@SupertutorTV I really like your channel and watch your clips often to learn about trends in elite college admissions. Thank you. However, I don't agree with you when you say that testing "levels the playing field" to access seats at these institutions. Having access to very expensive private and personalized test-prep is another advantage that economically challenged students DO NOT have. They can't afford to pay expert SAT/ACT tutors, such as yourself, to work with them on their specific areas weakness that could dramatically improve their scores. So, college admissions standardized testing really aren't an egalitarian process.
Can you fill out an application? Do you answer the question? Do you grasp the question and can you address it accurately conveying thoughts.... Are you simply a racist seeking to exclude those you disagree or does your application accuse others of racism? Many problems arise before your lack of math, command of writing or expression. Blaming others getting the same classroom education as yourself for privilige is a red flag.
For anyone who’s feeling down: Romans 8:18 “The pain you’ve been feeling can’t compare to the joy that is coming!” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Whatever is going on right now, have faith, your situation will get better. :) Jesus bless anyone reading this and have a great day!!🥰✨💖
John Messay Don’t think any less of yourself, friend. :) You are not defined by your accomplishments. Understand that you are enough just as you are and the right opportunities and people will recognize that! God bless you!!🙏🏽✨💖
I was an international senior applicant this year and I felt so defeated to be honest. I understand the reasons for my less than stellar admissions decisions, but it wounded me so badly because I thought I did everything right. I got a good SAT score, I performed well academically, I was apart of the executive body of various clubs and I participated in competitions and conferences about activities I really enjoy, and all of the sacrifice (financially and otherwise) is debilitating to me. I hope the juniors this year will have better prospects because no one deserves to feel this way.
I'm so sorry to hear that. You sound like an amazing student, and those colleges definitely missed out. Where ever you go is where you are meant to be, and make the best out of it. You got this, I believe in you!
I dreamed of the Ivy League for years but I decided not to even apply because of the financial impact of Covid-19 and general uncertainty in the air. I'm going to an in-state college/seminary and that's fine. Good luck my Ivy friends! Those of you who are still trying to do the near impossible under strained circumstances are amazing.
I agree so much with number four. In most countries, except the USA, test grades matter a whole lot since there aren't as many fancy activities you can take or great teacher recs.
I agree so much about standardized testing needing to stay. They are one of the few equalizers in admissions, and even if they’re not 100% fair, without them admissions would rely so much more on factors completely outside of students’ control - which is the most unfair thing possible.
I absolutely agree with your viewpoint. My Opinion - I think it will be very hard for Homeschool and International students as there is no other way to measure their education system and also a bit hard for US Students too Because (whether nationally or internationally) Schools differ, Some are hard and some are easy. Generally, most people can afford SAT and I think it also gives fee waivers, But if SATs are Cancelled they will focus more on GPA and APs and I would rather take SAT than piss my pants over 18-20 APs, Hell Nah, I can't even afford that sh*t. If we compare by GPAs then students of the school which is harder will get low acceptances and students from easy schools will get high acceptances, If we consider by APs, most can't afford it and most people would certainly not like to give 18 APs. APs aren't available everywhere except 5-6 countries. (In a big country like Russia, there is not a single AP Test Taking Centre that I know of) Also, If we work so damn hard and students who haven't even taken the sat to get in and not us! Then only three words describe that "WTH?" I.E. John works his a## off for 6 months to get 1480 and the next day these people take a guy who hadn't given the sat above him so John just basically wasted 6 months and even worst-case scenario: He wanted to apply to UCs. My friend went from 1200 to 1580 in 2 months by using khan academy and Collegeboard's guide and QAS past papers
Standardized testing was made for couples such as ACT and College Board to add a platform for application, but also to make money. The truth is, most people are not gifted test takers and it has been proven tests are not a accurate or fair measure for human intelligence or of likes of admission due to humans genetically having skills which aren't catered towards TESTS. They add unexplained anxiety, and for those who aren't prodigies they will need to study for those tests. With what? Test books. Flashcards. And many expensive thinks unprivileged children cannot access thus waving them out. Plus, the SAT and ACT is a measure of general knowledge while students go to study a SPECIFIC subject where they should be tested IN THAT area like UK's A Levels exams, which have a direct reflection on the child's school performance and not just how they comprehend a bunch of practice books. For those who support standardized testing, you are wrong unfortunately, and you don't understand that there are easier methods to go about these.
Tests are a mix of knowledge and of how well you know the test. They aren't all "secret sauce" -- much of them is actually testing what students know. Reading comprehension? Check. Algebra? Check. I teach SAT now but in high school I scored in the 99th % with a book, my bedroom door shut, and 5 or so practice tests in two weekends. That's because I had great public school teachers and a penchant for obscure vocabulary, challenging math problems, and clever ways to figure out answers to questions on multiple choice tests. I never had a tutor. But most kids can't show up and do that. Yes, the "secrets" of the test amount to 70-100 points IMO as a prep tutor. The bigger problem: there is a lack of educational baseline, not just lack of access to test prep. Most colleges look at scores in CONTEXT -- University of California found that they helped identify talented low income students the MOST. About 20% of Stanford admits in 2020 had 1200- 1400 SAT scores. It's certainly not an easy road, but the biggest inequity is much bigger than just a test-- it's the entire education system that's unfair. We don't stand and say "Hey it's unfair. Simone Biles could afford an amazing coach. She doesn't deserve an Olympic Medal" -- No, we look at the raw performance. Education is different and rightly so because it is part "award" and part "opportunity." Likewise, an under-resourced student with talent may eventually outperform a highly resourced student, but not necessarily. That's where things get sticky. At the end of the day tests are a tool and the decision is and always has been up to the colleges more than everyone else. Test or no test, they decide how much it counts, in what context, and in what what.
I was rejected from UChicago (ED), Columbia, Princeton, UCLA, Berkeley, and UCSD. My grades were good, my extracurriculars list was very competitive, my essays were also well written, my test scores were high... I made such huge sacrifices of time, effort, and money for this whole process for nothing. It made me feel so horrible I don't have words to describe. Luckily, I'm attending LSE next year, so things did turn out fine at the end.
Not Brooke, but... it depends. First, it depends on where you're applying. In anything but the most competitive colleges, if it's a good WOW, then probably. For the most competitive colleges (probably the top 50ish), then it's going to depend. If it's a single C in Freshman and there's explanatory factors, demonstrated improvement, etc. and a good wow-factor, yes, it can compensate. But the more the grades suffer (more C grades, lower average), the more it impacts the decision. The colleges are looking at your coursework and grades as part of a package to try to tell (a) if you're a good fit for their college and (b) if you are prepared for the college experience. In the competitive colleges, particularly, not being able to pull higher grades in high school classes is seen as an indication that you probably won't be able to do the academic work required at the college level. So, a single C with extenuating circumstances is something you can get around in competitive colleges. A C average is a much, much harder sell. I hope that helps.
@@EliseLogan wait so what about if you were an A-B student freshman year but went to a C student sophomore year because of COVID.Would that damage your chances of getting in ?
@@aegis8265 for an elite level competitive school? Sadly, probably yes. With the admission rates so low, they're less likely to make allowances. Though, to be truthful, for certain kinds of wow factors, schools will overlook that kind of thing - but those are going to be pretty unusual (like national level awards or major legacy points - or something the school REALLY wants - athletes or specific niches). But that's my opinion, and if Brooke disagrees, I'd take her judgment over mine, as I haven't done college consulting in a few years. ETA: That's for the highest level competitive schools. The less competitive schools are going to be more likely to make allowances if you pull everything back into line Junior and Senior years, esp. if you have other factors working in your favor.
Point taken on standardized tests in terms of access. But even there, the privileged still have an overwhelming advantage because of the ability to pay for expensive test prep courses and even more expensive private tutoring, much of which focuses on tricks to game the test. It is never a level playing field.
