Why Test Prep Still Matters for Top Students—and Their Futures

As educators, we often hear about students in unique situations where decisions about test preparation can profoundly impact their futures. Recently, I spoke with a parent whose story highlights why even the most accomplished students should consider preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.

This family’s daughter is an exceptional student—academically ranked in the top 10 of her high school class and a skilled lacrosse player recruited by a college in North Carolina. With the school’s test-optional admissions policy and the student’s stellar GPA, it seemed that skipping the SAT or ACT was a safe decision. However, two key developments changed their perspective:

1. The Link Between Test Scores and Financial Aid
   The college informed the family that improving the student's SAT or ACT scores could result in a more generous financial aid package. This is a common situation. Many colleges offer merit-based aid tied to test scores, even for test-optional applicants. A strong SAT or ACT score can be the difference between affording a dream school and facing financial barriers.
2. Doors Opening to Elite Opportunities
   A few Ivy League coaches expressed interest in the student but emphasized the importance of a competitive test score—specifically, at least a 1400 on the SAT or a 31 on the ACT—for their teams. These coaches explained that athletic spots often hinge on academic qualifications. If other recruits with higher rankings couldn’t meet the admissions threshold, this student’s test scores could secure her spot on an Ivy League roster.

The Takeaway: Preparedness Creates Opportunities

This story underscores why preparing for standardized tests can still be crucial, even for high-achieving students. Here’s why:

• Financial Leverage: Strong test scores can unlock additional scholarships or aid, reducing the financial strain of higher education.
• Competitive Advantage: Colleges and athletic programs often use test scores as a deciding factor when ranking applicants or recruits, particularly in selective environments.
• Future Flexibility: A solid test score opens doors to opportunities that students might not have anticipated, such as recruitment from top-tier programs or a shift in college preferences.

Supporting Your Student

If your high schooler is navigating similar decisions, encourage them to view test prep as an investment in their future. Here’s how to help:

• Set a Target Score: Research potential colleges’ score requirements or averages, especially for athletic recruitment.
• Create a Study Plan: A structured prep program, like those offered by Method Learning, can help students improve their scores efficiently while balancing their other commitments.
• Think Long-Term: Even if test scores aren’t required for admission, they can significantly impact scholarships and recruitment.

At Method Learning, we believe in empowering students with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. Whether your student is aiming for a test score that secures financial aid, an athletic opportunity, or admission to an elite school, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Let’s work together to turn challenges into opportunities and set your student up for success.