fashion industry say to the society what to wear and creates new types of clothes all the time.

Some people claim that the fashion industry has a bad effect on people’s lives, they say that the fashion industry creates clothes that the society has to wear. Furthermore, the clothes’ price is extremely high and people, who can’t afford it, should not be in the society.

In the other hand, the fashion industry guide the people to be in a good appearance, because, nowadays, the appearance of the person is more important than the person itself.

In my opinion, the fashion industry doesn’t has a bad influence on people’s lives. It’s something which was created to help people what to wear.

Example Answer (Grade: 4)

Fashion industry is very a discussed subject nowadays: they create and design new clothes everyday in order to satisfy some people needs.

There are many people who claim that the fashion industry is important and good for society. According to them, this industry design beautiful clothes and thanks to that every person can wear shirts, trousers or any acessory which is on today’s fashion.

On the other hand, the fashion industry in some people opinion, controls the market of clothes and because of that they can’t wear what they want to. In addition, the industry can increase the price of clothes, forcing people who don’t want to be “oldfashioned” to buy and pay a large amount of money to keep “beautiful”.

In my opinion, we can’t let the fashion industry decide what we must or musn’t wear. We shouldn’t judge people for its appearance,because that is not important. We must wear whatever we like, want and feel confortable with.

The society we live today is characterised by technology in constant development, fast speed processes, information travelling and getting to people at a blink of an eye and a complex web of social networking. In this context, the fashion industry is becoming increasingly important and having a more and more paramount role in our lives.

On one hand, the fashion industry is undeniably a source of profit and income. It hires millions of people all over the world and generates millions of dollars every year. Furthermore, such profitable business is also believed to be able to spread and make known the culture of a people, encouraging and enhancing a better understanding of each other.

Nevertheless, for those who are neither impressed nor motivated by numbers and figures, the fashion industry is seen as one which segregates people, isolating those who not fit their laws and commands. It is stated that people place too much importance on appearance and the material, world, sadly true, and the fashion industry just spurs on such situation. Moreover, not only are the costs of fashion item unrealistically high, it is thought to be a money better spent on more pressing issues, such as poverty and hunger.

I do believe that the fashion industry, as it is today, has a harmful effect, because it values a minority of people in detriment to the majority. However, it has such a wide reach that, it put into a good use, it can save lives.

FCE Essay Examples: Topic (Languages) 

“There are more reasons to learn a foreign language than to pass a test”

Everything around us revolves around language(s), it is the most important thing in our lives. Society would just not function without it. They are It is our future and I would personaly love to learn as many as I possibly can.

Not everything in life is done because it is necessary. Learning a new language can be a lot of fun. Many people only do it as a hoby, or their knowledge is something that brings them pride and pleasure.

Secondly, we have people who do it simply to challenge themselves. Truly I believe that having a great outcome that stems from your hard work and dedication to learn something new is a wonderful way to challenge prove your ability to yourself and others. Then there is travelling. It is very important to be able to understand and have a conversation with someone abroad, unless you would like to get lost or worse.

To conclude, I think that learning a new language is an amazing thing no matter why you do it. It is always better to do things out of enjoyment, but even if you do it for a test, that knowledge will always be useful.

Learning a a foreign languages is very important nowadays. English, in particular, is essential because it allows is spoken all over the world. That’s the reason why we start studying it from the age of six years old. Going abroad and being able to speak to native people is very satisfying and that’s why I want to improve my knowledge about foreign languages.

I decided to take this exam to know how high my level of English is, but also because I need this certification to go abroad next summer. I really want to come back to Cornwall, an amazing region in the South-West of England. I’ve been there twice with my family, but now I want to go alone. Only being there to England I can really improve my English comprehension and speaking skills.

Fortunately I can will have some English lessons which taught in English at university and I can’t wait for it because it will be an interesting challenge for me. Studying foreign languages is essential to live and to travel. It isn’t simple and I surely have to challenge myself everyday, but the result is so satisfying that we I can’t do without it.

FCE Essay Example: Topic (History) 

A very common topic that is being discussed nowadays is wether schools should teach subjects that some may consider useless later in life. A clear example is history, since it is quite difficult to learn and does not help us in day-to-day activities.

However, many people do not realize the importance of it or that it affects our lives today. For example, our political system would not be this way if it weren’t for the Ancient Greeks, numerous politicians and wars who helped shape democracy and our constitution. Yet it is still thought that it’s useless.