Unpopular Opinion- SATs shouldn't be Cancelled. My Opinion - I think it will be very hard for Homeschool and International students as there is no other way to measure their education system and also a bit hard for US Students too Because (whether nationally or internationally) Schools differ, Some are hard and some are easy. Generally, most people can afford SAT and I think it also gives fee waivers, But if SATs are Cancelled they will focus more on GPA and APs and I would rather take SAT than piss my pants over 18-20 APs, Hell Nah, I can't even afford that sh*t. If we compare by GPAs then students of the school which is harder will get low acceptances and students from easy schools will get high acceptances, If we consider by APs, most can't afford it and most people would certainly not like to give 18 APs. APs aren't available everywhere except 5-6 countries. (In a big country like Russia, there is not a single AP Test Taking Centre that I know of) Also, If we work so damn hard and students who haven't even taken the sat to get in and not us! Then only three words describe that "WTH?" I.E. John works his a## off for 6 months to get 1480 and the next day this people take a guy who hadn't given the sat above him so John just basically wasted 6 months and even worst-case scenario: He wanted to apply to UCs. My friend went from 1200 to 1580 in 2 months by using khan academy and Collegeboard's guide and QAS past papers
@You- know-who I never quite understand the "life's not fair" argument to justify unfairness in any realm. That doesn't solve anything and there is no reason why we should not try to level the playing field when it comes to educating our children. The better observation is that life seems to be more fair for some than it is for others. We should simply let it stay that way? Or, perhaps, how about we recognize the inequity and try to do something about it. Otherwise, certain colleges and universities will remain accessible primarily to upper middle class and wealthy white people in a country that in 10-20 years will be majority non-white..
You don’t need expensive test prep or private tutoring to score high. I got a really good score with just the free Khan Academy practice. It’s really a mindset in my opinion.
@@WangMotions Just because something worked for you doesn’t mean it works for other people. It would be great if it did. This is one of the reasons why college admissions is not organic. Lots of kids kick ass on standardized precisely because of expensive test prep, learning tricks, etc. Problem is that colleges cannot distinguish between the student who scored well because she is smart or whether she's just really good at standardized tests or if her parents spent 10 grand on tutors.
More applicants due to many top schools going test optional this past year. More applications + Same (or fewer) number of limited slots for admission = More rejections and lower acceptance rates. This is not rocket science, people.
Word like all these schools going test optional and now you don’t have to show your disciplinary record on your transcript. So that means you have a lot of below average students applying to colleges, that were not doing that a couple years ago.
This is just a theory I am suggesting, but also may make some sense concerning the sudden increase and sharp decrease in the 2020 and 2021 applicant pools, respectively. 2020 was probably one of, if not the most concerning year for colleges and universities in regards to their finances. There were so many unknowns in regards to how to handle the pandemic and how the 2020 school year would play out. In an effort to maintain their financial standings, I believe colleges in 2020 accepted far more “borderline” students. I use “borderline” as a term to describe students who were decently strong applicants that just barely satisfied the “minimum requirements” to be considered and admitted to top tier colleges and universities. Why would colleges do this? Students who are on the lower tier of the applicant pool, just barely meeting “minimum requirements,” have the highest chance of enrolling in the university regardless of their financial aid package. For example, let’s pretend a student applies to USC with a 32 ACT and a 3.9 weighted GPA, with typical extracurriculars, good class rigor, and showing some excellence academically through honors societies and AP awards. Certainly a good applicant, but perhaps not exceptional for typical USC standards. However, through the uncertainty of 2020, if a student had such qualifications, and their EFC (Estimated Family Contribution) was determined that they were able to afford all expenses of the school, in full, with no financial aid, these applicants were accepted. In essence, elite colleges in 2020 perhaps weighed student financial situations and student qualifications equally to admit applicants who could afford the expenses in full. It was, perhaps, an effort by universities to save their butts financially. But why does this mean 2021 applicants got the short end of the stick? Because colleges admitted so many students in 2020, it stands to reason that acceptance rates in 2021 were going to be heavily decreased to maintain capacity constraints at the colleges and universities. Focus once again shifted to academic performance and the applicants themselves, regardless of their financial situation. Because of this, qualifications for applicants were more strictly adhered to then ever before, and 2021 applicants happened to take the hit. Again, this is just a theory. Let me know your thoughts :)
That is true. Former admissions people have said that they often will pick the student who can pay full tuition vs. one who can’t. It’s a business we have to remember.
I feel like too many of my peers feel this way so to anyone reading this, what college you go to doesn’t determine you self-worth! Don’t beat yourself up too much over statistics. You’re an individual, not a number.
Judging by college decision reaction videos on RUclips, the top schools are being spammed by applicants, with some seniors applying to as many as 55 colleges.
I got waitlisted to not one, not two, but THREE Ivy Leagues, (Harvard, Brown, and Dartmouth) and they sent emails of top consideration then just boom rejection. Man so close but so far man I feel robbed of my dreams, Dartmouth was my dream school, man this summer has been the worst.
@@nylah.reneee Citizen living abroad (in Canada). Went test optional, 97% overall highschool average. Played 3 varsity sports, volunteered for school and community, Duke of Ed gold and silver awards, wrote essay about a life changing event (mass shooting)
Any advice? I am a rising junior with not much extracurriculars and a couple B’s and Princeton is my dream school. Do u have any tips on how I can get impressive extracurriculars?
Hi!!! I just want to say thank you so so much for your courses and videos! I got into my dream school, Columbia University, because of your help and I’m so grateful 😁 my SAT went up 210 points
@@tanushreebiswas6166 hey! The application process is lengthily, but I didn’t do it through an agency. All of my friends that did didn’t get into the schools they wanted, but I did do all of my own research, and I just would recommend that you really dig into what your first choice colleges prefer in a candidate.
@@vaishnavinayak5917 Each college posts their SAT stats. Really not useful to ask this since they consider each applicant uniquely, meaning having a certain GOA , test score, or ECA will not guarantee you get in,
At this point, I lost all hope and I screwed my chances of getting accepted into any college. I've been battling mental illness for some months now and a relative passed away, so my academic performance dropped significantly. Of course, I'm not writing a pity explanation narrative for the admissions office to read: that would be humiliating, and I know people have it WAY harder and they still excel in everything. As an international student, I'm so scared for 2022, because I know I just screwed the hard work I've been doing during all my academic life. Guess I'll die *inserts jpg*
I am so sorry you are going through mental health struggles but I just wanted to tell you, you are not alone. I have also screwed my chance bc I was too depressed to do extracurriculars and do good in school and I’m abt to be a junior. But I think it is great we made it out alive before we think about college or anything else we first have to be mentally stable and I am sure we will both succeed and end up somewhere great.
Hey, you don't have feel that way. I believe there are certainly colleges that would still accept you. Even if we are in a terrible situation, which is, to be fair, extremely frightening, don't let this bring you down! There are new policies when applying to colleges: you can write a community disruptive essay without wasting any of your prompts and possibly explain what amazing things you've made out of the current situation. You also get the chance to work on some online projects before applying. Make the best out of where you are at at the moment and don't be scared.
It would be great for you to produce a video on the financial impact to the Tutoring industry of Test optional becoming a standard for colleges, what % of our revenue is at risk and how the industry could pivot to other revenue streams. In our community families spend thousands if not tens of thousands preparing their kids for the SAT / ACT tests over multiple years. Maybe also how you are change the narrative on the value of testing from “It only shows how well you can game the test” : Wealth to “Testing is a valuable way to understand how prepared someone is” : Insight. Or is it like moving deck chairs around on the titanic? Interested on an insiders view - thanks
In my country, admission rates are lower (especially the top Unis) because standardized tests / CET's (College Entrance Tests) are unavailable due to the pandemic and they rely primarily on grades in HS. It's really unfair and this is why I'd rather have a CET because it's actually indicative of the students who truly mastered their highschool classes. It's just not right because different schools have different standards of grading. In some schools, you get a 95+ / 4.0 gpa / A+ even if you barely have anything in your head. In others, it's quite the opposite-you can be real smart and prudent but a 90+ would be hard to achieve. This is why I abhor schools with easy standards.
the same thing happens in my country ! schools have different levels of difficulty and usually it's the private and most expensive schools that are easier
@@whisperingdonut Exactly! Although in here, it can be both the private and public schools that are easy. You won't believe how some schools here have ridiculously easy standards and it's making my blood boil lmao. It's straight up unfair because some of these students aren't even academically competent yet they have the highest chance to get into the top Universities just because their schools give out easy A's. Meanwhile, competent students who truly deserve a slot can't get in because their schools are really competitive and don't just give out easy A's-you have to earn them. At the end of the day, Entrance examinations are for everyone's good. With it, you're able to tell who's the best and who truly mastered their highschool studies. Moreover, the kids coming from easy, low-standard schools that will get into top universities are ill-prepared and will drastically suffer because the environment is so much different from their old, less complete schools. Unfortunately, on the other hand, deserving students who can *actually* handle these Universities get rejected because their grades don't make the cut (due to higher standards in their respective schools) There seriously needs to be some sort of educational reform to make all educational institutions in our country more advanced and efficient. I'm just thankful that one top University in my country takes into account the highschool you came from (this implies that even if you have excellent grades, it won't guarantee you admission which really makes me happy for the students who really deserve a slot). Yet, some students actually have the audacity against this policy lol, saying things like "is is our fault that these are the school we got into?" Yeah, partially. If you wanna get into a top University as much as possible, you also have to consider your highschool. You can't just go into an easy ass Highschool and easily get good grades and expect the top institutions to accept you LMAO. I'm sorry for the rant, I just wanna vent out.
