You're very close to graduation and you can't wait. It's probably your junior or senior year and you've been hard at work for most of your life in compulsory education. After graduation, however, it is time to pursue your own academic goals. Problem is, a five-hour test stands in your way. So, like many others you stress out, take the test, and bomb it. What now? Will colleges laugh in your face when you apply?
If you've had a similar experience as the one described above, consider this: College admissions staff look at many different factors when making a decision about whether or not to admit a student. One of the main things college admissions staff are looking for is to see whether your high school academic profile indicates potential for academic success on their campus. They also look at other factors of the high school years: your grades in courses, what courses you took, your participation in extracurricular activities, etc. In addition, they will look at the essay you may have to write, the interview you may have had with the college, and anything else that may be required along with the college application.
Collegeboard.com also adds that Advanced Placement (AP) courses are a good college application booster. Have you taken any AP courses in high school? If so, how well did you do on the exams in these classes? High exam/class scores indicate (to college admission staff anyway) that you're ready to handle college-level work.
So you see, your SAT/ACT scores are just a piece of the pie. If you've done well in your courses, taken advanced courses, or even if you have participated in school sponsored extracurricular activities, you have a chance to get in. Besides, you can always retake the SAT/ACT anyway. You're very close so don't worry and good luck!
