The Great SAT Score Submitting Saga: A Common App Adventure
Ah, the Common App. That glorious online portal that promises to simplify the college application process. It’s like a digital buffet of dreams, except instead of delicious food, you get to feast on essays, recommendations, and… SAT scores?
Yes, dear reader, the SAT is a beast that refuses to be ignored by many colleges. And navigating how to submit those precious test scores through the Common App can feel like trying to decipher hieroglyphics while juggling flaming torches. Fear not, my friend! This blog post is your guide to SAT score submission mastery.
The Common App: Where SAT Scores Go to Die (or Live)
The Common App is designed to streamline the application process, but when it comes to SAT scores, there’s a bit of a two-step dance.
- Step 1: The Common App’s “Testing” Section
Imagine the “Testing” section as the SAT score waiting room. It’s where you’ll go to tell the Common App about your test-taking adventures. * First, you’ll be asked if you’ve taken the SAT or ACT. If you have, click “Yes” and prepare for the next level. * Next, you’ll be prompted to enter your highest individual composite and section scores. Even if these scores come from different test dates, you’ll report the best ones. Think of it as a “best of the best” showcase. * Now comes the crucial part: do you have the SAT essay score? If yes, you’ll input your essay score. If not, simply answer “No” and the Common App will erase those pesky essay questions. No stress, no drama, just a clear application.
- Step 2: The College Board’s SAT Score Sending Spree
Now for the grand finale. You’ve filled out the Common App’s testing section, but your SAT scores haven’t magically teleported to your dream schools yet. This is where the College Board comes in, like a delivery driver for standardized test results. * Log into your College Board account. It’s like entering the control room of your SAT score destiny. * Go to the “Send SAT Scores” page. This is where you’ll select which colleges you want to receive your scores. * Choose which scores to send. You can send all your scores or just specific ones. This is a great way to only showcase your best SAT performance. * Review your order. Double-check that everything is correct before hitting that “send” button.
Common App & SAT Scores: A Love-Hate Relationship
The Common App and SAT scores can have a complicated relationship. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Test-Optional Schools: Your SAT Score Can Take a Vacation
Some schools are “test-optional,” meaning you don’t have to submit SAT scores. It’s like a vacation for your test anxiety! If a college is test-optional, you can choose to submit scores or not. * Pro Tip: Check each college’s admissions website to see if they are test-optional.
- Self-Reporting: The SAT Score Self-Service Option
In the Common App’s “Testing” section, you can often self-report your SAT scores. Think of it as a “tell us your scores, we’ll trust you” approach. However, be careful! * Pro Tip: Most colleges will require you to send an official score report from the College Board later on.
- Official Score Reports: The SAT Score’s “Official” Passport
The official SAT score report is the real deal, the golden ticket for your scores to reach their college destination. * Pro Tip: When you send your scores through the College Board, you’ll be sending an official report.
The SAT Score Submitting Journey: A Tale of Two Systems
The Common App and the College Board might seem like two separate entities, but they actually work together to deliver your SAT scores to their final destination.
- The Common App: The Application Gateway
The Common App is your central hub for managing your college applications. It’s where you enter your basic information, write essays, and (of course) submit your SAT scores.
- The College Board: The Score Delivery Service
The College Board is the official provider of the SAT. Think of them as the SAT score delivery service, responsible for sending official reports to colleges.
Navigating the SAT Score Maze: Your Essential Toolkit
- The College Board Website: Your SAT Score Headquarters
The College Board’s website is your one-stop shop for all things SAT-related. You can access your score reports, send scores to colleges, and find helpful information about the test.
- The Common App Website: Your Application Central
The Common App’s website is where you’ll create your application profile, fill out forms, and submit your application materials.
- Your High School Guidance Counselor: Your Personal College Application Guru
Your guidance counselor is a valuable resource for navigating the college application process. They can help you choose colleges, write essays, and ensure that all your application materials are in order.
SAT Score Submission: A Triumphant Conclusion
Submitting your SAT scores through the Common App doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Just remember to follow these key steps:
- Fill out the Common App’s “Testing” section. Enter your highest scores and answer the SAT essay question accurately.
- Log into your College Board account and go to the “Send SAT Scores” page. Select the colleges you want to receive your scores and choose which scores to send.
- Review your order and submit. Double-check everything before hitting that “send” button.
- Keep track of your score reports. Make sure your colleges have received your official reports.
Remember, the SAT is just one piece of the college application puzzle. Focus on your best self, your unique strengths, and your passion for learning. And if you need further help or have any questions, the JobLoving community is here for you! We’re a group of college application experts who love helping students navigate the college admissions process. Reach out to us for personalized guidance, tips, and support.
Good luck with your college applications! May your SAT scores soar to new heights!