@Awe Sean I'm from the Philippines. Seriously, there needs to be some sort of thorough academic reform in here to make sure both the education system and the students are more competitive and advanced. There was this national exam (NCAE) that we took in 9th grade and I easily scored within the 99th+ percentile among 1,000,000+ test takers. I found the exam really easy and didn't even review for it. That really shows how much we're lagging behind in terms of education. Keep in mind these 1,000,000 test takers are now the same students I'm competing for admissions.
To add, look up how low the Philippines scores and performs in examinations conducted by international organizations that also tests and compares other countries. We're embarrassingly ranked at the bottom rung. I believe in the great, and untapped potential of my country's students (and people) if the government here wasn't so incompetent and corrupted, no doubt we would've been better in a lot, if not, all integral aspects of society.
See but the problem is these test aren’t testing knowledge they are testing how well you know the test. Which in a way hinders a lot more kids. Especially in the Lower income areas. Like my school is Title 1 and we don’t have a lot of things that a school that’s a 5 minute drive away. It becomes unfair. And yes khan academy and books help but a lot of kids don’t learn that way
yes, but someone with small opportunities is more likely to study hard and get a good grade, whereas they may never have the chance to participate in any activities. A good grade is better than nothing, and as you said, Khan academy is a great resource for those who are willing to put in the time and increase their chances of getting into a better school.
I’m not saying tests are perfect. Nor am I even saying that they should be required. But I don’t think it’s fair when schools are test blind, when they’re perfectly fine accepting all kinds of other achievements like winning national fencing championships.I’m just saying a lot of the things that edge kids in at these elite schools correlate with wealth, and a lot of them correlate more with wealth than test scores. So at least tests are something you can achieve no matter what your background is. I’m not saying that wealth doesn’t make it easier to achieve on them, but just that you’ve got a chance. I also think colleges look at them in context. Almost 20% of Stanford’s class year had SAT scores under 1400. If you are low income, the bar is not going to be the same as if you are in the 1%. The UC system did a study and found that test scores actually helped identify talented low income students the most for this reason. And it found when you took the test away and used GPA alone, that those metrics were less predictive of student success in low income groups.
@@Ahsoka501st Good move. There is nothing special about NYU with the exception of being in NYC and one really has to know they want to be in NYC. Still, for $75-80k? Nope. You made a smart, mature decision. Good luck to you.
And what about international students with certificates from the cambridge curriculum who want to apply to US colleges, what are their chances of being accepted?
I can't compensate my gpa without SAT, I've been preparing for it a lot and spent more than the exam costs. Those people who wanted to pass in May still didn't pass it in my country. And I was going to pass it in August but there are no available registration even though it is the time for it... Im freaking scared...
I agree that tests are more accessible than other factors mentioned. However, there is an undeniable advantage that more privileged students have in these standardized tests as well. Some students from underprivileged household might have to work to support their family which means they likely cant devote as much time to balance school and studying for these tests. Not only that, but a lot of SAT/ACT preparation courses are time consuming as well as expensive and not everyone has access to these “elite” courses that essentially teach you the exam. (Obviously this is less of a problem now if one has access to the internet, but a lot of the online resources don’t compare to having a private tutor like some privileged students can afford).
Also for international students :/ the SAT and ACT are extremely inaccesible because the fees are sooo much higher than they are in the US. Plus the test centers are also pretty scarce. So as a kid from Latin America myself, the standardized tests do present a challenge, and now that I wasn’t able to take it this year, I don’t know if it will actually be a disadvantage in my college admissions:(
I got rejected from 11 colleges for computer science and was feeling so terrible . Thankfully I got into Umich Engineering (along with 2 more) so that's where I'll be going. But I'm a michigan resident so I feel like I had an easier time but am still thankful to be living in Michigan lol
I disagree with your point about tests being available to all students. Those who come from wealthy backgrounds have more access to tutoring and resources. They also have the ability to take the tests as many times as they want. Some are also able to obtain special handicaps like extended time.
“We need to accept that we won’t always make the right decisions, that we’ll screw up royally sometimes - understanding that failure is not the opposite of success, it’s part of success.”some of us we see failing as failure. Have a delightful day sharing some positivity to your side
Nothing will level the playing field. But everything besides tests (recommendations -- which are stronger from private schools and small elite high schools generally, grades-- which are prone to inflation and in the times of COVID 19 school from home cheating, activities-- which favor pay to play and obscure sports that not all can afford, essays-- which a Stanford study recently showed correlate with wealth based on subject matter more than test scores do) is just as biased toward privilege, if not more so. That's the problem.
@@brookifyd do you know what the history of the SAT is? It was first drafted by a psychometrician who intended to measure the G-factor of pre-college students across the USA. Poor students are products of poor parents, and wealth positively correlates with intelligence.
In my opinion, you should write about school accomplishments. The example you gave them is not school relatives. You can say on your college essay that you have a good GPA, good grades, involved in school clubs, awards, and test scores as well too. No college or university will care about what you went through, they will only care about the effort you put through in school.
@@bibhaspantha1112 don’t listen to the other guy. You do not want to talk about your academics in your college essay. Your transcript already shows that. Your essay should be personal.
@@leoliu5969 i have more than a year left so im just asking for different people's point of view, its alright what your view is... i just need to know what different people find good or bad in the college essay
@@bibhaspantha1112 okay that’s good. I am glad you are a very open-minded person. But I do need to say this, I can be almost 100% sure what the other guy replied was wrong. Personal statement essay is a chance for you to show colleges who you are as a person beyond your transcripts. It would be really wasteful to talk about your academics when your transcripts and teacher recommendations already show your academics. Use the college essay as a chance to tell colleges something unique about yourself.
Also I noticed it's always like a 60:40 split this year for non test takers and test takers at most schools. It makes it feel like I wasted so much time and money for an ACT 34 for absolutely nothing.
read the book “and still we rise” to discover why putting so much emphasis on standardized testing can be dangerous. i know you’re in the business of selling SAT/ACT prep, but i personally believe a shift back to testing won’t benefit a lot of students at less privileged schools. again, that is personal.
not really but generally the only colleges that like this profile are private colleges trying to meet budget targets by enrolling kids who can pay full fare
I believe GPA is actually the most important factor as a survey from colleges have noted. But by being the best in other factors including SAT then its possible to get into a more selective school.
“Sneak in?” The admissions officers know what they’re doing. They wouldn’t let in a completely unqualified applicant-transcript, ECs, etc. can say a lot about a student. Plus, admission rates for T/O applicants were MUCH lower than those with test scores
@@Olivia-uq4ls you missed the point. The students THOUGHT they can sneak in, but they obviously still stood no chance. That’s why the admissions rate dropped. Many stubborn and dilusional applicants thought that could get in without test scores, when in reality they all got rejected
I have to disagree with you on the standardized test point. I don’t see how they can accurately asses a students math and reading comprehension when doing well on theses test requires you to study for the test. Increasingly you see people who are privileged can afford expensive Test prep classes where as a underprivileged student may not have access to these extensive prep courses. Yes anyone can take them but those who are privileged know how to do well.
Great analysis! Do you think there is a possibility that UCs will return to using some sort of test int the future? I know that their plan was to develop an independent test but it seems like their test blind status may be permanent.
Transferring anywhere that is highly competitive in the next couple years is going to be very difficult. These schools are going to be pressed by all the upperclassmen who took gap years. Transferring to lower ranked schools may be easier. Overall admissions were way down this last year and some less prestigious colleges are fighting to keep enough students on campus to stay afloat.
Privilege is not just expensive test preps, extracurricular activities, internships. Privilege is also being able to afford these elite schools. Charging 80k+ tuition and more per year. My take is unless you come from an ultra wealthy family where money grows on the tree, no 4 year college of any kind is worth to in-debt yourself for life. None. This is truly not emphasized enough. Number one priority should be debt free college degree. Period.
