How important is the SAT/ACT score for college admissions?

Hi! I'm a junior and I'm planning to take the SAT or ACT soon. I'm a little stressed about how much my score will impact my chances of getting into a good college. Are standardized test scores really that important? Thanks for your help!

Hi there! It's completely normal to feel stressed about taking the SAT or ACT, but try not to let it overwhelm you. While standardized test scores are an important factor in college admissions, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Admissions officers also consider your grades, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and essays when making their decisions. In fact, many schools are becoming test-optional or test-flexible, meaning they don't require SAT or ACT scores for admission. My own child went through the process not too long ago, and we found that focusing on maintaining a strong GPA, getting involved in meaningful activities, and writing compelling essays were just as crucial. So, while it's important to do your best on the SAT or ACT, remember that there are other aspects of your application that can showcase your abilities and potential.