<p><br/></p><p>I found an interesting article that speaks to the issue of SAT-score angst. There are definite, specific approaches that you can incorporate to overcome low scores or, perhaps more sensibly, sidestep the SAT entirely. Here are some excerpts from <a href="http://www.golocalprov.com/lifestyle/5-ways-to-overcome-low-sat-scores/" target="_blank">Cristiana Quinn's article</a>: </p><h2>... Ways to Overcome Low SAT Scores</h2><p><em>May and June SAT results are out, and many students feel a sense of disappointment and anxiety over low scores. Standardized tests are a part of the admissions process, but there are many effective strategies that can help applicants navigate the stormy waters of the SAT. Here are 5 things to consider.</em></p><h3><em>The SAT is coachable</em></h3><p><em> Studies have proven that SAT prep does raise scores. So, if you took a prep class in the winter or spring when you were deluged with class work and sports, consider some private tutoring sessions or self-study this summer when you have less going on. Baron's, Princeton Review and The Collegeboard all publish great books with lots of strategies and practice tests ...</em></p><h3><em>Try the ACT</em></h3><p><em> Although it is less popular on the east coast, the ACT is accepted at ALL 4-year colleges in the US, and it is just as respected as the SAT. It is based more on your coursework in school, and can often be a better test for students who do well academically but have difficulty with standardized tests ...</em></p><h3><em>Consider “Test Optional" colleges</em></h3><p><em> There are more than 800 colleges in the US that <strong>do not</strong> require you to submit SAT (or ACT) scores. From Bowdoin and Middlebury in New England to DePaul in the Midwest and Pitzer in California, an array of top-notch colleges exist where your scores don't have to affect your admission chances ... For a list of SAT optional colleges, go to <a href="http://www.fairtest.org/" target="_blank">www.fairtest.org</a>.</em></p><h3><em>Look for colleges with lower SAT ranges</em></h3><p><em> Not every college requires stellar SAT or ACT scores for admission. If your scores are low and you can't find SAT optional colleges that you like, it's time to look at colleges with a reasonable “mid 50% SAT/ACT range" ...</em></p><p rel="text-align: center" style="text-align: center">***</p><p style="text-align: left">Of the strategies above, my two favorites are finding test-optional schools and taking the ACT. The ACT is gaining in popularity on the SAT and accommodates the type of student who is more subject knowledgeable, rather than <em>concept</em> capable. Maybe <em>you're</em> that type of student.</p><p style="text-align: center">**********</p><p style="text-align: left">Be sure to check out all my admissions-related articles and book reviews at <a href="http://www.collegeconfidential.com/" target="_blank">College Confidential</a>.</p>
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