Many of these colleges offer excellent financial aid - for low income students it is often cheaper to attend a college like Harvard or Stanford than community college. True some students get caught in the middle- they look rich on paper but don’t have cash flow or their parents refuse to contribute if they have the funds. And not all competitive colleges offer enough aid- NYU for example is notorious for under funding many middle class kids- but assuming an elite college means debt if you aren’t rich is a vast oversimplification
@@SupertutorTV by financial aid do you mean loans or scholarships? Because yes in theory a low income student could go to Harvard and take out student loans... but they still have to pay that all off right? So if it’s like free money, then it’s obviously more worth it but if you have to pay that 80k tuition off eventually that is just so not worth it.
Lots of people who had no business applying to top colleges thought that because of "test optional policies" they'd apply -- otherwise they had no chance. (Guess what: You still had no chance.) There were plenty of alternate ways to assess the data (e.g., interviews conducted in English are a better way of figuring out communicaton skills, AIME qualification, especially before 12th grade, is a better indicator of math ability than an 800 on the SAT, and MIT had plenty of other ways to assess abilities in specific fields).
Studies show standardized tests actually help to identify the really talented disadvantaged students. Low income kids usually don’t have great extra curriculars because they’re helping the family by working and ECs take money. That’s why low income kids usually are not in sports. Even learning how to swim costs money. And SAT/ACT is the one criteria in admissions where you can’t commit fraud (lie). It is very difficult to cheat on those exams. It is the FAIREST part of admissions.
Standardized tests help people of a higher socioeconomic status. They only measure a person's intellect the first time they take the test. We all know that they are never going to criticize standardized tests because their job is dependent on the test existing.
Can someone please explain to me what is a gap year? Does it mean that a student has to be accepted by a college first but he wants to take a year off? Would colleges allow students to do that?
I don't agree that standardized tests even the playing field between the privileged and not so privileged. The privileged still have access to tutors and those huge, costly testing books and are able to pay to take the test over and over until they get the score they want. Their schools are also equipped with more and better services and resources. Also some students, privileged or not, don't test well but are as smart as heck. I think standardized tests don't need to be such a huge determining factor and I'm disappointed you would feed into this.
I wish there were more considerations regarding covid instead of lowering the acceptance rate (not talking about SATs). I'm an international student and I wasn't as privileged with school being online, with ECAS, etc. Good luck to class of 2022!
This would be my personal opinion on testing is that there is still a divide whether you believe it or not. The people who do good on these tests on average are the more wealthier families because they have so many resources around them to make sure that their kids get the best score possible. That isn’t the case with the lower class of society. We don’t have those opportunities like you guys do to even learn “basic” concepts. Because the education that we receive sometimes isn’t the best.
Would someone who has high grades and a low SAT score get a more likelihood of getting admitted than someone with high grades and no standardized test scores?
I'm a college student who finished his associate's degree with high honors and got rejected everywhere except my safety that gave me no financial aid, what's next for me?
I still would because it’s not certain if schools will still be test optional when we apply. I know schools like USC will remain test optional when class of ‘23 will apply to college but not much info from other schools.
Take a practice SAT and a practice ACT. You should be able to figure out which one works better for you. Absolutely take one of them and if you are not satisfied with your score, take it again. And perhaps again,, but you do need to prepare. Anyone who tells you not to take either because some schools are test optional doesn't know what they are talking about.
Yes, especially if you are looking for academic scholarships, my college said I didn't need the sat but if I didn't do it I couldn't be considered for academic scholarships
This year i almost got rejected from everywhere. I am either gonna take a gap year re apply or go to a community college. But i am worried about the process becoming eveb more competitive after the gap year. What should i do
Having a high IQ is really only helpful for pushing from that 1500 to 1600 mark IMO. You can certainly increase your SAT by 700, because the test is predictable and is basically just lists of concepts you need to learn. It’s no different than a class, and you wouldn’t let a class determine your IQ, right? Although IQ does help, no one should use it as an excuse for a low score given the predictability of the SAT
Hi Brooke!! Should current underclassmen be focusing more on standardized testing, or should we be putting a greater focus on a wow factor? Basically, which do you think will have a greater weight on admissions in the upcoming years?
if you’re only a freshman or sophomore you don’t need to be studying for the SAT or ACT. you can focus on a wow factor, good grades, extracurriculars, teacher connections etc
If I get a 3.3 gpa in freshman year , then get a 4.58 gpa in sophomore , 4.87 gpa in junior year and 5.01 in senior year , can I still have a chance to go to top college . I also got the sat score of 1540 and took 11 AP class during high school.
![Cody Johnson - I'm Gonna Love You (with Carrie Underwood) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yy9PuYMU29g/mqdefault.jpg)
For full stats on the 30 most competitive colleges in 2021 see our blog: supertutortv.com/college/2021stats/
Where are my scared students applying for 2022 school year
Here
Right here, been stressed for like half a year
Here here!
Here...unfortunately...
here 😐👍🏼
@SupertutorTV I really like your channel and watch your clips often to learn about trends in elite college admissions. Thank you. However, I don't agree with you when you say that testing "levels the playing field" to access seats at these institutions. Having access to very expensive private and personalized test-prep is another advantage that economically challenged students DO NOT have. They can't afford to pay expert SAT/ACT tutors, such as yourself, to work with them on their specific areas weakness that could dramatically improve their scores. So, college admissions standardized testing really aren't an egalitarian process.
Can you fill out an application? Do you answer the question? Do you grasp the question and can you address it accurately conveying thoughts.... Are you simply a racist seeking to exclude those you disagree or does your application accuse others of racism? Many problems arise before your lack of math, command of writing or expression. Blaming others getting the same classroom education as yourself for privilige is a red flag.
For anyone who’s feeling down:
Romans 8:18 “The pain you’ve been feeling can’t compare to the joy that is coming!” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Whatever is going on right now, have faith, your situation will get better. :) Jesus bless anyone reading this and have a great day!!🥰✨💖
Thanks. I really thought less of myself for a whole year even though I gave it my everything and I don't think it's worth it anymore.
John Messay Don’t think any less of yourself, friend. :) You are not defined by your accomplishments. Understand that you are enough just as you are and the right opportunities and people will recognize that! God bless you!!🙏🏽✨💖
I was an international senior applicant this year and I felt so defeated to be honest. I understand the reasons for my less than stellar admissions decisions, but it wounded me so badly because I thought I did everything right. I got a good SAT score, I performed well academically, I was apart of the executive body of various clubs and I participated in competitions and conferences about activities I really enjoy, and all of the sacrifice (financially and otherwise) is debilitating to me. I hope the juniors this year will have better prospects because no one deserves to feel this way.
I'm so sorry to hear that. You sound like an amazing student, and those colleges definitely missed out. Where ever you go is where you are meant to be, and make the best out of it. You got this, I believe in you!
Same here buddy. I don't know where I went wrong. I got rejected from six different schools as they couldn't give me financial aid
I feel you bro, same with my application, I think it's because I asked for financial aid. Very few international students get any.
by any chance did you take IB? and if you don't mind me asking how much did you score for the SAT
If it's ok, can I ask about your SAT score, your GPA/grades, and your extra curricular activities?
I dreamed of the Ivy League for years but I decided not to even apply because of the financial impact of Covid-19 and general uncertainty in the air. I'm going to an in-state college/seminary and that's fine. Good luck my Ivy friends! Those of you who are still trying to do the near impossible under strained circumstances are amazing.
The Ivy League is nothing more than an athletic conference.
May the Lord bless you and keep you
Good. Hopefully you get lesser loans
Better luck in grad school
@@gheller2261 Ivy league is way way way overrated.
Me who’s graduating college in a month: “Interesting.”
Lucky jerk
are u high?
@@glamspam3327 y-yes?
glamspam ask the RUclips algorithm lol
Just finishing my first year of college, still here for some reason.
I agree so much with number four. In most countries, except the USA, test grades matter a whole lot since there aren't as many fancy activities you can take or great teacher recs.
So true
I agree so much about standardized testing needing to stay. They are one of the few equalizers in admissions, and even if they’re not 100% fair, without them admissions would rely so much more on factors completely outside of students’ control - which is the most unfair thing possible.
Yes I agree. People love to hate on standardized tests and for good reasons too but the SAT and ACT’s existence is better than no SAT or ACT.
exactly!
I absolutely agree with your viewpoint.