In addition, it is very important that we never forget about our past since we must know where we were standing years ago. Moreover, there are some things, such as World War II, that we have to remember to prevent them from happening again. We should also know where we we were standing a century ago: our origins, our identity. The more you learn about your ethnicity, the better.

All in all, I think that it is extremely important to learn about one’s own country’s history. Anyone who gets the chance to do this should not waste it, since they are very fortunate to have this opportunity

Would you pass B2 First (FCE)?

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First-Year Application Process

Application timeline.

We are currently accepting applications for Fall 2024.

St. Thomas offers two admissions types – Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD). Both are free and completely non-binding, so you don't have to commit to St. Thomas until May 1.

• November 1 – Early Action Deadline
• January 15 – Regular Decision Deadline
• After January 15 – Applications reviewed on a rolling basis

What are we looking for?

There's no single thing we look for in an application. Each is evaluated holistically with your academic, extracurricular and personal achievements all considered.

We encourage students to provide a variety of details in their applications, including your academic records and insight into the experiences that have made you who you are.

Overall, the goal of our admissions process is to identify students who will succeed in the classroom while also contributing to our university and the broader community in diverse and meaningful ways.

How to Apply

Apply online (for free) using the Common App or our application for First-time, First-year Students:

• Start a New Application
• Continue Existing Application
• Contact Admissions

Does this sound like you?

To give you a sense about what successful applicants look like, here are some facts about our most recent first-year class:

• Middle 50 percent high school GPA: 3.4-3.9
• Middle 50 percent ACT: 24-29
• Middle 50 percent SAT: 1120-1360

Note: St. Thomas is a test optional school and students are not required to submit ACT or SAT test scores as part of their application. See our test optional policy for guidance on whether or not to submit your scores.

Parts of the Application

Transcript(s), test scores, essay questions, letters of recommendation, transcript(s) (required).

We require high school transcripts be sent to us before your application can be reviewed. This transcript must include your entire set of high school grades and courses to date.

We will accept unofficial transcripts for your application. You may submit an unofficial transcript by downloading it from your school system and sending it to [email protected] or your admissions counselor .

If you've attended multiple high schools – and your entire record isn't included on the transcript of your current high school – you're required to submit an official transcript from your previous high school(s) as well.

If you've taken college classes before, we recommend you submit official college transcripts as well – though this IS NOT required.

Students who are admitted and enroll: Please note that an OFFICIAL transcript will be required prior to starting classes at St. Thomas. This official transcript will need to be sent directly from your school and include your graduation date.

Impacts from COVID-19 We know that COVID-19 may have affected the way your school awards grades. We encourage you to share your story when applying for admission. Let us know how COVID-19 impacted your learning and grades/GPA.

Test Scores (Optional)

St. Thomas is a test optional school, which means that students are not required to submit ACT or SAT test scores as part of their application.

Our test optional page has more information about this policy and offers guidance about whether or not to submit your scores. Please contact your admissions counselor if you have any questions.

If you do choose to submit your test scores, you can self-report your highest composite and subject scores for the ACT and/or SAT on the application. Your scores DO NOT need to be officially sent to us during the application process.

Essay Questions (Recommended)

Though you aren't technically required to answer our essay questions, we highly recommend that you do – especially if you apply without test scores.*

Responses to these questions are used to understand the demographics of our applicant pool and may also be used for other limited purposes after an admission decision (for example, communication about student clubs or organizations that may be of interest) Your information regarding gender, pronouns, race and ethnicity will not be visible to the admissions committee and are not considered during the University of St. Thomas application review.

Below are the current essay prompts. You can choose to write about them or to submit a different personal essay of your choosing. We want to learn a little about you as a person, so please submit an essay that will help us do that.

• Discuss a meaningful contribution you have made through involvement in school, church, community activities or family responsibilities.
• Describe an event, a person or an educational experience that has had a major impact on your life and why.
• Share additional information about your personal story that would be beneficial to the application review process. What do you want the readers to know about you apart from courses and academic credentials?
• Provide an explanation of your transcript record. Is there anything on your transcript that you would like to share more information about with the admissions committee?

We recommend that your essay be one to two pages long.

We also ask a second essay question about your experience with diversity and inclusion. This essay is also optional, but will give you a chance to reflect and speak from your heart.

* If you're applying without a standardized test, we strongly recommend submitting both essays to provide a more well-rounded understanding of your experience.

Letters of Recommendation (Recommended)

Though it's not required, we suggest that you submit one or two letters of recommendation from teachers or other people in your life who can help us get to know you better as we review your application.

Recommenders can email letters to [email protected] or your admissions counselor .