Do SAT Score Really Predict Success?

Universities in Singapore, USA and many other western countries have long relied on the results of Scholastic Assessment Test in measuring the readiness and aptitude of student applicants in facing the challenging university life. Since 1926, the SAT test has undergone numerous changes yet most university admissions around the globe can never be completed without SAT. However, academicians and students alike have questioned the credibility of SAT scores in predicting student success. To shed light on this topic, below are three arguments that support the weaknesses of the SAT scores. 

SAT-submitters versus non-submitters. Assessing the relevance of sat test singapore in predicting the success of students throughout their university journey requires a scientific approach. Fortunately, such method was implemented by William Hiss, former director of admissions at Bates College, and his team. This study compared the university GPA and graduation rates of two groups of students, one which submitted their SAT scores during admission and the other which did not submit their SAT scores since their chosen college made SAT scores as an optional requirement. The comprehensive study made use of the records of 123, 000 students from 33 public and private universities. Results showed that the students who did not submit their SAT scores manifested 0.05 lower GPA as compared to the SAT test submitters. With respect to graduation rates, data revealed that a 0.6 percent difference is seen between the two groups. These findings reveal that SAT scores do not significantly predict the success of university students in terms of grades and graduation rates.

SAT scores and family income. A number of data have shown that SAT scores of students in the USA increase with every $20, 000 augmentations in their household income. This is based on the idea that SAT tests can be coached by skilled tutors and that wealthy students can always have the advantage of availing this much needed academic boost. The same trend is seen in Singapore since well-off families can order expensive review and SAT practice books overseas and they are also able to subscribe to quality tuition centres. 

High school grades as better predictor. Longitudinal studies of decades of SAT implementation were analyzed by scientists and it revealed that high school GPA is a better indicator of the students’ potential success in their respective college degrees. Academicians said that the discipline and dedication developed by students during their four years in secondary education are the factors that will more likely influence and predict their college GPA. 

Though it is true that formidable scientific data debunks the connection of SAT score with student success in the university and even in their future career, it still cannot be denied that the SAT is an objective and acceptable method of determining the intellectual preparedness of students. Yet, changes must be incorporated, especially on test preparation, in order to lessen the influence of socio-economic status on the students’ SAT scores.