My Opinion - I think it will be very hard for Homeschool and International students as there is no other way to measure their education system and also a bit hard for US Students too Because (whether nationally or internationally) Schools differ, Some are hard and some are easy. Generally, most people can afford SAT and I think it also gives fee waivers, But if SATs are Cancelled they will focus more on GPA and APs and I would rather take SAT than piss my pants over 18-20 APs, Hell Nah, I can't even afford that sh*t. If we compare by GPAs then students of the school which is harder will get low acceptances and students from easy schools will get high acceptances, If we consider by APs, most can't afford it and most people would certainly not like to give 18 APs. APs aren't available everywhere except 5-6 countries. (In a big country like Russia, there is not a single AP Test Taking Centre that I know of)
Also, If we work so damn hard and students who haven't even taken the sat to get in and not us! Then only three words describe that "WTH?" I.E. John works his a## off for 6 months to get 1480 and the next day these people take a guy who hadn't given the sat above him so John just basically wasted 6 months and even worst-case scenario: He wanted to apply to UCs.
My friend went from 1200 to 1580 in 2 months by using khan academy and Collegeboard's guide and QAS past papers
Standardized testing was made for couples such as ACT and College Board to add a platform for application, but also to make money. The truth is, most people are not gifted test takers and it has been proven tests are not a accurate or fair measure for human intelligence or of likes of admission due to humans genetically having skills which aren't catered towards TESTS. They add unexplained anxiety, and for those who aren't prodigies they will need to study for those tests. With what? Test books. Flashcards. And many expensive thinks unprivileged children cannot access thus waving them out. Plus, the SAT and ACT is a measure of general knowledge while students go to study a SPECIFIC subject where they should be tested IN THAT area like UK's A Levels exams, which have a direct reflection on the child's school performance and not just how they comprehend a bunch of practice books. For those who support standardized testing, you are wrong unfortunately, and you don't understand that there are easier methods to go about these.
Tests are a mix of knowledge and of how well you know the test. They aren't all "secret sauce" -- much of them is actually testing what students know. Reading comprehension? Check. Algebra? Check. I teach SAT now but in high school I scored in the 99th % with a book, my bedroom door shut, and 5 or so practice tests in two weekends. That's because I had great public school teachers and a penchant for obscure vocabulary, challenging math problems, and clever ways to figure out answers to questions on multiple choice tests. I never had a tutor. But most kids can't show up and do that. Yes, the "secrets" of the test amount to 70-100 points IMO as a prep tutor. The bigger problem: there is a lack of educational baseline, not just lack of access to test prep. Most colleges look at scores in CONTEXT -- University of California found that they helped identify talented low income students the MOST. About 20% of Stanford admits in 2020 had 1200- 1400 SAT scores. It's certainly not an easy road, but the biggest inequity is much bigger than just a test-- it's the entire education system that's unfair. We don't stand and say "Hey it's unfair. Simone Biles could afford an amazing coach. She doesn't deserve an Olympic Medal" -- No, we look at the raw performance. Education is different and rightly so because it is part "award" and part "opportunity." Likewise, an under-resourced student with talent may eventually outperform a highly resourced student, but not necessarily. That's where things get sticky. At the end of the day tests are a tool and the decision is and always has been up to the colleges more than everyone else. Test or no test, they decide how much it counts, in what context, and in what what.
I was rejected from UChicago (ED), Columbia, Princeton, UCLA, Berkeley, and UCSD.
My grades were good, my extracurriculars list was very competitive, my essays were also well written, my test scores were high... I made such huge sacrifices of time, effort, and money for this whole process for nothing. It made me feel so horrible I don't have words to describe.
Luckily, I'm attending LSE next year, so things did turn out fine at the end.
Alternate title: Why Yale was even more out of reach than I thought.
Can a WOW factor compensate for a C grade?
Not Brooke, but... it depends. First, it depends on where you're applying. In anything but the most competitive colleges, if it's a good WOW, then probably. For the most competitive colleges (probably the top 50ish), then it's going to depend. If it's a single C in Freshman and there's explanatory factors, demonstrated improvement, etc. and a good wow-factor, yes, it can compensate. But the more the grades suffer (more C grades, lower average), the more it impacts the decision. The colleges are looking at your coursework and grades as part of a package to try to tell (a) if you're a good fit for their college and (b) if you are prepared for the college experience. In the competitive colleges, particularly, not being able to pull higher grades in high school classes is seen as an indication that you probably won't be able to do the academic work required at the college level. So, a single C with extenuating circumstances is something you can get around in competitive colleges. A C average is a much, much harder sell.
I hope that helps.
@@EliseLogan wait so what about if you were an A-B student freshman year but went to a C student sophomore year because of COVID.Would that damage your chances of getting in ?
@@aegis8265 for an elite level competitive school? Sadly, probably yes. With the admission rates so low, they're less likely to make allowances. Though, to be truthful, for certain kinds of wow factors, schools will overlook that kind of thing - but those are going to be pretty unusual (like national level awards or major legacy points - or something the school REALLY wants - athletes or specific niches). But that's my opinion, and if Brooke disagrees, I'd take her judgment over mine, as I haven't done college consulting in a few years.
ETA: That's for the highest level competitive schools. The less competitive schools are going to be more likely to make allowances if you pull everything back into line Junior and Senior years, esp. if you have other factors working in your favor.
@@aegis8265 yup
I second Elise's response. I suggest you apply to USC or one of the UCs, though. Don't give up if another school is your dream school nonetheless.
Point taken on standardized tests in terms of access. But even there, the privileged still have an overwhelming advantage because of the ability to pay for expensive test prep courses and even more expensive private tutoring, much of which focuses on tricks to game the test. It is never a level playing field.
Unpopular Opinion- SATs shouldn't be Cancelled.
My Opinion - I think it will be very hard for Homeschool and International students as there is no other way to measure their education system and also a bit hard for US Students too Because (whether nationally or internationally) Schools differ, Some are hard and some are easy. Generally, most people can afford SAT and I think it also gives fee waivers, But if SATs are Cancelled they will focus more on GPA and APs and I would rather take SAT than piss my pants over 18-20 APs, Hell Nah, I can't even afford that sh*t. If we compare by GPAs then students of the school which is harder will get low acceptances and students from easy schools will get high acceptances, If we consider by APs, most can't afford it and most people would certainly not like to give 18 APs. APs aren't available everywhere except 5-6 countries. (In a big country like Russia, there is not a single AP Test Taking Centre that I know of)
Also, If we work so damn hard and students who haven't even taken the sat to get in and not us! Then only three words describe that "WTH?" I.E. John works his a## off for 6 months to get 1480 and the next day this people take a guy who hadn't given the sat above him so John just basically wasted 6 months and even worst-case scenario: He wanted to apply to UCs.
My friend went from 1200 to 1580 in 2 months by using khan academy and Collegeboard's guide and QAS past papers
we live in a society
@You- know-who I never quite understand the "life's not fair" argument to justify unfairness in any realm. That doesn't solve anything and there is no reason why we should not try to level the playing field when it comes to educating our children. The better observation is that life seems to be more fair for some than it is for others. We should simply let it stay that way? Or, perhaps, how about we recognize the inequity and try to do something about it. Otherwise, certain colleges and universities will remain accessible primarily to upper middle class and wealthy white people in a country that in 10-20 years will be majority non-white..
You don’t need expensive test prep or private tutoring to score high. I got a really good score with just the free Khan Academy practice. It’s really a mindset in my opinion.
@@WangMotions Just because something worked for you doesn’t mean it works for other people. It would be great if it did. This is one of the reasons why college admissions is not organic. Lots of kids kick ass on standardized precisely because of expensive test prep, learning tricks, etc. Problem is that colleges cannot distinguish between the student who scored well because she is smart or whether she's just really good at standardized tests or if her parents spent 10 grand on tutors.
More applicants due to many top schools going test optional this past year. More applications + Same (or fewer) number of limited slots for admission = More rejections and lower acceptance rates. This is not rocket science, people.
what a genius
@@sherryte3305 sorry that you needed a 10+ minute video to figure out something that a 9 year old could probably reason out in a few seconds
@@haydenadams4585 lol for real. make it make sense🙌🏻
Word like all these schools going test optional and now you don’t have to show your disciplinary record on your transcript. So that means you have a lot of below average students applying to colleges, that were not doing that a couple years ago.
You forgot to say it makes colleges look better.
god i hope 2022 is better🙏
went 2 for 17
What schools accepted?
went 1 and 2 wl for 11. I feel your pain.
This is just a theory I am suggesting, but also may make some sense concerning the sudden increase and sharp decrease in the 2020 and 2021 applicant pools, respectively.
2020 was probably one of, if not the most concerning year for colleges and universities in regards to their finances. There were so many unknowns in regards to how to handle the pandemic and how the 2020 school year would play out. In an effort to maintain their financial standings, I believe colleges in 2020 accepted far more “borderline” students. I use “borderline” as a term to describe students who were decently strong applicants that just barely satisfied the “minimum requirements” to be considered and admitted to top tier colleges and universities. Why would colleges do this? Students who are on the lower tier of the applicant pool, just barely meeting “minimum requirements,” have the highest chance of enrolling in the university regardless of their financial aid package.
For example, let’s pretend a student applies to USC with a 32 ACT and a 3.9 weighted GPA, with typical extracurriculars, good class rigor, and showing some excellence academically through honors societies and AP awards. Certainly a good applicant, but perhaps not exceptional for typical USC standards. However, through the uncertainty of 2020, if a student had such qualifications, and their EFC (Estimated Family Contribution) was determined that they were able to afford all expenses of the school, in full, with no financial aid, these applicants were accepted. In essence, elite colleges in 2020 perhaps weighed student financial situations and student qualifications equally to admit applicants who could afford the expenses in full. It was, perhaps, an effort by universities to save their butts financially.
But why does this mean 2021 applicants got the short end of the stick? Because colleges admitted so many students in 2020, it stands to reason that acceptance rates in 2021 were going to be heavily decreased to maintain capacity constraints at the colleges and universities. Focus once again shifted to academic performance and the applicants themselves, regardless of their financial situation. Because of this, qualifications for applicants were more strictly adhered to then ever before, and 2021 applicants happened to take the hit.
Again, this is just a theory. Let me know your thoughts :)
That is true. Former admissions people have said that they often will pick the student who can pay full tuition vs. one who can’t. It’s a business we have to remember.
I feel like too many of my peers feel this way so to anyone reading this, what college you go to doesn’t determine you self-worth! Don’t beat yourself up too much over statistics. You’re an individual, not a number.
meanwhile those 'top ten' universities making millions of dollars just from application fee.
Judging by college decision reaction videos on RUclips, the top schools are being spammed by applicants, with some seniors applying to as many as 55 colleges.
I got waitlisted to not one, not two, but THREE Ivy Leagues, (Harvard, Brown, and Dartmouth) and they sent emails of top consideration then just boom rejection. Man so close but so far man I feel robbed of my dreams, Dartmouth was my dream school, man this summer has been the worst.
Do you want a great education or an elite education? Try Grinnell, Pomona, Swarthmore
or Carlton. Get back with me.
If you are REALLY serious, look into the St. Johns Great Books Program!
I think it was pure luck that I got into Princeton this year lmfao
Aye Congrats!
Well done!
stats?
@@nylah.reneee Citizen living abroad (in Canada). Went test optional, 97% overall highschool average. Played 3 varsity sports, volunteered for school and community, Duke of Ed gold and silver awards, wrote essay about a life changing event (mass shooting)
Any advice? I am a rising junior with not much extracurriculars and a couple B’s and Princeton is my dream school. Do u have any tips on how I can get impressive extracurriculars?
Hi!!! I just want to say thank you so so much for your courses and videos! I got into my dream school, Columbia University, because of your help and I’m so grateful 😁 my SAT went up 210 points
Hey I want to know about the application process and whether you did it on your own or you got through any agency
@@tanushreebiswas6166 hey! The application process is lengthily, but I didn’t do it through an agency. All of my friends that did didn’t get into the schools they wanted, but I did do all of my own research, and I just would recommend that you really dig into what your first choice colleges prefer in a candidate.
Do you mind sharing your stats, GPA, and extracurricular activities?
@@vaishnavinayak5917 Each college posts their SAT stats. Really not useful to ask this since they consider each applicant uniquely, meaning having a certain GOA , test score, or ECA will not guarantee you get in,
At this point, I lost all hope and I screwed my chances of getting accepted into any college. I've been battling mental illness for some months now and a relative passed away, so my academic performance dropped significantly. Of course, I'm not writing a pity explanation narrative for the admissions office to read: that would be humiliating, and I know people have it WAY harder and they still excel in everything. As an international student, I'm so scared for 2022, because I know I just screwed the hard work I've been doing during all my academic life. Guess I'll die *inserts jpg*
I am so sorry you are going through mental health struggles but I just wanted to tell you, you are not alone. I have also screwed my chance bc I was too depressed to do extracurriculars and do good in school and I’m abt to be a junior. But I think it is great we made it out alive before we think about college or anything else we first have to be mentally stable and I am sure we will both succeed and end up somewhere great.
Hey, you don't have feel that way. I believe there are certainly colleges that would still accept you. Even if we are in a terrible situation, which is, to be fair, extremely frightening, don't let this bring you down! There are new policies when applying to colleges: you can write a community disruptive essay without wasting any of your prompts and possibly explain what amazing things you've made out of the current situation. You also get the chance to work on some online projects before applying. Make the best out of where you are at at the moment and don't be scared.
I’ll give you a taco when we both homeless on the streets bro
It would be great for you to produce a video on the financial impact to the Tutoring industry of Test optional becoming a standard for colleges, what % of our revenue is at risk and how the industry could pivot to other revenue streams. In our community families spend thousands if not tens of thousands preparing their kids for the SAT / ACT tests over multiple years. Maybe also how you are change the narrative on the value of testing from “It only shows how well you can game the test” : Wealth to “Testing is a valuable way to understand how prepared someone is” : Insight. Or is it like moving deck chairs around on the titanic? Interested on an insiders view - thanks
Absolutely Hamish!
Do you think the admission rates will be even more competitive in 2022?
i think it’ll go at least a little back to normal
It won’t be as bad but it will still be rigorous if test optional
No I think they’ll be slightly less competitive as schools rely more on tests even if 70% are test optional- also fewer gap year applicants
doubt it. class of 2022 won’t have to deal with as many gap students as the class of 2021 did. but it still won’t be as good.
In my country, admission rates are lower (especially the top Unis) because standardized tests / CET's (College Entrance Tests) are unavailable due to the pandemic and they rely primarily on grades in HS. It's really unfair and this is why I'd rather have a CET because it's actually indicative of the students who truly mastered their highschool classes. It's just not right because different schools have different standards of grading. In some schools, you get a 95+ / 4.0 gpa / A+ even if you barely have anything in your head. In others, it's quite the opposite-you can be real smart and prudent but a 90+ would be hard to achieve. This is why I abhor schools with easy standards.
the same thing happens in my country ! schools have different levels of difficulty and usually it's the private and most expensive schools that are easier
@@whisperingdonut Exactly! Although in here, it can be both the private and public schools that are easy. You won't believe how some schools here have ridiculously easy standards and it's making my blood boil lmao. It's straight up unfair because some of these students aren't even academically competent yet they have the highest chance to get into the top Universities just because their schools give out easy A's. Meanwhile, competent students who truly deserve a slot can't get in because their schools are really competitive and don't just give out easy A's-you have to earn them.
At the end of the day, Entrance examinations are for everyone's good. With it, you're able to tell who's the best and who truly mastered their highschool studies.
Moreover, the kids coming from easy, low-standard schools that will get into top universities are ill-prepared and will drastically suffer because the environment is so much different from their old, less complete schools. Unfortunately, on the other hand, deserving students who can *actually* handle these Universities get rejected because their grades don't make the cut (due to higher standards in their respective schools)
There seriously needs to be some sort of educational reform to make all educational institutions in our country more advanced and efficient.
I'm just thankful that one top University in my country takes into account the highschool you came from (this implies that even if you have excellent grades, it won't guarantee you admission which really makes me happy for the students who really deserve a slot). Yet, some students actually have the audacity against this policy lol, saying things like "is is our fault that these are the school we got into?" Yeah, partially. If you wanna get into a top University as much as possible, you also have to consider your highschool. You can't just go into an easy ass Highschool and easily get good grades and expect the top institutions to accept you LMAO.
I'm sorry for the rant, I just wanna vent out.
@Awe Sean I'm from the Philippines. Seriously, there needs to be some sort of thorough academic reform in here to make sure both the education system and the students are more competitive and advanced.
There was this national exam (NCAE) that we took in 9th grade and I easily scored within the 99th+ percentile among 1,000,000+ test takers. I found the exam really easy and didn't even review for it. That really shows how much we're lagging behind in terms of education. Keep in mind these 1,000,000 test takers are now the same students I'm competing for admissions.
To add, look up how low the Philippines scores and performs in examinations conducted by international organizations that also tests and compares other countries. We're embarrassingly ranked at the bottom rung.
I believe in the great, and untapped potential of my country's students (and people) if the government here wasn't so incompetent and corrupted, no doubt we would've been better in a lot, if not, all integral aspects of society.
See but the problem is these test aren’t testing knowledge they are testing how well you know the test. Which in a way hinders a lot more kids. Especially in the Lower income areas. Like my school is Title 1 and we don’t have a lot of things that a school that’s a 5 minute drive away. It becomes unfair. And yes khan academy and books help but a lot of kids don’t learn that way
Unfortunately it’s not only the SAT, the whole education system is like that. In my opinion, colleges should be test optional.
@@elise2068 true
yes, but someone with small opportunities is more likely to study hard and get a good grade, whereas they may never have the chance to participate in any activities. A good grade is better than nothing, and as you said, Khan academy is a great resource for those who are willing to put in the time and increase their chances of getting into a better school.
I’m not saying tests are perfect. Nor am I even saying that they should be required. But I don’t think it’s fair when schools are test blind, when they’re perfectly fine accepting all kinds of other achievements like winning national fencing championships.I’m just saying a lot of the things that edge kids in at these elite schools correlate with wealth, and a lot of them correlate more with wealth than test scores. So at least tests are something you can achieve no matter what your background is. I’m not saying that wealth doesn’t make it easier to achieve on them, but just that you’ve got a chance. I also think colleges look at them in context. Almost 20% of Stanford’s class year had SAT scores under 1400. If you are low income, the bar is not going to be the same as if you are in the 1%. The UC system did a study and found that test scores actually helped identify talented low income students the most for this reason. And it found when you took the test away and used GPA alone, that those metrics were less predictive of student success in low income groups.
@@SupertutorTV Absolutely right 😭😭
I got off the waitlist from NYU, guess I got really lucky.
Edit: I applied as a mechanical engineering major in the Tandon School.
Congrats! Are you an international student? And have you received a scholarship from NYU? Thank you
Be careful what you wish for. No school is worth $75k plus a year and NYU is not generous.
@@gheller2261 Ultimately decided not to go since it was too expensive, attending Cal Poly Pomona.
@@merimsss Student from California, I received no scholarship money, so I had to turn it down since it was too expensive.
@@Ahsoka501st Good move. There is nothing special about NYU with the exception of being in NYC and one really has to know they want to be in NYC. Still, for $75-80k? Nope. You made a smart, mature decision. Good luck to you.
And what about international students with certificates from the cambridge curriculum who want to apply to US colleges, what are their chances of being accepted?
I'm an international student with some certificates, also wanting to know about this
Where're my fellow august SAT gang???
Do you think transfer admissions will end up becoming more competitive in a couple of years due to this??
Is anyone else worried about the SAT dates? What is the chance that there will be no more dates this year?🥺
Oh there’s dates. If there isn’t dates I’m panicking because I studied the heck out of the SAT so I could get into my local honors college
@@apreil4821 don't worry you can got to a private College.
I can't compensate my gpa without SAT, I've been preparing for it a lot and spent more than the exam costs. Those people who wanted to pass in May still didn't pass it in my country. And I was going to pass it in August but there are no available registration even though it is the time for it...
Im freaking scared...
@@태이씨 skip a year and wait?
@@apreil4821 no way!
I agree that tests are more accessible than other factors mentioned. However, there is an undeniable advantage that more privileged students have in these standardized tests as well. Some students from underprivileged household might have to work to support their family which means they likely cant devote as much time to balance school and studying for these tests. Not only that, but a lot of SAT/ACT preparation courses are time consuming as well as expensive and not everyone has access to these “elite” courses that essentially teach you the exam. (Obviously this is less of a problem now if one has access to the internet, but a lot of the online resources don’t compare to having a private tutor like some privileged students can afford).
i mean alot of her job realizes on selling SAT/ACT prep related stuff lol so of course shes gonna be in support of them
Also for international students :/ the SAT and ACT are extremely inaccesible because the fees are sooo much higher than they are in the US. Plus the test centers are also pretty scarce. So as a kid from Latin America myself, the standardized tests do present a challenge, and now that I wasn’t able to take it this year, I don’t know if it will actually be a disadvantage in my college admissions:(
I got rejected from 11 colleges for computer science and was feeling so terrible . Thankfully I got into Umich Engineering (along with 2 more) so that's where I'll be going. But I'm a michigan resident so I feel like I had an easier time but am still thankful to be living in Michigan lol
lmao as a fallen soldier from 2021 with perfect stats and good ECs this is ture
I disagree with your point about tests being available to all students. Those who come from wealthy backgrounds have more access to tutoring and resources. They also have the ability to take the tests as many times as they want. Some are also able to obtain special handicaps like extended time.
“We need to accept that we won’t always make the right decisions, that we’ll screw up royally sometimes - understanding that failure is not the opposite of success, it’s part of success.”some of us we see failing as failure. Have a delightful day sharing some positivity to your side
only 21 but i feel like a boomer cause it seems so awful for you current high schoolers compared to a few years ago.
why am I watching this???
yeah why are you here
@@lacanian1500 idk man I am done with the college admission process
If standardized tests leveled the playing field between rich and poor, the data has yet to prove that conclusion and quite the opposite.
Nothing will level the playing field. But everything besides tests (recommendations -- which are stronger from private schools and small elite high schools generally, grades-- which are prone to inflation and in the times of COVID 19 school from home cheating, activities-- which favor pay to play and obscure sports that not all can afford, essays-- which a Stanford study recently showed correlate with wealth based on subject matter more than test scores do) is just as biased toward privilege, if not more so. That's the problem.
@@brookifyd periodt
@@brookifyd do you know what the history of the SAT is? It was first drafted by a psychometrician who intended to measure the G-factor of pre-college students across the USA. Poor students are products of poor parents, and wealth positively correlates with intelligence.
Damn I hope I’m not screwed for 2023😭
Same dude
Highly Rejective! Too many kids applying to Stanvard. Test Optional Brain Optional
question: Should i talk about getting bullied and how i overcame? or what i learned from it? in my college essay
In my opinion, you should write about school accomplishments. The example you gave them is not school relatives. You can say on your college essay that you have a good GPA, good grades, involved in school clubs, awards, and test scores as well too. No college or university will care about what you went through, they will only care about the effort you put through in school.
@@itz_corbis1784 hm yah makes sense! thank you
@@bibhaspantha1112 don’t listen to the other guy. You do not want to talk about your academics in your college essay. Your transcript already shows that. Your essay should be personal.
@@leoliu5969 i have more than a year left so im just asking for different people's point of view, its alright what your view is... i just need to know what different people find good or bad in the college essay
@@bibhaspantha1112 okay that’s good. I am glad you are a very open-minded person. But I do need to say this, I can be almost 100% sure what the other guy replied was wrong. Personal statement essay is a chance for you to show colleges who you are as a person beyond your transcripts. It would be really wasteful to talk about your academics when your transcripts and teacher recommendations already show your academics. Use the college essay as a chance to tell colleges something unique about yourself.
How are the rates looking for non elite schools?
You can see the rates by looking up the school + common data set
I really like the new blue wallpaper.
Also I noticed it's always like a 60:40 split this year for non test takers and test takers at most schools.
It makes it feel like I wasted so much time and money for an ACT 34 for absolutely nothing.
Turns out that around
9000 students have gotten a 100% (45/45) in IB this year as the results just came out yesterday
read the book “and still we rise” to discover why putting so much emphasis on standardized testing can be dangerous. i know you’re in the business of selling SAT/ACT prep, but i personally believe a shift back to testing won’t benefit a lot of students at less privileged schools. again, that is personal.
Omg Taylor Swift!
I would prefer to bring back standardized testing. I'm saying this as a first generation immigrant.
What the expectation for the next cycle 2022? Is that will happen again?
Do you have any videos on what colleges think about students with bad gpas but stellar SATs?
not really but generally the only colleges that like this profile are private colleges trying to meet budget targets by enrolling kids who can pay full fare
@@brookifyd for profit or non profit too?
I believe GPA is actually the most important factor as a survey from colleges have noted.
But by being the best in other factors including SAT then its possible to get into a more selective school.
With the help of your videos, I got into UCSD
Your videos carried me to 1500 on the SAT! THANK YOU! I got denied from 7/8 colleges I applied to though lol
Damn where’d you get into and get rejected from
Me as a rising sophomore in college- wow! But I wish you all the best on your applications!
Too many students were trying to sneak in without the SAT.
Delusional students
“Sneak in?” The admissions officers know what they’re doing. They wouldn’t let in a completely unqualified applicant-transcript, ECs, etc. can say a lot about a student. Plus, admission rates for T/O applicants were MUCH lower than those with test scores
@@Olivia-uq4ls Transcripts mean nothing these days, high schools across the board are grade inflated.
@@Olivia-uq4ls you missed the point. The students THOUGHT they can sneak in, but they obviously still stood no chance. That’s why the admissions rate dropped. Many stubborn and dilusional applicants thought that could get in without test scores, when in reality they all got rejected
@@WangMotions Ohhhh I see what you mean. That’s a good point, it was such a frustrating admissions cycle
This is making me nervous...
I have to disagree with you on the standardized test point. I don’t see how they can accurately asses a students math and reading comprehension when doing well on theses test requires you to study for the test. Increasingly you see people who are privileged can afford expensive Test prep classes where as a underprivileged student may not have access to these extensive prep courses. Yes anyone can take them but those who are privileged know how to do well.
With an acceptance rate under 8% I'm surprised to see Pomona not on the list?
I think the list was for national universities, not LACs
Great analysis! Do you think there is a possibility that UCs will return to using some sort of test int the future? I know that their plan was to develop an independent test but it seems like their test blind status may be permanent.
The UC system is developing their own standardized test for admission, so until it's ready I believe they will stay test blind
I think it’s funny the plaintiffs in the lawsuit got one test replaced with another. Lol. Not what they wanted.
What do you think will happen with transfer application next year? Can seniors this year have a revenge?
Transferring anywhere that is highly competitive in the next couple years is going to be very difficult. These schools are going to be pressed by all the upperclassmen who took gap years. Transferring to lower ranked schools may be easier. Overall admissions were way down this last year and some less prestigious colleges are fighting to keep enough students on campus to stay afloat.
@@SupertutorTV I got my revenge as a transfer! Heading to Columbia next fall :)
Privilege is not just expensive test preps, extracurricular activities, internships. Privilege is also being able to afford these elite schools. Charging 80k+ tuition and more per year. My take is unless you come from an ultra wealthy family where money grows on the tree, no 4 year college of any kind is worth to in-debt yourself for life. None. This is truly not emphasized enough. Number one priority should be debt free college degree. Period.
the top schools give a shit ton of aid
Many of these colleges offer excellent financial aid - for low income students it is often cheaper to attend a college like Harvard or Stanford than community college. True some students get caught in the middle- they look rich on paper but don’t have cash flow or their parents refuse to contribute if they have the funds. And not all competitive colleges offer enough aid- NYU for example is notorious for under funding many middle class kids- but assuming an elite college means debt if you aren’t rich is a vast oversimplification
@@SupertutorTV by financial aid do you mean loans or scholarships? Because yes in theory a low income student could go to Harvard and take out student loans... but they still have to pay that all off right? So if it’s like free money, then it’s obviously more worth it but if you have to pay that 80k tuition off eventually that is just so not worth it.
@@kaitlyng7850 almost all top 10 colleges are NO LOAN for students with need. These are NOT loans. It's free money.
@@kaitlyng7850 it's pretty much free money, if you can't pay the 80k they'll just pay it off for you
Very helpful information and analysis. Thank you, Brooke.
You're welcome!
sorry third here
Lots of people who had no business applying to top colleges thought that because of "test optional policies" they'd apply -- otherwise they had no chance. (Guess what: You still had no chance.)
There were plenty of alternate ways to assess the data (e.g., interviews conducted in English are a better way of figuring out communicaton skills, AIME qualification, especially before 12th grade, is a better indicator of math ability than an 800 on the SAT, and MIT had plenty of other ways to assess abilities in specific fields).
Second
Studies show standardized tests actually help to identify the really talented disadvantaged students. Low income kids usually don’t have great extra curriculars because they’re helping the family by working and ECs take money. That’s why low income kids usually are not in sports. Even learning how to swim costs money. And SAT/ACT is the one criteria in admissions where you can’t commit fraud (lie). It is very difficult to cheat on those exams. It is the FAIREST part of admissions.
What should. We do now 🤔🤔🤔
Standardized tests help people of a higher socioeconomic status. They only measure a person's intellect the first time they take the test. We all know that they are never going to criticize standardized tests because their job is dependent on the test existing.
Can someone please explain to me what is a gap year? Does it mean that a student has to be accepted by a college first but he wants to take a year off? Would colleges allow students to do that?
Yep they allow especially at ivies you can take a leave of absence
@@akshaymanglani82 Thank you 😊
Lmfao me being college freshman with psat of 840😂
Any data on % of admitted students who did not submit scores from the top schools?
Please ma, I find it hard to flow because of the high speed of your talks
I don't agree that standardized tests even the playing field between the privileged and not so privileged. The privileged still have access to tutors and those huge, costly testing books and are able to pay to take the test over and over until they get the score they want. Their schools are also equipped with more and better services and resources. Also some students, privileged or not, don't test well but are as smart as heck. I think standardized tests don't need to be such a huge determining factor and I'm disappointed you would feed into this.
I am from the Netherlands and want to go to a usa university, but i do the niveau HAVO. Can i go to university’s or do i need a VWO diploma.
I wish there were more considerations regarding covid instead of lowering the acceptance rate (not talking about SATs). I'm an international student and I wasn't as privileged with school being online, with ECAS, etc. Good luck to class of 2022!
why am i here i literally just finished my college applications
This means very low populations at college
Soon state colleges will soon have then-IVY league admission rates
This would be my personal opinion on testing is that there is still a divide whether you believe it or not. The people who do good on these tests on average are the more wealthier families because they have so many resources around them to make sure that their kids get the best score possible. That isn’t the case with the lower class of society. We don’t have those opportunities like you guys do to even learn “basic” concepts. Because the education that we receive sometimes isn’t the best.
i didn't even get rejected from a top university, i got rejected from a normal one
Would someone who has high grades and a low SAT score get a more likelihood of getting admitted than someone with high grades and no standardized test scores?
Me who's graduating high school in a week: : 0
Hello Brooke, do you expect as many people to apply to top schools this year as last year, or do you think the number will be less?
Transfers were badly hit too. SAD
When 2 for 6
That face in the thumbnail says it all...
I'm a college student who finished his associate's degree with high honors and got rejected everywhere except my safety that gave me no financial aid, what's next for me?
Apply to Grinnell. (So what, it's late?) NEVER GIVE UP.
Hello, how can we have you as a consultant for Ivy League applications?
6:43 Lmao the wojak meme
For those of us who are becoming juniors this year, should we still take the SAT, or not?
You should take my hand and be my spouse
Take it and if you don’t like your score dont send it
I still would because it’s not certain if schools will still be test optional when we apply. I know schools like USC will remain test optional when class of ‘23 will apply to college but not much info from other schools.
Take a practice SAT and a practice ACT. You should be able to figure out which one works better for you. Absolutely take one of them and if you are not satisfied with your score, take it again. And perhaps again,, but you do need to prepare. Anyone who tells you not to take either because some schools are test optional doesn't know what they are talking about.
Yes, especially if you are looking for academic scholarships, my college said I didn't need the sat but if I didn't do it I couldn't be considered for academic scholarships
This year i almost got rejected from everywhere. I am either gonna take a gap year re apply or go to a community college. But i am worried about the process becoming eveb more competitive after the gap year. What should i do
Your stats?
Isn’t the SAT a proxy for IQ? In other words, is it possible to increase your SAT scores by say 700 points?
Having a high IQ is really only helpful for pushing from that 1500 to 1600 mark IMO. You can certainly increase your SAT by 700, because the test is predictable and is basically just lists of concepts you need to learn. It’s no different than a class, and you wouldn’t let a class determine your IQ, right? Although IQ does help, no one should use it as an excuse for a low score given the predictability of the SAT
Hi Brooke!! Should current underclassmen be focusing more on standardized testing, or should we be putting a greater focus on a wow factor? Basically, which do you think will have a greater weight on admissions in the upcoming years?
if you’re only a freshman or sophomore you don’t need to be studying for the SAT or ACT. you can focus on a wow factor, good grades, extracurriculars, teacher connections etc
@@AnnaItem wow factor and personal ec project most definitely
If I get a 3.3 gpa in freshman year , then get a 4.58 gpa in sophomore , 4.87 gpa in junior year and 5.01 in senior year , can I still have a chance to go to top college . I also got the sat score of 1540 and took 11 AP class during high school.
Aight time for me to be homeless
First
i wonder how itll be next year
Wow! Awesome!
The test option is a joke it's going to hurt the applicants
Know a girl in my school that got accepted to Harvard, Yale, Vanderbilt, and MIT. She didn’t make the UTK honor roll lol
did she create the covid vaccine or something
@@rishichandu23 lmaoo